Do I really need video surveillance for my home?

San Diego, CA is filled with warm, welcoming neighborhoods where it can seem like crimes such as home invasions only exist in another world. Unfortunately, statistics tell us a completely different story, and as a resident of San Diego, it’s important to learn the facts about crime in your area so you can protect yourself and your home. 

California as a state has lower levels of property crimes, but higher levels of violent crimes when compared to the national average. San Diego in particular has an overall crime rate that’s about 20% lower than the national average. That said, there are still nearly 4,000 burglaries reported every year, making it important to take home security seriously. 

What are the basics of good home security system?

Home security systems contain multiple components, each adding an additional layer of security and protection. There are variances in features included in home security systems, some being more basic than others. In general, a good home security system will include indoor and outdoor cameras, motion sensors, window and door sensors, alarm sensors, and safety features like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. New wireless systems are also equipped with home automation capabilities that enable you to manage and monitor your system remotely. 

What features are most important for a home security system in San Diego?

There are more than 26,000 property crimes reported in San Diego every year. This number includes burglary, theft, and vehicular theft. When considering what to look for in a home security system, features like both indoor and outdoor cameras are a necessity. Door and window sensors that trigger an alarm at any evidence of an intrusion are key to protecting your property. Automated features that allow you to control your system remotely help to keep your San Diego home safe and protected. 

What is alarm monitoring, and is it necessary?

Alarm monitoring is the expedited communication between your home security system, your service provider, and local authorities when necessary. If your home security system picks up on a potential issue, a notification is immediately sent to your central service provider where it’s determined whether the authorities need to be called in for your safety. 

Just having a system in place is enough to deter many criminals. However, in the event that your home falls prey to an invasion or there is an emergency on the premises, it’s alarm monitoring that ensures you get the help you need as quickly as possible.

Should I have professionals install my system or do it myself?

The answer to this depends on the type of home security system you’re interested in, and the level of confidence you have in your own abilities. If you chose a wired security system, you’re going to want to look at having a professional assist with the installation. Wired systems are more complex and require a familiarity with wiring systems and electronics. Wireless systems are simpler because they rely on wireless frequency to operate. Installing a wireless system is as easy as opening the box and reading the instructions.

What should I look for when choosing a professional monitoring provider? 

With so many providers of home security solutions, it’s important to take your time in choosing the one that’s best suited for your needs. It’s always a good idea to start by checking out some online reviews, especially if they’re locally based so you can get a better idea of service in your area. You want to look for a monitoring provider that has a track record of reliability and exceptional customer service. Unless price is not a concern, you’ll also want to compare price points among monitoring providers and what level of service each one provides. 

What is the initial start-up investment for a home security system?

The most expensive part of installing and using a home security system is typically the start up cost. You can expect to pay several hundred dollars to get your home security system up and running. This includes the purchase price of the system, and professional installation if you don’t choose a system that can be easily installed on a DIY basis. Once these initial costs are out of the way, maintaining your home security system typically only involves monthly payments to your service provider.