Having a security system installed in your home is one way you can deter burglars from entering it while you are away. A good home security system that is monitored by a professional home security monitoring company can alert you when this happens, giving your family a valuable and unparalleled peace of mind. Just as choosing the right home security system is an important decision, choosing a good home security monitoring company is equally important.
Whether you are buying a new home security system or planning on having an existing alarm monitored, there are plenty of home security monitoring companies to choose from. Not all are created equal, and there are many questions you should ask your potential home security monitoring company before signing any long term commitment with them.
How long has the home security monitoring company been in business?
This is an important question to ask. While new companies definitely deserve to be given a chance, when it comes to home security, you may want to choose an experienced home security monitoring company that has a proven track record and exceptional customer service.
Is the company that is installing my alarm going to be the same company that monitors it?
Chances are if you went with a smaller alarm dealer–no. A home security monitoring center is very expensive to operate and many are required to meet certain standards in order to provide alarm monitoring services. So if you decided to have a local alarm dealer install your alarm, you will want to ask them if they provide the alarm monitoring, or if they subcontract the monitoring out to a third-party alarm monitoring center.
Does the home security monitoring company operate 24 hours per day, 7 days per week?
Most alarm monitoring companies do provide monitoring 365 days a year. That is what makes alarm monitoring such a great service. Your alarm will be monitored no matter what time of the day or night it is, or if it is a weekend or a holiday.
Is the home security monitoring company based in the US or is it outsourced overseas?
This question is important because most companies are in fact outsourcing their alarm monitoring to other countries. While there is certainly nothing wrong with having your alarm monitored somewhere else, having a home security monitoring company that is in another country could have several drawbacks. The main problem most people encounter when using an outsourced home alarm monitoring company is dealing with a language barrier. This for obvious reasons, could be taking a risk with your home security needs.
Does the home security monitoring company have a disaster recovery plan?
In the event of a major power fail or natural disaster, it is important for your alarm monitoring center to have a back-up plan. Their central alarm monitoring station should have a standby generator for short term situations, and a back-up monitoring center in case of any major issues. This will ensure your home alarm system continues being monitored at all times.
Is the home security monitoring station a UL listed central station?
Choosing a UL certified home security monitoring station is a great choice for anyone looking to have their home alarm system monitored. Earning a UL certification proves that the home security monitoring company and staff have proven their ability to offer their customers service that has met high standards.
When it comes to the safety and security of your home and family, you only want the best company out there. That is why it very important to ask as many questions as you may have. This will ensure you make a comfortable and informed decision when choosing a home security monitoring company for your home.