Questions to ask when Interviewing Security Companies

Date: 2010.04.01 | Tags: Security Companies

Making the decision to purchase a home security is an important one. However, shopping around the many different security companies is just as important. If you know what to look for in a home security system and company, you can feel more secure when making your final decision.

Listed below are a few questions that you should ask any potential security companies.

Will my alarm equipment be leased or will I own it?
Many security companies install equipment that is leased and is owned by the company. What that means to you is that if for some reason you cancel your contract with the company, they will need to recover the equipment from your home. If you own the equipment that is being installed, after any contractual obligations are met (if there were any), you can have any security company you wish service and monitor the alarm system.

Is the alarm system being installed a proprietary system?
Several security companies install proprietary alarm systems in their customer’s homes. While some install equipment that can be used by anyone. If a security company installs proprietary equipment, it simply means the equipment is unique to their company and will be useless to other security companies.

What does that mean for you?
If you spend a lot of money on an alarm system installed by a company that only installed proprietary alarm equipment, it can only be used with that company. Let us say for some reason that you choose to sever your relationship with that company because of dissatisfaction with their service or something similar to that; you cannot use the alarm equipment with any other security companies. You own your equipment but cannot use it with any other security company but the installing security company.

Can I have a home security system installed but opt out of having it monitored?
Several security companies will install an alarm system for you even if you decide not to have your new security system monitored. The question is why would you want to opt out of alarm monitoring? Sure, an alarm system alone is a great burglary deterrent, but a monitored home security system is by far the best way to go.

Is the installing security company the same company that will be providing the service?
The best choice for any homeowner would be to use the services of a full-service security company. Full service security companies offer their own sales, installation, alarm monitoring, phone and technical support, and service. Many of the larger home security companies are full service companies and do not subcontract any of these services out to any third-party company.

Does your company provide wireless alarm monitoring?
Many people are deciding to go without a land line in their homes nowadays. Some people are deciding to use VOIP phone service in their home. In cases such as these, cellular radio monitoring would be ideal. Many security companies offer cellular alarm monitoring, and it is definitely worth going with a company that does.