If you have a regular schedule that you adhere to day after day, week after week, you may be an easy target for burglars. While you may think that you’re a target for burglars if you live in a secluded area, that is not always the case. Those who live in populated areas can also be targets.
One couple, after their home was burglarized, was told by neighbors that they saw men on a ladder at the side of the house and thought that they were simply making home repairs because they pulled up with a white van and ladders on top.
Benefits of a Home Security System
One deterrent that can help protect your home and valuables is a security system. Many would-be-burglars won’t bother houses where they can see noticeable signs of a security system or see a sticker saying the home is protected. Why bother targeting a protected home when there are so many that are easier targets?
In addition to protecting your home, a security system can save you money. Likely, your homeowners insurance company will lower your premium if you demonstrate that you have a home security system.
Drawbacks of a Security System
Some people worry that they will accidentally set off the alarm system, but that doesn’t happen often once you’re used to the process of disarming and arming the system.
Another concern is about the recurring expense of a security system. This is a well-founded concern as security systems can cost $30 or more a month for monitoring. There is also the installation fee, which can be hefty. If you have never been burglarized before, paying for home security can seem to be a waste of money.
Other Alternatives
If you don’t want to pay for a security system but you would still like protection, there are other alternatives.
One alternative is to install a security system yourself. Before you dismiss this idea, understand that now there are more do-it-yourself systems available such as SimpliSafe Wireless Security Systems. You install the system yourself, thereby avoiding hefty installation fees Then, the providing company often offers security monitoring for less than other big security companies.
Another alternative is to make your house less attractive to burglars by placing things like large rose bushes in front of the windows to deter burglars, investing in a large dog, using timed lights to create the illusion of being home even when you’re not, etc. However, your best protection will come from a security system.
If you haven’t yet been burglarized, consider yourself lucky. If you have, you know the importance of a good security system. However, before you invest in one, consider all of your alternatives so you make the best decision for both protecting your belongings and your finances.
Meet my dog. We poked it with sticks when it was a puppy. Burglars beware! (Actually, our dog barks at visitors, but is a fat lazy hound otherwise :) ).
When I investigated security systems, self monitoring and paid monitoring both had substantial drawbacks – but the self monitoring in the end did not seem like a reasonable DIY project. Not that monitoring was much better – if the alarm goes off the monitoring company basically calls you. If you’re on vacation, what are you going to do? I guess they’ll call the police. If you’re self monitoring, you just call the police yourself I guess.
In the end, in Canada, I believe there’s two basic types of hardware systems that everyone uses. And one monitoring company that had good reviews, that didn’t have a contract, and still provided the minimum requirements to get your insurance lowered (not all companies may meet that requirement). I’ll skip posting a link, a bit of googling will get you there.
Very well-written article. Home security system is really important. But choosing the right one is very important to maximize its uses and to keep us safe all the time.
Interesting post and I just looked at the SimpliSafe link. Seems doable but I am not sure. Has anyone had any experiences with this service? Even though they make it look easy is it really easy to install?
Good tips. I think it’s smart not to show off anything that might be attractive to thieves. Having your blinds closed or keeping things like the big screen TV away from view of windows is probably a good idea if you live in an area known for theft. I bet if you shop around you can find a reasonably priced security system for your home. Or, like was mentioned you can install one yourself. It’s definitely wise to be proactive when it comes to taking care of your home.
Home security systems may also be the basis for receiving insurance discounts. Excellent recommendation for alternative home security solution. Thanks.