least three companies, and compare their answers to the same questions.
Here is a list of suggested questions, along with why we suggest asking it. If you'd
like just the list of questions to use while you're talking to the security company's
representative, download it here (PDF format).
| Will I own the equipment? |
Most companies will not let you own your system until after a contract period. The longer the contract period the less initial investment for the system but the more you will pay in the end. When you own the system then there is no fear the company monitoring the system will increase prices on you or take your equipment out. |
| Can this system be monitored by another company? |
If the answer is "yes", ask specifically, "is your equipment proprietary?" If the representative answers yes, it's reasonable to be concerned, because, by definition, a proprietary system belongs only to the provider, and could not be monitored by another company. |
| Will I get new or used equipment? |
In the state of Georgia, if a company promises you new equipment (in writing or verbally) and you receive used or refurbished equipment then the transaction is illegal. You can report the company to the Georgia State Better Business Bureau. Be sure to ask if you will be receiving new or used (check the contract , too). New equipment may increase the cost of the system. |
| What is the warranty on the equipment? |
Most manufacturers will offer at least a 90-day warranty, and at least one company has a three-year warranty on their control panel. Be sure to ask, and find out what the typical cost of a service call is. |
| Is there a monitoring contract? |
A monitoring contract can offer some benefits. It can lock in the monitoring rate for a fixed time period (be sure to check the contract for specific details), it will qualify you for a discount on homeowners' insurance with most insurance companies, and in many cases, it provides you with a clear understanding of what the security system provider's responsibilities are. As with any contract, be sure you read it thoroughly, and be wary if the representative tells you any portion of the contract doesn't apply. |
| Where is the monitoring facility? |
Is it local? If not, does the system dial a toll-free number or will long distance charges be incurred whenever an alarm is triggered? Is the facility UL approved? Ask to see a copy of the certificate. If the monitoring is not local, is there a local contact number, and what safeguards are in place to make sure the call from your alarm system will always get through? |
| Do I need a telephone backup system? |
All security systems have a battery back-up that will keep the security system functioning in the event of a local power loss. If the battery runs low, the control panel will alert you, and if the battery is not replaced, the system will contact the monitoring station for help. The type of backup this question addresses is a telephone system back-up. This keeps your system functioning if the phone line is cut, or if bad weather or construction disrupts your telephone service. If you have a medical alert system this can be critical. With these security device in place, the monitoring stations can continue to secure your family and home. Without this security device there is no way any monitoring center can receive notice of a problem, call to check on your family, and call for help. Most top-tier security companies offer this service. They utilize either a cellular connection, digital signal, or radio transmitter. |
| Who will bill me and can I finance my security system? |
Most major system providers will offer several payment options, depending on the cost of the system. Lower-end systems may require complete payment at the time of ordering. A 50% deposit may be required, with the balance due at installation. You may be able to pay the full amount by credit card at the time of installation. You may be able to finance the cost of the system directly with the service provider. Be sure you know whether you system is being monitored by the security company itself or by a dealer licensed to service and sell the equipment. |
