How to choose an alarm company
Choosing an alarm company can be confusing and the technology complicated. Here are some suggestions:
• Check with friends or neighbors for recommendations on reliable companies.
• Find out how quickly the alarm company will install your system after purchase. See if the company sells systems faster than they can install them.
• Determine how quickly they respond to requests for service after installation. Ask for references from some of their customers who have required service and call and talk to these people.
• Ask about warranties.
• Obtain quotes from at least three different companies.
• Ask the alarm company what screening they do when hiring their alarm installers and salespeople. You want a company that screens for criminal backgrounds/records, etc.
• Call your local police department and ask how long it takes them to respond to a home security system alarm. Don't be surprised if the estimated response time is as long as an hour. Also ask if there are any fines for false alarms.
• Lastly, when comparing prices remember to compare detection coverage and features. Not all alarms are created equal.
