DIY vs Professional Home Security

Pros of DIY

• Without the installation and activation fees, DIY systems are more affordable.
• There’s also no commitments or contracts. Most Professional companies require a three-year contract.
• Choosing what brand suits your needs best. Professional companies only offer one brand of equipment, normally top of the line.
• Piece together your security system as needed. If you only want cameras now, you can upgrade to a doorbell or key less entry later.
• Install on your schedule and without visitors. You can install your system around your work schedule and don’t have to have any installers in the house.

Cons of DIY

• DIY systems are not graded or held to a quality level. This means that your home insurance may not cover your stolen belongings.
• Once you buy your DIY system, you’re on your own. There is no tech support or equipment replacements if broken.
• There’s a higher risk of doing the installation incorrectly. From camera angle placement to WiFi compatibility or reach, making sure your system covers all bases is up to you.

On average, installing monitored safety and security devices in your home can reduce your homeowner’s insurance up to 20 percent. According to the FBI, a burglary occurs approximately every 15 seconds in the U.S., and homes without security systems are three times more likely to be burglarized than homes that have security systems. Insurance companies understand that a professionally monitored security system adds an extra layer of protection to your home, creating a safer environment for your family. They also know monitored security systems reduce the likelihood your home will be burglarized or suffer costly water or fire damage. That means there’s less chance you’ll file a claim with your insurance company. As a result, your insurance company saves money and they pass that savings on to you.

Pros of a Professional Installation

• The technology is often a little more complex, meaning professional systems provide higher levels of security & reliability e.g. backup signal if your wireless goes down, which ultimately provides for a little more peace of mind than a DIY system
• Most home alarm companies offer options that go above and beyond their basic packages such as battery backups, redundant alerts, pet-immune motion sensors, panic buttons/safety packages for the elderly, fire monitoring, and more. A DIY alarm generally does not offer anything beyond basic wireless home security and – more recently – app functionality.
• Meet the requirements of home insurance companies, meaning your possessions will be covered if a break-in occurs and your system is activated.
• It’s a professional service, so you can benefit from a hands-off approach with professional support. An installer can make sure your equipment is set up correctly, walk you through the ins and outs of your alarm system and make suggestions for how to best secure your home. Many security professionals are on call 24 hours a day just in case anything goes wrong.
• Possible Discounts if you pay for a professional alarm installation, companies might include cost-saving incentives. This is subject to availability, but look out for promotions that will give you more equipment or package upgrades if you pay for an installation.

Cons of a Professional Installation

• Installation fees if a technician has to come out to install your system, it’ll cost you. You can expect to pay up to $300 for this type of service unless there’s a promotion going on.
• They’re not usually portable, meaning once an alarm has been installed inside a property, that’s where it will stay until it’s time to upgrade to a newer system. That’s why DIY systems are often better suited to renters rather than home owners.
• Less control over system setup. When you install a system yourself, you can do everything you want. A technician is going to set it up standard. If you want them to customize everything, make sure to ask or you’ll end up having to do some work yourself despite paying for the service.
• Must schedule an appointment. You’ll save time by not having to install your home security system, but you’ll still have to make time to be home when the technician comes. If you’re busy, this could be a pain since you’ll have to clear your schedule to get your equipment installed.