BBB Tips for Selecting an Alarm System for your Home

July 14, 2011 - PRLog -- RALEIGH, N.C. (July 14, 2011) – Although no alarm system will make your home completely burglar-proof, a home security system can reduce your chances of being burglarized and provide peace of mind. Better Business Bureau serving Eastern North Carolina is advising homeowners to do their research when choosing a home security system.

According to an Academic Study of Home and Business Security by Temple University, the Electronic Security Association says that homes without security systems are three times more likely to be broken into than homes with security systems. Losses due to burglary average $400 less in residences with security systems than homes without security systems.

“In 2010, BBB received nearly 25,000 inquiries nationwide from consumers inquiring about alarm systems,” said Toby Barfield, president and CEO of BBB serving Eastern North Carolina. “Before signing a contract, it is important to examine your options, and bbb.org is a great place to start.”
BBB advises consumers to do the following when looking to invest in a home security system:
Choose a professional installer. The best home security system will accommodate your lifestyle and specific valuables you want protected. Carefully consider your security requirements and budget. Deal only with reputable firms and check out the company with BBB first.
Contact at least three companies before selecting an installer. Find out if they are properly licensed in your state and if they screen employees before hiring. Make sure to check with the ESA for a list of member companies throughout the United States who have agreed to abide by the National Code of Ethics.
Ask about all charges up-front. Prices for home security systems will vary, based on the level of protection and type of technology used. Do not forget to factor in the initial installation charge, as well as monthly monitoring charges. Also, talk to your insurance agent, as some systems may qualify you for a discount on homeowner's premiums.
Understand your contract. If your alarm system will be monitored, either by your installing company or by a third-party monitoring center, find out the length of the contract. Typically, monitoring contracts are two to five years in length. Find out what your recourse is if you are not satisfied with the services provided, as well.
Insist that the installer "walk" you through your system. This will prevent false alarms, which are an indicator of the quality of the alarm installation and user education. Ask for a complete inspection of your property and an itemized written estimate. Review the sales contract closely to ensure that you understand exactly what equipment and protection you will be provided.
For additional tips you can trust, visit bbb.org.

About the BBB serving Eastern North Carolina
The Better Business Bureau serving Eastern North Carolina is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit corporation serving 33 counties in Eastern North Carolina. The organization is funded primarily by membership dues from more than 2,900 local businesses and professional firms. The BBB promotes integrity, consumer confidence and business ethics through business self-regulation in the local marketplace.  Services provided by the BBB include, reports on companies and charitable organizations, general monitoring of advertising in the marketplace, dispute resolution services, and consumer/business education programs.  All services are provided at no cost to the public, with the occasional exception of mediation and arbitration. Visit bbb.org.