Best Home Security Systems in Chicago

Best Security Companies in Chicago

Our Top Pick

Customized wireless alarm systems and automation solutions that fit your lifestyle.

1-888-287-8132

Best Home Automation

The oldest—and possibly the most trusted—home security provider in the U.S.

1-833-675-9408

Best DIY

DIY, versatile, and ideal for budget-conscious consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I putting my family at risk if I don’t get a home security system?

While it can be scary to think about potential property crime happening to you, the reality is that without a home security system, you’re at risk. Chicago is the 70th safest city in Illinois, which is to say it’s one of the most dangerous places you could live in the state. Property crime occurs 60% more compared with the rest of IL, and 38% more than the national average, so there’s real risk involved, and a home security system is the best way to protect your family.

Will I need a permit for my home security system?

Most local governments will require you to get some kind of permit for your home security system, but this is typically inexpensive and easily done, and will also save you from some hefty fines that can result from loud, unlicensed alarms going off. While the law says that technically you don’t need a permit to install a system, you will require one for using the system you’ve installed, so make sure to check with your local authorities before making any kind of purchase.

How do motion sensors work?

Motion sensors are divided into two categories: active and passive. Active motion sensors emit a continuous signal, which is broken when something crosses its path, triggering an alarm. Passive sensors, on the other hand, are designed to be sensitive to radiation. In their case, they watch for body heat and for sudden, unnatural changes in temperature, which instructs the control panel to set off an alarm. Different systems make use of different amounts of passive and active sensors, so you should be sure to check which are included in your package before you purchase it.

How do wireless cameras actually transmit their data?

Wireless cameras, as opposed to their more standard wired counterparts, work by transmitting their video feed through a radio frequency transmitter. After leaving the camera, the video information goes to a receiver, which is itself usually connected to some kind of storage space: either a hard drive or somewhere in the cloud.

Do I really need to go for a professionally installed system?

Professionally installed systems come with a number of benefits, including the fact that you know that the job has been done correctly. You’ll also know that you have a customer support option available to you in case anything goes wrong. However, professional installations are significantly more expensive, and in most cases, it’s not too difficult to install the system in true DIY fashion: with a drill, a hammer, and a few nails.

What’s a rough guide for how much home security systems cost?

What determines how much a home security system will cost is a mixture of the features you’re looking for, whether or not it needs to be professionally installed, and the extent to which you need ongoing support for the system. A rough rule of thumb is that the most basic systems will cost somewhere around $20/month, but you can expect another few hundred to be added to that figure if you can’t install it on your own, and systems that are equipped with wireless functionality will cost still more.