Questions to Ask When Choosing a Security System/Company

You think of home as your safe haven. However, an unfortunate reality is that your home is not always as safe as you might think. 

Every year, 2.5 million burglaries happen, most of which are home break-ins. But don’t worry, there are things you can do to help protect your family and your assets.  

A big one is to install a professional security system with cameras. The presence of security cameras can be enough to deter a thief looking for an easier target. And if not, cameras can provide the key evidence needed to bring the thief to justice and perhaps even recuperate your stuff. 

To ensure the right protection, let’s look at a few questions you should ask when choosing a security system or company.

What Level of Protection Do You Need?

Is a basic security system enough for you? Nowadays, you can add various features and upgrades to an alarm system to make it easier to use or more efficient. 

When a stranger has forced their way into your home, you want to know that help is on the way quickly. Thus, you may want to install a system with sensors that detect breaking glass or motion inside your home (it works even if you have pets!)

Other extra features include remote access to arm and disarm from a mobile device and hazard detectors for fire or carbon monoxide. 

Does Your Property Have Limitations?

Consider any limitations your property may have. For example, in apartment buildings, you can only have an outdoor security camera if your neighbor’s door is not directly across from yours. This is due to a potential privacy breach. 

In general, you can’t put cameras anywhere that they might be pointing into someone else’s private property. So if your neighbors are close, watch out for their windows when choosing camera locations. 

Wired or Wireless?

As with nearly everything these days, security systems are trending toward the wireless version. People don’t like having a bunch of ugly wires hanging around. Plus, a burglar can easily cut obvious security system wires and evade getting caught on camera. 

However, wireless systems run on batteries that must be changed every few years. A good system will have batteries that can last between 5 - 10 years, so it’s not a huge inconvenience.

Does the Company Offer Monitoring?

When choosing a company, a big question to ask is who monitors the system. Will professionals receive system warnings and call the appropriate authorities as soon as a problem is detected in your home? This is the safest method but requires a monthly payment. 

If you don’t want to pay for professional monitoring, you can do it yourself. You will receive system alerts and notifications, but will need to call for help on your own time. 

Visit NCA to learn more about alarm monitoring services.

Is There a Warranty on the Security System?

Most companies offer warranties on their security systems. If they don’t offer a warranty at all, that’s a red flag. 

However, you should also pay close attention to the details. Some warranties are quite limited and usually non-negotiable. Make sure you’re happy with the terms of the warranty on the system you are considering.

Does the Company Require a Contract?

Some security companies require you to sign a contract with them for a year or even several years. And some of these contracts can be quite limiting. For example, you may not even be allowed to take the equipment with you if you move to a new home!

Since you never know what the future holds, it’s a good idea to choose a company that doesn’t require you to sign a long-term contract. 

Choose NCA alarms for home security

Here at NCA Alarms, we strive to offer the best home protection for an affordable price. You should feel and be safe in your home. A quality security system with qualified professionals behind it is a great way to achieve that.

Reach out to learn more about our alarm systems and security services today!