Are Home Security Systems Worth the Money?
Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night because you heard a strange noise? Did you wonder if someone was breaking into your home? If you are like many people, the fear of a break in has happened to you at least once. But for some unlucky people, this fear can and will become an unfortunate reality.
According to figures from the FBI, there were over 1.7 million actual burglaries in the United States in 2014, and this figure is a decrease of over 10% from the year before. This information makes me wonder if installing a home security system would be a wise idea.
Although there are fewer break-ins than in previous years, I do want to feel safe in my home. But are home security systems worth the money? Here are things I’ve been considering while thinking about whether or not to invest in a home security system.
1. Cost
Initial home security system installation costs can run anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 depending on what type of system you are considering. Although these up-front costs are usually just a one-time cost, you can also expect to pay monthly fees for monitoring on top of the start-up charges.
You will probably end up owning the equipment, but how much the equipment costs depends on the level of monitoring you choose and your unique security needs. If the package you choose is basic, your price tag will be lower. However, if you decide you need continuous monitoring and security patrols, it could cost you considerably more.
You may be able to get somewhat of a discount on your homeowners insurance policy by installing a home security system. Just how much money you could save depends on your policy and the company with which you are insured. Ask your insurance agent to find out before you install your system if you want to be sure.
2. Alarm Reliability
I could continue to spout statistics, but when it comes to reliability, it can be hard to measure. It’s not really feasible to try to come up with figures for the crimes that didn’t happen because the homeowner had a security system installed. In addition, some systems aren’t reliable because law enforcement response times are slow.
f it takes even 5 to 10 minutes for a uniformed office to get to your home, imagine the amount of items that could be taken or damaged in that length of time.
Of course, there are also false alarms to consider. Some police departments reportedly have started charging fines when there are several false alarms at a single residence. In addition, some charge fees for doing a drive-by or taking a walking patrol around your home or neighborhood.
3. Company Reliability
When it comes to reliability you also need to be cautious of companies out to scam you and take your money. If a salesman tries to use scare tactics or pressure to get you to upgrade your system, these could be signs of a scam. There are several agencies you could check with to find out if the company is reliable including the Better Business Bureau.
In addition, asking for their business card, address, phone number, references, and state license could be enough to deter them from bothering you further if they aren’t reputable.
The truth is that some homes with security systems still get broken into. However, there are estimates that the costs of damages and lost property average a few thousand less for these homes than those lacking a security system. Will installing a security system be enough to give you some peace of mind? If so, the cost may still be worth it to you.
Do you feel that home security systems are worth the money? Would you install one?
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We don’t have home security systems. However, we have three dogs that might help to secure our house. Our house has never been broken into and I think it’s because we have dogs and our place is safer compared with others.
I honestly don’t think home security systems are worth the money–unless you have physical security guards standing at your door and monitoring your home on cameras. They’re usually a hassle more than anything else, in my opinion. I have to keep calling the cops on one woman on our street because her house alarm continues to go off. I’d hate not calling during a real burglary, but it’s always an issue with her damn alarm.
I recently learned that my insurance company actually INCREASES our premiums if we have security systems. They can be a fire hazard, as it turns out. Hm.
That’s an interesting perspective for sure. I have always heard that insurance will lower with a security system. Interesting to hear that yours would actually increase.
We are the only house on our block that hasn’t been broken in to since 2009. The alarm system sign in our front yard has almost certainly helped that, so I would say that an alarm system has definitely been worth it for us.
Wow! That’s definitely a testament that having a security system has helped protect your home.