Stand-Alone Home Security, not Monitored

[38Chevy454]

I am going to be retiring, and moving. Currently building a new house and of course will have a big detached garage.

My question is about home security. The builder had me meet with a company that does all the security/entertainment/lifestyle type stuff, and of course with a monitoring program for $40-60/month. F*** that monthly fee BS, I don't want any of that.

My question is what types of home security stuff should I put in while construction going on, that can be stand-alone? I have three big dogs that are the best part of my security plan. I don't need the smoke detectors connected to a monitoring system that per the sales pitch: also cuts power to the water heater and furnace while at the same time contacts fire dept. They offer all the internet connected thermostat and garage door opening or closing if you leave it open. They also put all the wiring for the sensors on doors and windows inside the walls when construction is going on.

I will be installing the Liftmaster garage door openers and I know they have capability for internet connection I believe. Also thermostats can be internet connected. None of this requires the monitoring BS.

If you were in my position, what would you do for the security aspect? Should I put the sensors and other stuff even if I am not going to go with any type monitored security system?

Secondary question, related to the internet side of things, do any of the internet connected items like thermostat or other pieces need special equipment beyond wireless?

Thanks for any advice, now is the time for me to make these decisions.

 

[CoogarXR]

I know my parents house came with an ADT wired system. It still functioned as a burglar alarm (sensors all worked, etc) even without ever activating the "monitoring" contract.

 

[Bluedodge]

Are you in a high crime area?
Are you building in an urban or rural area?
Are you in an HOA?
Gated community or open access?
How close are your new neighbors?
Do all your entry points face a lit street or darkened alley?
Do you want notification once a person is inside your abode, or do you want to build a fortress so non-invited people cannot access your abode?

 

[CJ7VFR]

I know my parents house came with an ADT wired system. It still functioned as a burglar alarm (sensors all worked, etc) even without ever activating the "monitoring" contract.

I have the same basic thing in the house that my wife and I bought 7 years ago, except our alarm system is by Vector. As you said, everything works, and every single window and door is wired up and can be armed by turning the alarm on and using it as a stand alone system.

The previous owner of the house worked for Vector, and the three monitors/key pads that are installed let you know if a window or door is open, and which one it is. The previous owner named every single window and door with a unique name so you know which ones are open.

We don't pay for the monitoring for it though. After we moved some guy from Vector came to the house, unannounced, and told us that we "had to" sign up for monitoring with them. I asked him why did we "have to"? We had been living in the house for almost a year when he showed up, and in all that time we had been using the system as a stand alone alarm system.

He was trying really hard to sell us the monitoring, but I refused, and said to give me his card, and that I would call up the corporate office of Vector, give them his name, and tell them what he was attempting to do, and to find out if he was telling the truth or not.

Funny thing is, he left without giving me his card......and we still just use the alarm as a stand alone unit 7 years later....

So to answer the OP's question, yes, you can get a stand alone burglar alarm system for your house that you can control, and uses the loud alarms to alert people of a break in, without having to pay someone to monitor the system remotely.

With todays technology, there are systems out there that can alert you to a break in via your smart phone, and you can also get cameras that you can view remotely on your phone as well, so you can see if someone is there.

Jim

 

[kwschumm]

Regarding monitoring, in order to get an insurance discount some insurance companies, including mine, require you to sign a statement each year that indicates the alarm is monitored and provide info on account numbers and the monitoring company.

There are also monitoring companies that are less than $10/month.

 

[38Chevy454]

Some additional info. Home is in a nice area, not a high crime problem. No HOA, just a group of homes on a dead end street, out in the country a bit, 2-3 acres for most of the lots. I plan to be here many years, no more moves.

My question is more should I actually put the stuff in for security system now? Like I said, three big dogs is my current monitoring system. Followed up by my insurance company Glock, Ruger, Smith and Wesson.

The security company the builder set up does the install for free, then you are on the monitoring contract hook for 36 months.

 

[troy5118]

If you have wifi and want something simple get a Nest camera. I have one in my detached shop and it notifies me if anything crosses its path. I can pull it up on the app live and even talk through it. You don't have to pay a monthly fee but the offer a service if you want to record 27/7 to the cloud.

 

[unslow1]

I installed mine long after the build. There are several wireless systems. After my place was broken into several years ago the insurance company gave me a discount. It was roughly half the price of the system and monitoring fees. I have ADT and it's about $25 a month. You can install an un-monitored system set up to call you or a different # if tripped. Having a camera you can watch remotely is pretty nice.

 

[kTHREE]

Don't worry about the actual control or function right now, you have all the time in the world to decide that.

Just make sure you get a home run of, 2 pair 22 gauge, to every door, window, garage door, and stem a few out for motion in critical areas.
And I say two pair because someone/somewhere during the build will hit your wire, this gives you a better chance of getting a working circuit at the end.

Wireless is for retrofit and headaches.

 

[Stuart in MN]

I don't need the smoke detectors connected to a monitoring system that per the sales pitch:

Personally, I think this is a lot more important than the security aspect. I'm biased, as my sister and her husband died in a house fire; if they had had a monitored smoke alarm maybe they would be alive today.

Getting back to the security aspect, in these discussions people always bring up big dogs and big guns, but neither one will do you any good if you're not home and you've brought your dogs with you. I've had a monitored security system in my house for 30+ years and it's done it's job more than once when there have been attempted breakins. I have sensors on the doors of the house and garage, plus motion detectors in selected areas that cover all the first floor if someone were to come in through a window. Glass break detectors are another option, but in my case the motion detectors do the same thing and were easier and simpler than putting sensors on every window (I have a lot of windows.)

While you're at it, having monitored smoke alarms in the house as mentioned above, a heat sensor in the garage (garages aren't the best place for smoke alarms as they can be fooled by car exhaust or dust), CO sensors, floor flood sensors in case the washer breaks down, a low temp sensor if you're in a cold part of the country and the furnace breaks down are all worthwhile additions.

These days, video cameras are often included as well. If you go that route make sure they're high definition, and also allow for low light conditions - a blurry and dark picture won't help much in identifying a burglar. Another personal opinion here...I don't think they are as important as the other sensors, for the most part they just give you a picture of some guy walking out the door with your valuables, and don't do much to deter or prevent the crime.

Check around for monitoring services. I pay about half the amount you were quoted, and have been satisfied with them. I went with a local company that's actually only a few blocks from my house; I'm more comfortable with the idea they are familiar with the neighborhood, as opposed to the big companies like ADT that take calls in a service center in some other state.

 

[Falcon67]

As above - No monitoring is worthless IMHO. There are probably several local companies that will do monitoring for way less than the "big" names like Vivint, ADT, etc. We are on Vivint and would have moved to a local company but Vivint made it cheap when we threatened to pull out. Bird in the hand kinda thing. Their stuff works well enough.

 

[Trey T]

I highly recommend wired alarm system to monitor doors and windows status, glass break sensors in every room (first floor only), and add three 120db+ siren (back and 2 sides) for neighbors to hear. Get a system allow you to arm/disarm via your phone.

Install security cameras, use anti-vandalism dome cameras, at about 5-8' from ground w/ CAT5/6 cables.

That's it!

 

[Stuart in MN]

add three 120db+ siren (back and 2 sides) for neighbors to hear.

I forgot to mention the sirens in my earlier post, I agree you need them too. Both so the neighbors can hear, and also to drive the burglars out. I'm pretty sure that saved me some years back when someone broke into my garage at 4am - they kicked in the side door, but were in there only long enough to open the overhead door before they bailed out and nothing was taken. The siren I have installed in there is painfully loud, it would take a determined burglar to hang around in there more than a few seconds without hearing protection.

 

[kwschumm]

IMO a good system would allow self-monitoring. Have it call/text/email you when something is awry.

 

[vtcat]

I'm using ISmartAlarm,you need WIFI and a smartphone.

 

[CJ7VFR]

...My question is more should I actually put the stuff in for security system now? Like I said, three big dogs is my current monitoring system. Followed up by my insurance company Glock, Ruger, Smith and Wesson.

The security company the builder set up does the install for free, then you are on the monitoring contract hook for 36 months.

Running the wires now would be a good idea, even if you never actually use them. It will be easier with everything opened up versus having to try to fish wires thru wall cavities and making holes everywhere for the wires once the walls are finished.

The security company will put the wires in for free now because you will have to sign a contract for their monitoring system for the house. That is how they will make up their money on the free install.

You could ask them if they could install the wires now, for a fee, and then sometime in the future if you decide to have your home monitored, then you would get in touch with them at that point.

I have a feeling though, that most security places will not install the wires, even for a fee, unless you are going to go with their monitoring right away. But it can't hurt to ask!

Jim

 

[My Old Tools]

Pay an electrician to install the wires and the magnetic switches at each door and window. After that you can decide what to do with them, if anything. It's just twisted pair wire and 3/8" holes for the switches. It shouldn't cost much to have it done while the walls are open and before the trim is in.

 

[orangeblood]

photocell Dusk to Dawn exterior LED lights around the doors / windows. A very economical deterrent to night time criminals. It may not be the only thing you'll need but a starting point that is very effective.

 

[nut_buster2017]

Installing the cabling and sensors or other devices future proofs in the event you or the next owner decides these become necessary.

 

[rlitman]

...My question is about home security. The builder had me meet with a company that does all the security/entertainment/lifestyle type stuff, and of course with a monitoring program for $40-60/month. F*** that monthly fee BS, I don't want any of that. ...

The high monthly monitoring on a monthly contract is because the system costs money to install. There is no such thing as a free alarm system. Either you pay for it up front, or you "finance" it through a monitoring charge.

 

[Walter_TA]

I use Smartthings runs on Z-wave sensors that are wireless so there is no problem for install. Put a few motion sensors that stick to the wall you are done. You can have the system open the doors to the garage when you get home. It will arm when your phone goes away from the house, and disarm when it comes back. No monthly fee. You can get sirens or control lights if there is an alarm. They have connected smoke alarms that will send a text or have the phone app alert you if they trigger. 100$ bucks plus sensors. You do need the internet.

 

[theoldwizard1]

Security DURING a build is very difficult. About the only thing I can suggest is solar powered dusk to dawn lights on top of 20' tall poles. You would need at least 4 to cover most of the build site, maybe more.

Contractor take or lock up their tools. This does not mean that people are not going to help themselves to your material. If you are concerned during this phase, buy a used camper and move out there with the dogs.

Z-wave sounds like it is the way to go once complete. If you are planning on an exterior intruder flashing light plan on having adequate battery power for at least an hour and mount it where it can not be easily be broken by a rock.

 

[hdmark80]

Buy a nest thermostat and their smoke/fire/co2 alarms. If you have both if there is a co2 leak it will automatically shut off your furnace. Also if one alarm goes off they will all go off and tell you which alarm set off the system, basement, kitchen, bedroom etc. They're expensive but the ring floodlights with built-in cameras are in my shopping list.

 

[38Chevy454]

Thanks to all for the input. I think I will go ahead and just have the sensors wiring put in, by the electrician or myself. I'll figure out how much if the contract company might do for a flat fee, if that is an option.

 

[jdieter]

Most thieves knock on the front door before breaking in. Barking dogs are good as well as a few cameras and plenty of signage is a big deterrent. I'm self monitored with a DSC panel the peripherals are pretty much generic, have both wireless and wired. The disadvantage to wireless is battery replacement every 3-4 years(although they recommend yearly). If I was building new as you are I would go all wired. Check with you local first responder and see how they handle nuisance trips, if they don't fine you after a certain number maybe a phone dialer is they way to go. Make sure you're setup with cell phone capability to arm, disarm and monitor trip locations.

 

[Makoto]

install a system that just doesn't link up to anything except maybe something to alert you. bad guys dont know it isn't calling the cops.

 

[Trey T]

put the alarm controller at a height where you have to use a ladder.

 

[jfitz]

I have a new Liftmaster 8500 with their gateway box connected to my home network. With their app you can have your smart phone open/close the door as well as send you alerts if the door is being opened. Now I am a tech guy so I have a NAS (Network attached storage) device, acts like a little server with hard drives. It has four camera licenses which I have bought Foscam brand cameras, 2 inside, 2 outside. They are set for motion and then will record for a set amount of time. I can also have an alert sent to my phone. One time expense, no monthly fee. There is also software from the camera people that you can use

 

[schmitty8225]

I just bought Arlo and am happy with it so far. 4 Cameras completely wireless and weather resistant. It was $600 for all of it and it includes video logging for 7 days for free and up to 5 cameras. If you go with more cameras and longer video logging its $99 a year.

 

[nicholam77]

I use Smartthings runs on Z-wave sensors that are wireless so there is no problem for install. Put a few motion sensors that stick to the wall you are done. You can have the system open the doors to the garage when you get home. It will arm when your phone goes away from the house, and disarm when it comes back. No monthly fee. You can get sirens or control lights if there is an alarm. They have connected smoke alarms that will send a text or have the phone app alert you if they trigger. 100$ bucks plus sensors. You do need the internet.

I have smartthings v2 hub and am also in the process of building my own z-wave security system. It will give me some extra peace of mind but I don't think it's a complete replacement for a true monitored system.

I have two big problems with it. One is lack of offline operation. Because the hub needs an internet connection to process a lot of the commands, any internet down-time and your alarm system won't work. Same if someone cuts your internet connection. Same during a power outage. Or if Samsung issues a scheduled firmware update. Etc.

Second is lack of entry and exit delays in the built in Smart Home Monitor app. This is crucial if a siren is in the mix. Yes there are workarounds with third party smartapps, rule engines, and device type handlers, but I wish Samsung added in a few extra thoughtful features to their own offering. A security system shouldn't be something that requires a lot of fussing with to get it working correctly and reliably.

But I do like that it's wireless and has no monthly fee

 

[cubix]

I use Arlo for Home Security. It records in HD quality so it gives you the perfect view. It's also motion sensor and has night vision which comes in handy for burglar attacks. You can connect it to your smartphone or PC so get alerted right away if ever motion is detected.

 

[6768rogues]

Monitoring is not required. You could still buy a system with a dialer so that if it is triggered when you are not home it would call your cell phone or perhaps a neighbor's phone. It will call whatever number it is programmed to call. I know that if I am away and my phone received a call that something was happening, the sheriff would not mind my call. The monitoring company receives the call in another distant city, and then has a number to call your 911 system to report it. There is no reason you can't do that yourself.
All 911 centers have another number to receive out of area calls.

 

[CraigStu]

Wires? What wires? I installed a Simplisafe system 3 yrs ago and am quite satisfied. It's all wireless except the main box does need 120V. I got out the floor plans for the house, read through the details of how each sensor worked and decided what sensors I wanted and where to put them. Each sensor attaches to the wall w/ 'Command' tape or screws. No monitoring if you don't want it or there are levels. mine is $25/month. I get a text every time the system is turned on or off or if an alarm sounds. I also get a call if the alarm sounds and I can decide if I want them to call the police or not.

 

[Ray-CA]

I haven't read this entire topic and apologize if this has already be mentioned, but have you thought about a company like SimpliSafe? (http://simplisafe.com)

Wireless, do it yourself install and you only pay for monitoring if you want it. For example, you're going on vacation for 2-weeks in August, you pay for a single month of monitoring. I'm currently looking at them for our home and detached garage.

In our prior home we had a company come in and pre-wire for a standard security system. Doors, windows, keypad, panic buttons and sirens while the home was framed but hadn't been dry walled yet. Then, when money freed up, we had come in and install the sensors etc. It was not a monitored system but had an internal and external LOUD siren.

Good luck,

Ray

 

[chase237]

I'm another wireless user, although not Simplisafe. I did it all through alarmgrid.com. I have the Honeywell Lyric controller with 10 doors, including the shed, motions, glass breaks, leak detection sensors, and a few other home automation gadgets. It's z-wave compatible so eventually, lights, cameras and thermostat can also be added when I get around to it.

It communicates via cellular and although I don't have a contract for monitoring I do pay $25 month, costs vary, I have a big house with a lot of sensors. The monthly fee is to alarmgrid because as I understand it you cant have the controller direct call a cell phone without a middleman. I may be wrong on that. At any rate it sends an alarm to my phone and I can decide what to do with the alarm. Again no contract. Internet is unreliable for us plus wires can be cut.

As a side note, I have motion activated lighting all around the house and the one time I had an unwanted visitor looking for an unlocked door, he didn't give two shits about the lights. How do I know, because I was here, up, and I saw him. Druggies don't think like a non high thief I suppose. He fled looking down the barrel of a gun.

Congrats on your retirement.

 

[joseywales]

Home security is, like so many other things, about deterrence, not prevention. You want to make your house less appetizing than those around you. Alarm signs, cameras, lights, dogs, landscape, all play a role in home security. Assuming you're addressing those, here are my thoughts:

1 - What are you trying to protect? My main purpose for an alarm was to be notified of intrusion when I am home. The dogs, alarm, etc., alert me and buy me what could be crucial seconds to call prepare, call 911, and defend. When I'm away, there are a lot of items I really like, but they are all insured. And most of them, if you can to them and remove them from my home, you've earned the right to keep them. I'll file a claim.

2 - Insurance. If you have firearms and other sporting equipment, it's best to NOT insure those on home policies. Get a separate policy for those. I pay @ $200 annually and it covers items homeowner's would either never pay for, or never understand the value of. Plus, if you file a claim, your HO insurance premium is sure to increase. Also, if you file a homeowner's claim and it's denied, it still goes on your record. So when you apply to other companies, they are aware of the attempted claim. Crazy, but true.

3 - Alarm systems. Again, when I'm away, I like to know what's going on, but I'm not panicking to get police there. I have the Visonic wireless alarm for 3 years and have been very happy with it. It calls me, or various folks I choose, texts, etc. Very simple to install. They have water sensors, motion sensors, etc. I will tell you that programming takes a lot of patience at first. It's simple, but the menus are laborious until you get the hang of it.

After 14 months or so, I had an error that wouldn't clear and the system was down. The selling company couldn't help, but I Googled and found out there could be a known issue. I contacted the manufacturer's tech support. They could not have been more cordial and forthcoming. I prepaid shipped my unit back to them. Unfortunately, they could not repair it, without wiping out all of my programming. They warned me about that in advance. I'm experienced with the programming though, so it wasn't a huge deal. Fast turnaround and I was happy they repaired the unit free of charge. Very impressed.

Be safe!

 

[djhnsn]

If you choose to go with a wired/wireless system similar to what ADT and other companies use look at the Ademco/Honeywell Vista20P.

You can self monitor and use a phone app to control it with a Envisalink module over the internet for no monthly fee. I think monitoring if you wanted it is about $9 per month.

 

[bushmechanic]

I am going to be retiring, and moving. Currently building a new house and of course will have a big detached garage.

My question is about home security. The builder had me meet with a company that does all the security/entertainment/lifestyle type stuff, and of course with a monitoring program for $40-60/month. F*** that monthly fee BS, I don't want any of that.

My question is what types of home security stuff should I put in while construction going on, that can be stand-alone? I have three big dogs that are the best part of my security plan. I don't need the smoke detectors connected to a monitoring system that per the sales pitch: also cuts power to the water heater and furnace while at the same time contacts fire dept. They offer all the internet connected thermostat and garage door opening or closing if you leave it open. They also put all the wiring for the sensors on doors and windows inside the walls when construction is going on.

I will be installing the Liftmaster garage door openers and I know they have capability for internet connection I believe. Also thermostats can be internet connected. None of this requires the monitoring BS.

If you were in my position, what would you do for the security aspect? Should I put the sensors and other stuff even if I am not going to go with any type monitored security system?

Secondary question, related to the internet side of things, do any of the internet connected items like thermostat or other pieces need special equipment beyond wireless?

Thanks for any advice, now is the time for me to make these decisions.

It depends on which products you go with, but most "smart home" devices will need only wifi/blutooth connectivity, sometimes an account, and on occasion a power outlet nearby.

You don't need a big, all in one, professionally installed system these days unless you're going crazy with theater/automation or just want a security system. I don't care for the things, but some people like them.

There are countless products now that replicate the functionality of rack-mounted home automation with no more than a phone or tablet; and I'm glad. Those people always creep me out, and it's never made one ounce of sense to go straight proprietary in this industry; certainly not when everyone jumps in on the game.

You're no longer chained to a home automation specialist.

So far as security, be sure you note who's behind what device. Some are Google powered, some relay information in an alarming number of directions, and so on... One big thing you need to know about security is this:

Step one is always letting someone you don't know in your house.

Security and smart devices are not both required. You don't need to pay a monthly fee or deal with a bunch of **** in your house just to use voice control with multi-colored lighting, home theater, thermostat, automatic blinds...

All that can be done on your own if you like.

If there's a soul on this planet that can't install and set up a Nest thermostat without aid, I'd love to meet him. Home theater can be tricky sometimes, but that's going to give you a headache whether someone else sets it up or not.

So: Do you want to walk in a finished house that obeys orders, or do you want to have better control over what you install and when?

So far as site security is concerned during the build, I don't see how that's your problem. Later on, you can choose among countless add-on systems that happen to work perfectly well with things like Harmony, Alexa, Cortana, or whatever else you decide to use.

Doesn't matter in the end.

And for the record, in response to some other comment, HD doesn't automatically mean useful quality. If it's capturing at 5FPS it ain't worth a damn.

 

[kwschumm]

If the house walls are open it is really hard to beat the price and simplistic reliability of a set of contacts wired to a panel.

 

[inphx]

I have a combination of hikvision cameras that email me and a self installed sensor system that connects to https://www.alarmrelay.com/ - they charge $8.95/mo