No need to get alarmed in security-system search
Millions of homeowners seek to secure their homes, families and belongings with a home security system. In fact, last year, across the country, the Better Business Bureau received nearly 600,000 inquiries from consumers researching alarm system companies. BBB also received complaints from consumers about less-than-ethical companies attempting to get them to switch their alarm service, often by knocking on the door and claiming to be their current provider offering an “upgrade,” or saying their current alarm service is out of-business or was sold to the door-to-door salesperson’s business.
To ensure the company you choose is credible, the BBB of Greater Houston and South Texas offers the following tips:
Choose a reputable business. The best home security system will accommodate your lifestyle and specific valuables you want protected. Carefully consider your security requirements and budget. You also may get recommendations from your homeowners or renter’s insurance carrier. Deal only with reputable firms and check out the company at BBBHouston.org.
Contact at least three companies before making a selection. Find out if they are properly licensed by checking with the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Private Security Program (www.dps.texas.gov) and ask if the company runs a criminal background checks on employees prior to hiring.
Ask about all charges up front. Prices for home security systems will vary based on the level of protection and type of technology used. Be sure to compare bids on similar systems. Do not forget to factor in the initial installation charge, as well as monthly monitoring fees. Also, talk to your insurance agent; some systems may qualify you for a discount on homeowner’s premiums.
Know your contract. If your alarm system will be monitored, either by your installing company or by a third-party monitoring center, find out the length of the contract. Typically, monitoring contracts are two to five years in length. What is your recourse if you are not satisfied with the services? Can you cancel the contract? What are your rights if your monitoring company is purchased or acquired by another alarm company?
Here are some red flags to watch out for:
High-pressure sales tactics. A reputable seller will give you time to think through the deal and will make an appointment to return at a later date. Take the time to do your research and make an informed decision.
Deals that sound too good to be true. Some sellers might offer an extremely good price for their products or services. The adage holds true that you get what you pay for, and many people have been quickly disappointed when the products didn’t live up to the hype or the company did a shoddy job.
Lack of company identification. Any legitimate salesperson will be able to provide you with positive identification for both themselves and their company. Also beware of sellers who don’t appear to have any ties to the community. Some workers often enter and exit an area quickly, and may not deliver everything promised.
And what happens if you change your mind after the sale? In the United States, the “cooling off” rule is three-days for door-todoor sales.
The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased nonprofit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 87 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews and BBB Wise Giving Reports to help them find trustworthy businesses and charities across North America. For information or to check the reliability of a company and find trustworthy businesses, visit www.bbbhouston.org, which includes our BBB Accredited Business Directory, or call 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is senior director of Investigative Services with the Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas. Send questions regarding homeowner issues to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 West Loop South, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail her at lnapoliello@ bbbhou.org. Include mailing address and phone number on letters and emails.