When evaluating today’s security system options there is one major decision to make that will affect many aspects of the overall security of your home or business: would you rather go with a professional security service company or a DIY home security product? Both have their pros and cons – we will discuss each option below to help you decide which home protection system fits your needs.
Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Home Security Products
Pros:
- Installation: When installing a DIY home security system, the process is usually very simple. Most DIY systems are wireless and come with a simple adhesive backing for attaching to your wall. You will not need any tools or expertise, just simply follow the instructions to set up your sensors and control panel and you will be operational.
- Scheduling and Fees: Since you do not need a tech to install the home security kit there is no wait time and no need to be home waiting on a tech. Additionally, there is no installation fee since you are putting the security system in yourself.
Cons
- Installation: There will be no one on site to ensure your system is set up properly and functioning correctly. Home security experts have the experience of knowing how best to set up a security system for optimal performance. If you have questions or need assistance you will have to rely on calling a customer service number. You will also have to worry about setting off false alarms which can sometimes incur municipal fines and fees from your local police and/or fire dept. Many times municipalities require you to register the alarm system, with a professional security installer they take care of this for you.
- Customer Service: A DIY Security system relies on you, the owner, for troubleshooting. There are support numbers to call but in general, you are the point person for making sure your home security is functioning properly. When thinking about home protection you must be comfortable with your ability to work with the latest security technology if you are going to choose to go the DIY route.
- Hardware: Security systems have benefits in regards to homeowners insurance as well, many times lower rates are available to those properties that have security systems installed. However, with a DIY kit your deduction or claim may be rejected if you cannot prove your system was installed correctly. If your home suffers a break-in or a fire, and the security company claims the system was installed incorrectly, you could find yourself in a tough bind with insurance claims. Having a home security expert handle the install ensures you are covered.
Professional Security Service Company
Pros:
- Expertise: When using a professional home security installation company, you get years of experience, trust and training. You know your alarm system will be installed to the highest industry standards and set up for optimal performance. Security techs are often some of the friendliest and most understanding service people you will meet.
- Warranties: Home Security companies usually guarantee that insurance companies will sign off on their work. This gives you the confidence and peace of mind that if something bad does happen you will not have your insurance company dispute your installation.
- Scaling: With a security company you can easily scale your system to add new technologies or more robust features as needed; your existing relationship ensures that the process will happen quickly and efficiently. With a DIY alarm system it is on you alone to decide what security technology you need to add and how to make that happen.
- Hardware: Most home security companies ensure state-of-the-art hardware and make sure all software is updated as necessary. Your home security provider will keep you apprised of all changes/updates and ensure your system is always performing flawlessly. With a DIY kit, if a software update is missed or something crashes with your wireless, there is limited proactive notification to alert you to the issue.
- Discounts: Often times professional systems will qualify for discounts on homeowners insurance.
- Diagnostic Software: Most professional installation companies also offer monitoring services, where their diagnostic software will proactively monitor your alarm system. The will ensure the system is functioning properly and resolve any issues that can be taken care of proactively.
Cons
- Installation Fees: There is often a one-time fee associated with the installation of your professional security system.
- Schedule: You will have to schedule a time for a tech to come to your home and be there for the meeting.
As you can see, there are advantages and disadvantages to each option when it comes to your home security. Depending on your needs, your confidence in your ability to install a security system and whether or not you prefer to have a company you can rely on a phone call away, either option could work for you.
At Tasco Security, we have a wide variety of products to meet our customers' needs. We offer hard-wired as well as wireless home security options. When you choose Tasco Security, you are choosing a company that will work with you to determine the best security system options for your budget and your lifestyle. We tailor each system we install to the individual customer. Our experienced team has all the training necessary to determine which products and system installment are best for the layout of your home or business. We are happy to assist not only with the installation process but also during your entire experience as our customer. Contact us today to discuss your home security or commercial security needs.
