San Francisco Chronicle - (Sunday)
What to know when investing in smarthome security
Getting burglarized is one of the most violating experiences that can happen to a homeowner.
The thought of someone rummaging through your things and helping themselves to whatever they like is unsettling, to say the least.
Homeowners often turn to security systems to prevent this from happening to them.
But it’s important to do your research when shopping. The right security system not only protects your home, it can offer you some savings on homeowner’s insurance.
“A security system that connects directly to the police and fire departments will help you get a rebate on your homeowner’s insurance,” said Igor Dubrovsky, owner of Express Service Insurance Agency in San Francisco.
“So it’s important to make sure whatever system you get connects to local emergency services, because not all of them do,” he said. “And the discount on your homeowner’s insurance can be 10 to 15% per year.”
The cost of smarthome systems varies from house to house, but it can be quite significant. Sensors attached to access doors and windows comprise the most basic system.
More sophisticated security systems can include intercoms, video cameras and speakers to interact with people at the front door.
The most advanced ones can even control the house lights and more from a tablet or smartphone.
Telecommunications companies often offer a home security bundle, Dubrovsky said.
“They’ll have a deal for phone, Internet and alarm, and that saves money,” he said.
Compatibility is another issue to be aware of when shopping for smarthome technology.
Not all products are compatible with each other, so it takes some research and time to find the right items for your needs and budget.
Tech savvy buyers may have no problem getting a system to harmonize, while those less technologically inclined might need to hire an outside expert to help them sort out their system.
Dubrovsky added that there’s another tier to smarthome systems — one that can detect leaks and water damage.
Adding this technology to your home also entices insurance companies to provide a discount.
The insurance company likes this innovation, because it can help stop a problem when it’s small, before it becomes an expensive repair.
“Insurance companies are trying to pay out less money, so they’re willing to give out discounts as long as it helps them,” Dubrovsky said.
Smarthome automation also makes a home more accessible. Voicecommand systems that control the lights and lock doors can help make life easier for the elderly or disabled.
The assistive technology can also help increase the resale price of the home itself.
Of course, the Internet being down can render some smarthome features unavailable until connectivity is restored, but it won’t affect a security system connected to local emergency dispatchers, Dubrovsky said.
“Even if the Internet goes down, the link continues to work,” he said.