| Let's assume you've made the decision to invest in a | | | | Following the purchase/installation, sometimes |
| home security system. We'll also assume that tackling | | | | homeowners aren't pleased with the company they |
| the project yourself, is not an option. So let's take a | | | | initially contracted with. Is it possible to simply transfer |
| look at some primary considerations in helping you to | | | | the monitoring service to another company? Or...would |
| select a specialist that can meet your needs. | | | | you be stuck with a system that is not compatible with |
| Comparing home security companies is not as simple | | | | alternative monitoring services? Determine this, ahead |
| as comparing "apples to apples." There are local, as | | | | of making your purchase decision. |
| well as national providers, installers, monitoring | | | | Be certain you get a written, detailed price quote that |
| companies, resellers and some companies that do it all. | | | | includes all aspects of the project. This should include: |
| From a practical standpoint, you're ultimately looking to | | | | equipment, installation, activation and monitoring fees. If |
| have a number of services provided to you. These | | | | a warranty is included, make sure it's clearly |
| services include: consultation, equipment, installation, | | | | addressed. Should the equipment fall out of warranty, |
| monitoring, service and repairs. Rather than piecemeal | | | | who will service it and at what cost? |
| each of these components, most homeowners opt to | | | | A reputable home security provider should be able to |
| choose a large, nationally recognized company that | | | | provide you with a short list of references. Follow up |
| can handle everything. These companies are typically | | | | on those. Get the all-important third party validation that |
| more inclined to protect a reputation which they've | | | | the provider will perform as they suggest they will. |
| spent many years, if not decades, establishing. "After | | | | Last, but not least, budget should certainly be a |
| the sale" service is critical. | | | | consideration in the process. However, you will find that |
| Create a short list of companies that "fit the bill." These | | | | package prices should be reasonably comparable |
| candidates may come from referrals, internet research | | | | amongst the major providers. Don't let a few dollars |
| or even advertisements. Then schedule an | | | | preclude you from selecting the company provided |
| appointment with each of the home security providers. | | | | you with the greatest level of comfort. |
| During the visit, pay special attention to the detail the | | | | Once you've completed your diligence, you should be |
| give towards assessing your property and needs. Are | | | | very confident in your decision. You will feel much |
| they making valid suggestions? Are they trying to | | | | better knowing you've taken the appropriate steps to |
| "oversell" you? These first impressions are often very | | | | protect the well-being of your family and their |
| valuable. | | | | belongings. |