From Dennis Goebel, Vice President, Liberty Mutual Insurance Company
The right home security system provides peace of mind, protects your property, and increases your personal safety. Some systems sound an alarm to alert you of a problem, while others communicate with a company that can contact local police and fire departments. But which type of home security system is best for you? To help you decide, consider the following factors:
- The right features. Every home should have basic smoke and carbon monoxide detectors that are properly tested and in good working order. Burglar alarms can be a bit more complicated, but you can still buy your own motion detector from your local hardware store, or shop online at specialty outlets for more sophisticated alarms.
- The right price. Costs for these systems vary. Do-it-yourself security systems can range from $10 to several hundred dollars. Professionally monitored systems, however, come with a monthly fee in addition to the initial price tag. If you’re on a budget, you can find inexpensive alarm components and pay $50 or less for a monthly monitoring contract. Conversely, high-end systems can cost several thousand dollars, not including the monthly fees. In addition, each fire or carbon monoxide detector can cost you an extra $150 to $225.
- The right company. If you have a professional company install your security system, remember to ask if its employees are trained by a certification company, like ESA’s National Training School. You should also check consumer claims and the company’s work history through organizations like the Better Business Bureau.
- The right time. Once you’ve made your decision, book an installation appointment. Make sure the whole family is present when the company representative explains the system—everyone should learn how it works.
For more on this topic from our partner, Liberty Mutual, click here.
As a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, you are eligible to receive exclusive group savings. For more information and to get a free, no-obligation quote, call 855-440-2153, click here or contact your local agent.
Discounts and savings available where state laws and regulations allow, and may vary by state. To the extent permitted by law, applicants are individually underwritten; not all applicants may qualify.
Coverage underwritten and provided by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and its affiliates, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116. ©2014 Liberty Mutual Group. All rights reserved.
