Home security alarm systems are perhaps one of the best security measures that one can employ to discourage burglars and protect their house. But how much does it cost to own a home security system? The costs are relative to the type and model of the system, the components, the duration of the service agreement, the brand, the additional features, etc. In this article, I will highlight aspects that affect the price of home alarm systems so that you are well-informed.
Period Costs including Equipment and Installation Charges Another main expense of the home security system is the buying of the system and hiring the professionals to install it. They vary from simple, affordable systems that you can install yourself for as low as $200 to complex systems that professional security firms can install for over $2000. Here is a breakdown:
Basic DIY Security Systems DIY is an abbreviation that means “do-it-yourself”. These are cheap home alarms that you can order online or from stores such as Costco, Lowes, Home Depot, Walmart, or Amazon. Next, you can install the sensors and equipment on your own, there are no expensive installation services involved. Components are wireless and connected to a smart hub and an app. Expect to spend $200-$500.
Mid-Range Professionally Installed Systems For complete protection, the mid-range system comes with internal sensors such as motion detectors, door/window sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and control panels always installed by professionals. Hardware along with standard integration ranges from $800 to $1,500.
High-End Home Security Systems Leading home security companies such as ADT, Vivint, Frontpoint, and Protect America provide comprehensive home security packages that include cameras, smart home devices, door reinforcements, and more. These can range from $2,000 to $3,500+ for everything. New installations come with professional installation almost all the time.
Additional Costs to Consider Along with equipment and installation fees, other charges may apply: Along with equipment and installation fees, other charges may apply:
Extended Service Contracts Like any security company, the clients usually sign long-term service contracts, contracts that span over multiple years. Vivint asks for anywhere between 42 and 60 months at $40-$60 per month. The inclusion of a service plan to the DIY options is slightly expensive, ranging between $10 and $30 per month.
Activation, Equipment Replacement, or Repair Fees When you initially receive the equipment, be prepared to pay at least $100 for monitoring activation. Introducing new faulty items or adding components after some time also contributes to the fees.
Smart Home Device Integration Integrating with smart locks, lights, or thermostats is useful in enhancing people’s lives but comes at the expense of costs that rise by $300 or more for equipment alone.
System Monitoring/Response Fees Professional home monitoring that involves having a monitoring center keep an eye on your home and respond to emergencies begins at $15 per month. This is usually expected to be done to qualify for insurance discounts in the future.
Cancellation Fees Leaving the home security contract too early incurs steep cancellation fees of about $400 or the balance outstanding amount.
Aspects That Contribute to the Costs of Systems Several factors determine how much one will spend on the home security system in the long run. Prices fluctuate based on:
Type of Home Larger homes need additional motion sensors, door and window sensors, security cameras, and alarm systems. Multi-level houses also affect costs by raising the amount of money that has to be spent.
Home Construction Materials Wired structures such as solid concrete, stone, and brick affect wireless signals from sensors hence a security provider may recommend a wired system or upgraded equipment.
DIY vs Professional Installation DIY security systems do not have to be paid for by labor, and while they do not have the service and functionality of professionally installed systems, they are cheaper and easier to install.
Contract Length/Monitoring Commitment Refusing a shorter 1 or 2-year monitoring contract will cost you less monthly, but at the same time will cost you more in the case of early contract termination. Month-to-month agreements are somehow more flexible than the others.
Various types of sensors and the quantity required As the number of sensors rises, the initial costs are higher, but the benefits are also calculated by the likelihood of catching an intruder, fire, leakage, or another damaging scenario, and therefore, the addition of more sensors is justified for added security measures.
Smart Home Integration Level Integrating security systems with other smart units gives comforts such as managing lights and temperature but also comes with extra costs of equipment. In the quoting stage, it is crucial to decide which integrations are valuable and which are merely supplementary features.
Alarm Permit Requirements A few cities charge fees for home security alarm permits which can range from $25 to $ 100 on an annual basis. Alarm registration minimizes many false alarms and hence the police consider signals more critically.
Insurance Discounts Security systems that are monitored may afford you the luxury of a lower home insurance premium of between 5% and 20% for more annual savings. Inform providers that you are entitled to documented proof of discount.
As you can observe, home alarm systems vary significantly in terms of equipment, installation fees, contract obligations, additional options, and others. When one is getting a quote option, it is very important to compare all the options carefully and establish which one offers the right amount of protection at an affordable rate that is fit for the defense of homeownership without spending extra on what is not needed.
Conclusion Getting home security can be a daunting task due to the various factors that determine the prices of the security systems. Prices start at a couple hundred dollars for do-it-yourself kits, and up to $3,500+ for full-featured systems with many advanced functions from top manufacturers. Do not be caught off-guard by getting your family’s requirements laid down and comparing quotes that outline one-time installation costs with the other services requiring constant monitoring. This will help you ensure that you can install the right system that will protect your home without having to overspend. Remember the following key pricing factors as you compare different home security packages.
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