Getting an alarm system in your home is an important decision. Home security companies help take the guesswork out of securing a home to its fullest potential. Like other businesses—home security companies are not all the same. There are some really great home security companies out there, but there are also some shady ones too. If you are in the process of choosing a new home security company to provide security services for your home, there are several questions you can ask when interviewing potential home security companies that can help weed out the good from the bad.
Ask potential home security companies how long they have been in business for.
Most of the bigger home security companies have been around for many years. A company that has been around for a while should have reviews and feedback available online or from existing and previous customers. However, you shouldn’t dismiss the use of a newer home security company just because they have not been around for too long. If they have credentials and can provide references, why not give a closer look into this home security company?
Does the home security company have the proper insurance and licensing to do business in your area?
Many home security companies carry the right coverage and have all their licensing up to date, but some do not. It is important to make sure your chosen home security company has both. Even if it can save you money on an alarm installation, never use an uninsured or unlicensed alarm company to do work in your home. Using the services of an unlicensed and uninsured home security company is just asking for trouble later on down the road.
Will the home security company provide a written estimate or proposal for work to be done?
When you are shopping around for a new home security system, you should get a minimum of 3 estimates from potential home security companies. Having a written detailed estimate in front of you can make it easier to compare prices and different services being offered by the individual home security companies.
After I sign the contract, who installs my new home security system?
Some home security companies do their own alarm installations, while others strictly use subcontractors to install alarm systems for them. If you want to know who is going to be installing your home security system—just ask. Almost all home security companies are upfront and will tell you who will be coming out to install your new system..
Who will provide the maintenance and service after the security system is installed in my home?
Batteries get low, wires can sometimes come loose, and general maintenance needs to be performed for home security systems to work to their fullest capabilities. Ask any potential home security companies if they perform maintenance and can provide service if needed. Also inquire about pricing for the average alarm service call and ask if the company provides any warranties or maintenance agreements.
Does the company have their own monitoring center, or do they subcontract their alarm monitoring to a third-party alarm monitoring company?
You want to know who is monitoring your alarm system and what number to call if you should accidentally trip your alarm. Some home security companies do not have their own monitoring center and use one or even several monitoring centers to monitor their customer’s alarm systems. Other home security companies not only own their own monitoring centers, but they also operate them with their own professionally trained staff.
