Lock in safety with home security company tips
Millions of homeowners seek to secure their homes, families, and belongings with a home security system (often called a burglar alarm).
The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas has often received inquiries from people researching security system companies.
The BBB has also received complaints from consumers about lessthan-ethical companies attempting to get them to switch their alarm service.
This is often done by a door-todoor salesman claiming to be the consumer’s current provider and offering an “upgrade” or by saying their current alarm service is out of business or was sold to the door-todoor salesperson’s business.
Make sure the company you choose is credible by following these tips:
• Choose a reputable business. The best home security system will accommodate lifestyle and specific valuables to be protected. Carefully consider security requirements and budget. Consider recommendations from your homeowners insurance agency or renters insurance carrier. Deal only with reputable firms and check out the company with the BBB first at BBBHouston.org.
• Contact at least three companies first and vet carefully. Security companies are licensed in Texas, and you can verify licensing by contacting the Texas Department of Public Safety via their website www.dps.texas.gov or call 512-4242000. Also, ask if the company runs a criminal background check on employees prior to hiring.
• Ask about all charges up front. Prices for home security systems vary based on the level of protection and type of technology used. Compare bids on similar systems and remember to factor in the initial installation charge, as well as monthly monitoring fees. Consult with your insurance agent as some systems may qualify for a discount on homeowners insurance premiums.
• Know the ins and outs of the
contract. If the alarm system will be monitored, either by the installing company or by a third-party monitoring center, find out the length of the contract. What is your recourse if you are not satisfied with the services provided? Can you cancel the contract? What are your rights if your monitoring company is purchased or acquired by another alarm company?
These are the types of questions you need to consider before you obligate yourself to a long-term contract. In the United States, the “cooling off ” rule is three days for doorto-door sales
• Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics. A reputable seller will give you time to think through the deal and will make an appointment to return later. Do not give in to highpressure sales tactics; take time to do your research and make an informed decision.
• Be alert to 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.
• Ask for company ID. 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. Itinerant workers often enter and exit an area quickly and may not deliver everything promised.
Visit www.bbbhouston.org or call 713-868-9500. Leah Napoliello is BBB VP of operations. Send questions to Leah Napoliello, Better Business Bureau, 1333 W Loop South, Ste 1200, Houston, TX 77027, or e-mail lnapoliello@bbbhou.org with address and phone number.