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Important Questions to Ask a Home Security Provider

General

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When you’re shopping for a home security system, there’s a lot to consider.

You want to make sure that the company you choose is reputable and has good customer service. You also want to make sure that your equipment will work well with your home, and that you won’t get locked into a contract.

In this article, we’ll go over some questions you should ask when shopping around for home security providers:

 

Do you offer the latest technology?

A good home security provider will offer the latest technology. The best way to ensure this is by asking your provider questions about their systems and how they keep up with changing technologies. You might ask:

  • What are the most recent technologies your company offers?
  • How do these new technologies benefit me as a consumer?
  • Will my current devices be compatible with the latest products from your company?

 

Are you a local company?

You may think that this is a silly question, but it’s important for many reasons.

Local companies tend to be more responsive to customer service – if you have an issue with your system and need technical support, they can get to you faster.

A local company will know the local laws and regulations better than someone who has only been in business in their area for a few years. This might not seem important now, but when you are building or remodeling your home, there are some things that could affect the security of your property—such as zoning laws regarding fences or hedges—and if you want everything to be done legally and safely then it pays to hire someone who knows what they’re doing!

A local company will know the local ordinance requirements and changes.  In Georgia, many counties and municipalities are hiring companies to administer the false alarm programs.  This requires secondary registration – and fines if not in compliance.

 

What kind of monitoring services do you offer?

The best way to know whether your home security provider can provide the level of monitoring you need is to ask them. Here are some questions to help you get started:

What kind of monitoring services do you offer? In general, there are four different types of monitored services: 24/7 live monitoring (and dispatch) for burglary,  24/7 live monitoring (and dispatch) for fire and carbon monoxide detection, and self-monitoring (you are notified via technology and responsible for contacting emergency services, video monitoring and video self-monitoring (the majority of cameras are self monitored).

 

How much does it cost?

This varies widely depending on the technology in the home, and whether you are locked into a contract.  EMC Security does not have long-term contracts so you are not required to pay off the contract term if you move or circumstances change.   Learn more >>

Some provide equipment with no upfront cost, increasing the monthly service cost.  These contracts tend to cost more because the cost typically never reduces once the free technology is paid for.

Typical questions that complicate things when you sign a contract are:

  • Are my monitoring and equipment fees locked in, or can they increase during my contract term?
  • What equipment fees are locked in, and what can increase?
  • Will the monitoring fee change?
  • What happens to my contract if I cancel it early?  Are there early termination fees?
  • How long is my contract? When does it end?

 

Can I  control my security system through an online or mobile app?

A mobile app is the best way to control your security system from anywhere. With the mobile app, you can arm and disarm, check status of sensors, check history of alerts and monitor your home from anywhere.

 

What about customer service?

Can I talk to someone at your company if I have questions or issues with my system?

Will there be a local security technician that can come to my house in an emergency?

Purchasing the system is just the first step.  The rest is up to you.  Your system should be user-friendly – easy enough to use every day and incorporate into your life.  If you have technical issues, EMC Security has a large group of technicians ready to service your system in your home.  We also have phone technicians to trouble-shoot over the phone and remotely.

 

EMC Security recommends researching a company before committing to service.  Check Google reviews – does the company have a history of poor customer service after the sale?  Ask your neighbors for a recommendation and more.