Looking for a better way to keep yourself, your family, and your home protected from intruders, thieves, and other criminals? Your best line of defense in any situation — no matter whether you live in a dangerous neighborhood or not — is always a quality home security system.
Still, we understand it can be difficult to choose a security system that’s exactly right for you. Therefore, we’ve created this guide to help you find the absolute best security system for your needs and to let you know about options you may not have been aware of. Let’s begin!
Is an Alarm System Something All Homeowners Need?
In a word, yes. While some people may say that all you need are locks on your doors and windows, a home security system offers a comprehensive line of defense against any type of intruder — whether their goal is to harm you and your family or to steal or vandalize your property.
A home security system also allows you to monitor your home while you’re away. With updated smartphone technology, you can monitor your home while gone on vacation or a business trip, and you can even check in while you’re at work, school, or waiting in line at the post office. When you have packages delivered, make sure they’re safe at your doorstep and not stolen before you get home. Watch for your children to arrive home from school safely. Make sure trespassers, possible vandals, or other suspicious activity is recorded.
And finally, have sound peace of mind, knowing that you’re doing everything you can to keep your family and home safe and protected.
Choosing the Ideal Home Security System for Your Home
There are several different types of home security systems on the market. Let’s go over some of the main choices you’ll need to make when shopping for a security system for your home.
Basic Self-Install Systems
Self-installed systems are becoming increasingly popular for home security. These systems can be purchased from a myriad of companies and offer numerous options.
For example, you can get a simplified system that records everyone who comes to your front door, you can get motion sensor lights that send messages to your phone when they’re activated, or you can get a comprehensive system that provides video surveillance at every entrance of your home. The options are limitless.
Keep in mind, however, that self-installation can be complicated, especially if you choose a more advanced system with cameras, wireless connections, feedback, home automation, and more. With that being said, if you’re up for the challenge or are technically inclined, nearly all quality self-install systems come with comprehensive instructions, and you can generally call the company directly if you have specific questions.
More Advanced, Professionally-Installed Systems
More advanced systems can also be installed in your home by professionals. Often, these systems come with the added bonus of providing discounts via your home insurance provider. This isn’t always the case, but some insurance companies will give you discounts if you install a system because it lessens the risk of theft and other damage.
Professional systems may be more expensive, but they usually come with comprehensive monitoring contracts as well. The security company will monitor your home and safety themselves, alerting you and authorities immediately in the event of a security breach.
Other options are available to tailor your security system to your specific needs as well. Check here for the best systems currently on the market.
We understand that homeowners are concerned about maintaining optimal safety for their families, homes, and possessions, and at Carrigan Insurance, we want to help.
For more information about how homeowners insurance can be affected by a new security system or to learn about optional rates for new homeowners insurance policies, contact us today by phone, or stop by our office to see us in person.