There are many advantages for homeowners in pursuing security monitoring services for the safety of their home, as well as their family. A security system that’s monitored 24/7 can also offer homeowners a peace of mind that their closest assets are protected.
Most security monitoring companies utilize computers, special phone lines and professional staff to watch over a home’s security system. In almost all cases with such services, the security monitoring staff will contact the right authorities in case the alarm goes off. This includes an unwarranted breach of home, as well as instances of a fire.
Because these instances are so extreme, and the expense of security monitoring services is not always cheap, it’s imperative to conduct some research before selecting a provider. Below we offer 7 tips to help you choose the right security monitoring company.
Bullet Holes in Security
1. Inquire to the National Burglar and Alarm Association and ask them to offer you the brochure detailing the safety measures for your home security. Also ask them for the list of member organizations in your region.
2. Approach your insurance agent, neighbors, and friends for referrals. They may have benefited from similar security monitoring services in the past and may be able to offer the green light on the best way forward.
3. Call a number of security systems companies on the list given to you by the National Burglar and Alarm Association and those provided by the insurance agent, neighbors and friends. Inquire whether their employees have attained training and certification from the National Burglar and Alarm Association. Additionally, ask these companies whether they have suitable state licenses.
4. Narrow your selections to around three to four security monitoring companies. Next, contact these companies and organize for a representative to visit you when other family members are present. The representative should be conversant with your lifestyle aspects to establish the best components to be used in the security system.
5. While meeting the representative, ask them the duration they have been in business. Also inquire whether the security system company utilizes Underwriters Laboratory equipment and if the monitoring station is UL certified. Also find out whether the security monitoring station is open 24/7 and whether the company has a customer support service that operates round the clock.
6. A few other details to ask are whether or not the security monitoring unit as back-up support in case the main unit experiences power issues. Also inquire whether the monitoring centre contains in-built redundancies for its computer, power and phone lines. In case anything goes wrong, the redundancy will ensure everything is operational.
7. Lastly, ask the representative of the security monitoring company to inspect your home and come up with recommendations and a written quote. It’s also wise to ask why they made the recommendations they did. A good and straightforward explanation is a sure indication that you are dealing with an informed professional and a reliable company.