Having an ADT Home Security put in place is one of the best things that you can do to prevent theft and keep your home safe. But what is the price of a home alarm system? The price can greatly depend on the type of system, what components are included, the service provider, and any extra features. You should be able to budget accordingly after going through this guide that looks at various aspects that determine the cost of home alarm systems.

One-Time Non-operating Costs: Equipment and Installation Costs

The major one-time costs, non-recurring costs of a home alarm system are the equipment and installation costs.

Alarm System Equipment Costs The equipment that will be required in the home alarm system is the main control panel, keypad, sensors and detectors, communication devices, or system. This will cost anything from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars for a system that includes video surveillance and home automation options.

On average, you can expect to pay: 

  • Between $150 and $300 on the main control unit.
  • This cost is likely to range between $30 to $150 for each of the keypads.
  • $15-$100 per sensor or detector.
  • $100 and above for cameras and video recorders.
  • Over $50 for smart home devices that can integrate with your system.

It is also important to add approximately $100 for the wiring that links different parts of the system with the control board.

Installation Cost Besides the cost of the hardware, professional installation also adds to the cost of the system, and this could cost you an extra $300 or more. Some can be installed do it yourself but to get the best out of the system and also to be able to meet the requirements for being given a monitoring contract then you will need to hire a professional.

Recurring Monthly Monitoring Fees Besides the cost of equipment and installation, you will be charged a monthly or annual fee for alarm monitoring services. 

  • Response plan to be taken in case an alarm is activated.
  • Notifications that can be received on your phone.
  • Structural check and verification of the system.
  • Technical support.

The costs of most alarm companies range from $15 to $60 per month for basic monitoring services. This may need entering into a long-term agreement normally for a period of one to three years.

Some of the factors that may influence the cost of the alarm system include factors that impact the overall pricing for your home alarm system needs. 

  • The size and layout of your home: The costs rise with additional rooms and motion detectors.
  • Features and add-ons: Additional features such as cameras, thermostat controls, and smoke detectors will be considered additional expenses. The level of technology also increases and so does the cost.
  • Monitoring services: Selecting the fire/emergency, video, or medical alert options will lead to higher monthly charges.
  • Installation complexity: Homes with complex wiring and parts are more expensive.
  • Equipment brand: Some will offer their services at a higher price than others depending on their reputation.
  • Security company and contracts: Some of the things that should be compared before signing are contract terms, fees for early termination, and company reputation. Some of them are expensive but are highly reliable while some are cheap startup brands that provide simple self-service systems at cheaper monthly fees.
  • Financing options: The definition of spreading the payments allows one to obtain the more powerful system at the start while raising the lifetime costs because of the financing charges/interest.

Costs for Home Alarm Systems The cost of home alarm system installation and a one-year monitoring service ranges from $500 to $1,500. After that, you can anticipate spending $25 to $60 per month on professional monitoring and assistance in the future. High-end smart homes or big properties with many devices and cameras will belong to the higher end.

Estimated price ranges for three different example home alarm setups: 

1. Basic Alarm System

Upfront Equipment and Installation: ranging between $500 and $1,000 Monthly Monitoring: For instance, the cost of a small report might range from $25 to $40.

What's included: During the installation of the security and fire monitoring system, the following elements shall be included: A control panel, 3-5 door/window sensors, 1-2 motion detectors, 1 keypad, and Basic Security/Fire Monitoring. Ideal for small homes or apartments with up to 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.

2. The home alarm systems are priced between low-cost and high-end alarm systems

Upfront Equipment and Installation: These costs range from $1000 to $1500. Monthly Monitoring: $40 to $55

What's included: Security control with 6-8 door/window and motion sensors, 2 keypads, security cameras at entry points as well as home automation features such as a smart thermostat. Ideal for 3-4 bedroom single-family homes.

3. Smart Home Security Systems High End

Upfront Equipment and Installation: $2000+ Monthly Monitoring: Between $50 and $70

What's included: A central controller with battery backup, door and window sensors for all accessible areas including the garage, motion-activated and night vision cameras, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, smart video doorbell, smart lighting and thermostat controllers, and more advanced home automation. Good for large homes with complex security and home automation systems requirements.

How to Reduce Home Alarm System Costs?

While home alarm systems require considerable upfront and ongoing investment, there are ways you can lower your total long-term costs: 

Compare monitoring contracts: Choose companies that provide month-to-month terms rather than annual contracts to avoid early termination fees in the long run.

Opt for DIY installation: If permitted by your carrier. DIY security system brands claim that consumers can save 60% or more than pro installation.

Choose wireless equipment: A wired alarm system also costs more in installation fees. Wireless systems use WiFi and battery-operated detectors which do away with this expense.

Buy home insurance bundled packages: Most insurance providers give an additional 5-20% deduction on the premiums when you include monitored security systems.

Enroll in auto-pay programs: When you sign up for automatic payments you can get anywhere from $2 to $10 off your monthly bills.

Invest in home automation: Enabling smart features allows the system to automatically self-disarm or self-arm when armed on simple triggers such as doors. This helps to reduce false alarms that attract expensive emergency response fees.

The most affordable way to reap peace of mind from a home alarm system while deterring criminals is: to choose a moderately pricey wired system with wireless equipment that you install yourself and employ a professional monitoring service that can provide flexible month-to-month contracts as well as options for minimizing recurring costs. This is a good balance between risk and the affordability of systems for most homeowners.

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