If you are thinking about getting a home security system, you need the pros. Of course when hiring the professionals, you need to know what to expect.
Licensing and Bonding for the Companies
Some of the things that people rarely think about when they are hiring a company to install their home security are the licenses and bonding required.
Just as you would make sure that a contractor is licensed and bonded before you hire them, you need to do the same thing with these companies. Many states have specific requirements for these types of companies.
The biggest requirement for licensing is that the principles of the company and their employees do not have felony convictions.
Some of the other requirements often include related professional experience, U.S. citizenship, minimum age requirements, background checks, fingerprinting, and taking certain tests to show their knowledge.
Some states require licenses in different categories.
For example, in California, companies offering home security installation need to be licensed to sell the alarm systems on the buyer’s premises. They also need to be licensed for the installation, service, repair, monitoring, and response of the systems.
When it comes to bonding, they often need to have surety bonds from insurance companies.
The insurer that offers the bond will verify the home security company. If the company does damage to a customer’s home, or if there are issues, the customer can then file a claim with the bond company.
Having bonded companies working on the installation provides more security for the customer.
Florida and California do not require bonding. It is optional for the installation company. That’s something you will certainly want to consider when you are hiring a company.
Please keep in mind that states have their own requirements when it comes to licensing and bonding, and you will want to look up the rules in your particular state when you are choosing a company for your security installation.
Warranties
One of the other things you will have to ask about when you are choosing your installation company is the warranty.
Different companies may offer different length warranties, and they may cover different aspects of the system. Some might cover the labor, while others only cover the equipment.
You need to understand what the warranty includes, and whether there is an option to buy an extended warranty.
If a company does offer extended warranties, you then need to make sure that the extra expense is worth it for you.
By checking out some reviews of the various companies that are out there, you can start to get a better idea of what they offer when it comes to backing up their equipment and services.
Quote Process
When you are trying to get a quote for the cost of your home security system, contact them. Y can’t simply look at a company’s website and assume that their advertised prices are always going to apply to you.
Your home, and your needs, are unique. You actually have to get in touch with the company to get a true quote.
They need to know the size of your home, the type of security system you are interested in, whether you own the home or you are renting, and a number of other things before they can give you a quote.
Any legitimate company should provide you with a free quote.
It’s always a good idea to check out multiple companies to get your quote. First, narrow down the companies you are considering. Find those that seem like they will be the best fit. Then, you can get your security system with more confidence.
What Services Are Offered?
There are many different security companies out there. Some of them offer different types of service. You will notice that there are many different configurations and options available with different systems.
When choosing a plan, it is important to know exactly what it is you are going to be getting. Let’s look at some of the services that could be included in the installation.
- The Service Plan
- Burglary Alert and Protection
- Fire Monitoring
- Carbon Monoxide Detection
- Video Surveillance
Note that we said these are services that could be included.
In some cases, they will be part of an add-on system, which will increase the cost. Other times, the companies might not even offer all of the services you need. That is why it is so important to take the time to understand what the package you want really provides to you.
How Does the Installation Process Work?
You need to learn all the answers when you talk to the security company. You need to know about the services they provide. You need to know how much it’s all going to cost.
However, you also need to know quite a bit more. You have to think about the installation process and how it is going to affect your life. Let’s look at some of the things you should ask them.
First, can they guarantee that the installation professionals will be at your home on time? You don’t want to set aside time only to have the company keep a schedule like the cable providers. Make sure that they will be there when they say they will be there.
Second, do you have to be there for the entire process? Keep in mind that even if they say you don’t have to be there, it still might be a good idea.
You don’t want to pester the installers with questions the entire time they are there, but if you have questions about your system and how it works, you will want to make sure that they are able to answer them.
How long will the installation process take? Keep in mind that this can vary based on a number of factors.
A wired system is generally going to take longer than a wireless system. A large home will likely take longer than a smaller home.
However, since the company has given you a quote and understands the size of the house, they should be able to give a reasonable estimate as to how long it will take to get everything set up for your property.
Always make sure that the installers run you through the system so you know how to arm and disarm it. You want to know all of the features and functions of the system before they leave.
Do They Have a Risk Free Trial?
Some companies will provide you with a risk free trial, but that’s not the case with all of them.
Those that have to install expensive gear and equipment in your home may not be willing to provide you with a completely risk free trial. However, others will. This is truly situational and depends entirely on the company.
For example, a company called Bluelight Security Inc. which has ADT monitored security and alarm systems does offer a 14-day free trial.
Even if you don’t necessarily see anything on the company’s website about a risk-free trial, it doesn’t hurt to ask. If they tell you that this type of trial is available, then make sure you get that in writing just to be safe.
Security Installation Companies to Consider
There are many companies out there that provide professional installation for your home security system.
Vivint is known for technological innovation with their systems. They provide only wireless security options for your home.
One of the big advantages of this is that they are not as invasive as other types of systems. Some of the systems and packages offered by the company have free installation.
One of the most well-known companies in the field is ADT.
They are the largest and oldest home security company in the country. They sometimes run promotions for free installation as well, which can help you to save some money. These are just some of the options out there though.
There are plenty of other companies to consider including the following:
- AlarmForce
- Protect America
- Protection 1
- Smith Monitoring
- Xfinity
Keep an eye out for other providers in your area that might have systems and packages that will work well for you.
Take Your Time with Research
Don’t make the mistakes of laziness when you choose a company. You need to do your research. You need to compare.
Don’t choose them before you actually know much about them or what they offer. You wouldn’t run out and buy the first vehicle that you saw. You wouldn’t buy a computer without doing some research.
This is your home security that we’re talking about. You have to put in the time to research the companies you are considering.
Know what you are getting. Make sure the companies have a good reputation. Make sure they are licensed and bonded (if required in your state). Check the prices. When you put in the research, you will be much happier, and so will your bank account.