Installing security system could scare away burglars
The holiday season is prime time for burglars. So if you’ll be away from home a lot over the next month, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place to deter would-be intruders. Better yet, consider installing a home security system. alarms. Further, you can install many products yourself, while others will require the help of a professional.
Examine the security measures included in each package. Then evaluate the applicability of each to your particular needs. If you experience frequent power outages, for example, you’ll benefit from a security system that uses a battery backup. And if your family travels frequently, you may want to have a monitoring service handle alerts while you’re away.
Many providers offer extras such as infrared sensors and closed-circuit camera systems that fully monitor your home inside and out. Other popular add-ons include automated lights, video surveillance and intercom systems, water sensors and carbon monoxide monitoring. These features are especially helpful to homeowners who spend a lot of time away from home. many cases, you can recoup a percentage of your security cost through a homeowner insurance credit. The exact discount will vary by insurance company, but such industrywide insurance credits give credence to the efficacy of home security.
When hiring a company to install or monitor your home security system, check to see whether your state requires them to be licensed. Also, check references and get as many referrals as possible. If you do purchase a monitoring subscription, be sure to read the contractual fine print. Details such as the number of monthly alerts routed to the service are included in the contract and can increase costs. False alarms happen, and some cities impose fines for multiple false alarm calls.
Be careful when it comes to door-to-door salespeople and companies that make one-time offers you can purchase that day only. These factors rush your decision-making process, frequently resulting in a negative outcome. Finally, be wary if a company offers a lot of freebies in exchange for your business. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.