Security System Installers

[brownsl]

I want to upgrade my security system and I do not want to do it myself. I want a system better than the typical homeowner system. I would like to hire an installer but I am lost on how to find a good company. I do not know anyone that can provide a recommendation. When I look in the phone book I see lots of small companies but I have no idea if they are any good. Does anyone have a recommendation on how to go about finding a good, reputable company? What should I be looking for in a contractor?

Is there a good security forum that has useful information?

I want multiple cameras that I can access via my phone.

 

[BlackSheepSpeedShop]

Yourself. I would not want anyone I do not know to have the knowledge to disable my security system or cameras. You can do it.

 

[senor fozz]

Most security systems are wireless for communication and wired for power. If you want above average you can hardwire a system if you can afford the money or time to do so. If I was to install a security system it would just be using motion detectors, if they are going to break in they will break in no point of wiring every door and window, when the enter the house is when the alarm goes off. You can set up lights to come on when there is movement also. If you want to get fancy cameras are great for proving to the insurance company how much stuff they stole.

Security systems don't stop ****** and grabs keep that in mind. Police don't show up 30 seconds after the alarm goes off, they are just there to get an accurate police report of what happened( so they can charge you false alrams), and dgaf about you or your belongings.

 

[Stuart in MN]

Ask your neighbors, friends and coworkers who they used. Like any occupation there are good installers and some that aren't, but all that matters is finding a good one in your area.

 

[Garage Coffee Roaster]

Call up a few "low voltage" or security contractors and ask for the service department.

Explain your needs to the person to get an read on the company.

These will be the guys that install very small systems and will have multiple job tickets for the day. They will want to get in and get out without milking the job.

Companies to avoid-
-any company that starts with AA.
-Systems for $99 down. (they get you with the monitoring!)
-ones that advertise on signs.

I used to be an Installer/Estimator/Salesperson for a few low voltage contractors.

 

[pattenp]

You can buy good security systems online that have all the bells and whistles. You don't have to go through an installer to get one. If you just don't want to tackle it yourself then that's different. Also do you want a system that is monitored by someone else?

 

[brownsl]

I do not have the time to do the install myself. I have been wanting to upgrade for the last several years and have not gotten around to doing it. So, I have come to the realization that if I want it done I have to get someone to do it for me.

I currently have my system being monitored (ADT) and I am fine with it being monitored but I will likely not stay with ADT.

I do not know anyone else that has a security system for me to ask for recommendations.

I currently have my house and my detached garage hard-wired with a system. When I had my addition built 7 years ago I had them install wiring for cameras. No cameras are yet installed.

 

[AndyL]

We went the other way... An assortment of WiFi cameras, a old PC as a server and a second WiFi router...

My phone app alerts me if something's out of place. I get emailed pics /video of people coming to the door (which then get forwarded to the parents of the nickynicky nine doors artist)

My phone beeps at me when things aren't normal at home... I pop open an app and can see what's up... What more can you ask for?

Must say took some time to get the city to tell me a 'direct' number to 911 dispatch though... Realized on vacation - I wouldn't be talking to anyone who could help me - if I did need to call. But eventually got an IT guy who did give me the 7 digit phone number that gets you to local 911...

 

[spotco2]

The best way is to find a good contractor is to ask around.

You don't have to know people to ask them about who installed their system, what they like or what they don't like about it. The next 20 mom and pop stores or shops you visit, just ask! The worst thing they can say is they don't want to discuss it, but if they like their contractor they will want to show off his work or at least give you his information.