How to avoid being ripped off by home security companies

There’s nothing worse than being burgled. After all, if there’s one place you need to feel safe and secure it’s your home. Fortunately, home security is relatively inexpensive, and in just about every locality there are specialists that can install alarms systems.

But how do you select the right company? Here’s some great advice on choosing the right company for you.

1. Does the company offer free surveys? Be wary of any company that won’t attend your property and offer a free survey/consultation and quotation. A good company will make constructive suggestions for your home security, and provide your with a free detailed survey & quotation, and certainly not pressure your for a decision on your doorstep.

2. Are they an established local security company? Local companies work hard to develop & preserve their reputation by giving a good service and will gladly supply references when asked. Another tip is to look round your local town, and you will notice security company stickers on external bell housings. His will tell you who the most popular companies in your area are, so you can draw up a shortlist to contact.

3. Is the company a member of any security trade associations? Find out which one and - if you have not heard of them - check online to see if they are an established and reputable association. Beware of companies that belong to minor associations that can be joined easily and at low cost. Most companies will display details of accreditations online, so by searching the Net you will become familiar with the different trade associations.

4. What guarantees do they offer on their equipment? One year is an absolute minimum. What are their response times if something goes wrong - such as the alarm goes off and you can’t turn it off. Also, do they offer maintenance and monitoring services as well.

5. Do they project an aura of professionalism? The representative who does the first visit must seem professional to you. Check their paperwork - does it professional looking or do they write on scrap paper? Are their vehicles clean and sign written ? If you have nay doubts about their professionalism at this stage, then you are unlikely to be happy with the end result.

6. And finally, does the alarm specification that they are quoting you for, match your requirements and lifestyle? Make sure to tell them all about any pets or children and any special requirements you may have. That way they can design a system that’s tailored especially for you. If you feel you have to change to “fit in” with their security system, then get another quote.

If all the above conditions are met, then go with the company you feel most confident in. It’s not always down to price, especially when protecting your greatest and most important investment - your home.

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October 23 2008 | home security | No Comments »

Home Security Cameras: Protect Your Home And Family

Sadly our news today is that crime is on the rise, from home invasions, injuries and death. Comprehending this may not be easy but F.B.I. statistics show that every 15 seconds a burglary occurs in the United States. There is good news to all this, today there is now a large variety of affordable security devices that can be purchased. Together we can fight back.

One installation plan will not be appropriate for every home when we talk about home security systems. To meet the exacting wants of every home or business, security equipment needs to be custom designed. One site may well require access detection, as another requires camera supervision, and yet a further may call for motion-activated floodlights. Let’s take a glance at a few of the several choices on hand.

Home Security Systems are an oft-written about subject, and most readers probably understand the basics of their operations. Wired or Wireless systems are both viable options. If you are renting, the installation of a wireless system may be a better option, since it will do little to no damage to the building, and it can be easily moved with the renter. In an owned residence, a wired security system may be more effective, but it too has it’s advantages and disadvantages. Hole must be drilled to install the wiring system necessary to run from each monitored location to an alarm control panel. Professional installation will insure that the work is done carefully and is well-concealed, but the labor contributes to the high cost of a wired system. Employing several technicians for multiple hours or even days can get expensive, especially considering the current labor rates.

With the basic skills needed to repair a lamp cord you can save quite a bit by doing it yourself. Being able to read the wiring diagrams will allow you to install the system yourself on a budget. Even vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, boats, trailers or campers can be hooked up to your security system. Look into ‘pet friendly’ motion detector options if you have animals; there are many options available. Both a wired and unwired system can be programmed to sound an alarm, connect to a monitoring system, call you on your cell phone, or a perform a customized response.

Surveillance Cameras - are available through a wired and wireless format. They are successful in allowing you to view more than one location if desired. The display capability to view more than one location all on one single screen provides an advantage and time saver. With the fast pace in technology, there are more features offered at better prices all the time. A recent offer provides a color camera with an outdoor motion-activated combination. Trusting people in our homes is not as easy as it used to be so a hidden wireless camera can give the owner a piece of mind. To no one’s surprise, the ability to know what is occurring while we are away with our valuables and children makes this device the most popular.

Home Automation - While shopping for home security this is a range of products in which you would want to look for. A evolution of home security products have developed a new category of home automation devices. It has progressed way beyond wireless garage door openers. Using your home computer, you can now control appliances, cameras, lighting, check your home and save camera video files as well as turn on security lighting or even your outside sprinkler system.

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October 20 2008 | home security | No Comments »

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