The thought of someone breaking into your home while you are sound asleep is a fear that most of us share. But you may be surprised to learn that the majority of residential break-ins occur when no one is home – and often during the middle of the day, not the night. Having a residential security alarm system installed is one of the best ways to protect your home, but the investment is certainly significant.
While the cost of home security alarm systems ranges depending on the size and devices used, it typically costs about $300 to $840 for installation. From there, you will likely have to pay a monthly service fee for the duration of your contract.
This leaves many homeowners wondering whether the cost of a residential security system is worth it – or if there are cheaper alternatives. But when it comes to protecting your home and other valuable assets, there are many reasons why getting a security system is worth the money. Let’s discuss some of the big ones.
Table of Contents
1. Protecting Your Family and Property is Invaluable
Let’s start with the most obvious reason to invest in a great residential security alarm system: protecting your family and your property. While some break-ins are random, it’s estimated that about 72% of burglars scope out a neighborhood for several days to find the best targets.
If a home seems unoccupied during similar hours every day or there are signs the residents are out of town (such as a full mailbox), this could be an invitation for a break-in. However, signs that a security system has been installed will deter most burglars immediately.
Recent research found that 80% of burglars admitted to looking for signs of a home security alarm system before breaking in. If they saw visible signs, such as surveillance cameras or smart locks on the doors, most of them looked for a new target. Significantly lowering the risk of a home break-in is one of the strongest arguments as to why the investment is worth it.
2. Added Features are Worth the Investment
There are many types of home security alarm systems on the market. Some are simple and super easy to install on your own. However, there are many disadvantages to a DIY alarm system compared to a more advanced, professionally installed security alarm system.
For one, if your alarm system is installed by a security provider, they will also provide monitoring amenities through your service contract. This gives you access to additional features that are incredibly beneficial, like preventative maintenance programs, automatic system upgrades, and 24/7 customer service.
Plus, home security alarm companies often offer top-tier technology that can be added to your system. These enhanced devices provide even greater levels of protection, with cutting-edge technology like:
- Automatic arming and disarming schedules
- Real time notifications to your mobile phone
- Open and close reporting for all entry points
- Remote system controls
These features make the system much more robust and beneficial to the security of your home.
3. Lower the Cost of Your Home Insurance
If you are still unsure if you can afford the cost of a home security system, you should note that you may be able to cut other costs. Some homeowners’ insurance policies offer significant discounts if a residential security alarm system is installed.
Further, the more advanced your security alarm system is, the higher your discount rate could be. This is dependent on numerous factors, such as the crime rate of your neighborhood or any past incidents involving break-ins. Be sure to contact your insurance company ahead of time to see if your system would qualify.
4. Home Security Alarms Do More than Detect Break-Ins
Residential security alarm systems are far more versatile than you may think. Modern systems monitor multiple aspects related to the safety of your home and its inhabitants beyond just unwanted visitors.
For example, your security system can also be integrated with a fire alarm and carbon monoxide detection solution. You can even opt to receive real-time notifications on your phone if any alarms go off.
Professional security alarm systems will also include panic buttons that will get you connected with emergency services. This includes medical assistance and fire departments that can be sent to your home at a moment’s notice.
Over to You
Investing in a quality alarm system will give you the peace of mind that your home and loved ones are being protected at all times – even when you aren’t there.