Security and Alarm Systems Blog

There are too many Security Packages to choose from. A Full security system for only $99, What’s the catch? Well, you are right to be suspicious because there is a catch.
Security Package Deals
A $99 system is just a base package which consists of enough equipment to secure a one-bedroom apartment with only 2 windows. Any home beyond this size will require much more equipment for proper security. A good company will not let a house be secured with less than what it needs. For example, if even one door or window is not secured, then an intruder can enter the house without alarming the system. So, a responsible company will call these “deals” exactly what they are, a “Basic Package.”
Added Costs to the $99 Security System
As you probably suspected, there are added costs to these “Deals” in the form of over-priced and long-term monitoring contracts. The worst part of the deal is usually not the over-priced monitoring, but the lack of quality in the Security Installation coupled with the lack of quality in the follow-up or Service. After signing a 3 or 4 year contract with a Security provider, you are now subject to their service, for better or worse. Many leading security companies offer great deals, but are a headache to deal with after the ink meets the contract.
Discounted Security = Discounted Equipment
When you buy a car, you have many expectations attached to the price you pay. If you pay top-dollar for a BMW, you expect it to run smooth, be safe, and that the dealer provides stellar service. However, if you buy a used 1994 Geo Metro, your expectations are much different. The reliability won’t be there, and service is nonexistent.
The same holds true in the Security industry. You can make a big mistake by not properly researching the service history of your Security Company before committing to a long-term contract. If you have a discount security system, don’t be discouraged. Contract end. And even the federal government with it’s trillion-dollar budget had discount security systems in many federal buildings. Security companies of many different levels of quality offer their security under GSA Contract services.

In the turmoil of today’s economy, it’s important to get the most out of every dollar, especially as it relates to security. Crime increases in poor economic times. This blog entry is meant to offer some ways to gain the most out of your partnership with your security company.
Technology
New Security Technology comes out every day, and sometimes you can spend $300 to install something that will save you $400 over the next year. Also, sometimes the technology you needed was not out when your system was installed, but now it is. If your system has an inconvenience that bothers you, call your Alarm Company and ask them if an affordable solution is available. If they say no, call their competitor.
Integration
I’ve mentioned it before, but you can now add fire alarm, door access and intercom components into an existing security system panel. This can improve your Security while coming under-budget on the project.
Referral Deals
Any company is happy to accept referral clients, and it is only fair that you get something in return when you refer a customer. You can get a free month of monitoring or maybe a credit for and upgrade.
Keep your Security Company to their Agreement
You paid for the system, and you pay every month for your monitoring and/or service, so make sure you are getting everything you pay for. If your system has a problem and needs service, call your Alarm Company and ask if your system is still under warranty or if the problem is due to faulty equipment.