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Keeping your home protected: unexpected ways to secure your home

Discover the ultimate guide to protecting your home, explore the untapped potential of securing your home in ways you never thought possible.
A-Beautiful-Home

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The unexpected benefits of having a security system: a discount on home insurance  

Discover the connection between home security systems, insurance discounts, and finding the right protection for your home.
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Best Home Security Systems Guide 2023

If you’re in the market for home security, we’ve made it easy for you to learn about the best security systems available.
A-Beautiful-Home

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What is the Best Security Camera for Your Home?

What is the best security camera for your home? Discover the most important features of home security cameras to keep you safe. Learn more!
fire-alarm

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How Do Home Security Alarms Work?

How do home security alarms work to protect your home? By using a network of sensors and detectors to alert you to suspicious behavior. Learn more!
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How to Hide Security Camera Wires Outside

Are you wondering how to hide security camera wires outside? Discover four ways to disguise your wires or get rid of them altogether. Read more!
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Frequently asked questions

There are many different home security systems on the market, and the “best” depends on your needs. When choosing the best home security system for you, compare and contrast the most popular systems to make an informed decision.

First, consider whether you want a professionally installed system like ADT and Vivint or a DIY-friendly solution like Frontpoint and Ring. Professionally installed systems are best for those living in their forever homes who want their equipment installed by experts. DIY systems are best for those looking for a flexible and custom security solution. 

Then, consider the cost. Most home security companies offer system bundles that range in price depending on the type and amount of security products you choose. Some companies like Frontpoint, Ring, and SimpliSafe offer build-your-own packages for complete customization. Additional costs associated with home security are monthly monitoring plans and professional installation. Read our in-depth guide to discover the best home security systems we recommend depending on your needs.

The cost of a home security system depends on various factors, including the system you choose, the equipment you need, monthly monitoring plans, professional installation fees, and more. Budget-friendly systems, like Ring, can start as low as $199 with no installation fees or required subscription plans. Other systems that require professional installation and monthly monitoring start around $500 for equipment and between $25 and $45 per month for monitoring. You can expect to pay upwards of $1,000 for robust systems with high-tech features and smart home integration abilities. 

Many home security companies offer customizable systems that range in price depending on the products you choose. Other companies, like Ring, offer individually-sold security products if you don’t want or need an entire system. Lastly, many companies offer payment plans tied to 36 to 60 month-long contracts, enabling you to pay off your security equipment monthly rather than in full. ADT, Vivint, and Frontpoint offer some of the best financing options. 

The good news is that there are home security systems available for various budgets, depending on your needs.

When it comes to installing security cameras in your home, the two primary installation options are professional installation and do-it-yourself (DIY) installation. With professional installation, the company you purchase a camera from sends a technician to your home to install the product. This gives you the peace of mind of knowing your security system was installed correctly and all pieces will function together properly. Security companies like ADT and Vivint require professional installation for all their security products. 

If you choose a security camera from a DIY-friendly company like Frontpoint, SimpliSafe, or Ring, you can install the security camera in your own home yourself following step-by-step instructions. In some cases, DIY home security companies offer professional installation for a fee, although it is not required. 

Other home security companies like Brinks offer both DIY-friendly systems and products that require professional installation, so you can choose the option that works best for you

The best home security system without a monthly fee is Ring. Ring products include specific features such as instant alerts, live view, two-way talk, and smart integrations with Amazon Alexa, Smart Locks, and other compatible devices without a paid subscription.

Another benefit of using a Ring home security system is the option to try monthly monitoring for free for 30 days to decide if it’s worth the cost. Ring’s protect plans are significantly less expensive than other home security companies. You can use Ring’s basic subscription plan that includes video recording for one device for $3 per month. Even Ring’s most comprehensive protection plan, Ring Protect Pro, costs just $20 per month. For reference, ADT’s monthly monitoring plans range from $27.99 to $62.99 per month, and Frontpoint’s single plan costs $49.99 per month. Lastly, Ring offers no-contract options, meaning you’re never stuck with a monthly plan you don’t want or need. 

Although Ring is the best home security system without a monthly fee, we don’t recommend it to everyone. “Monthly fees” in home security typically refer to monthly monitoring fees, which ultimately make your security system worth the cost. A monthly plan is worth it to get the most out of your security products and protect your home, family, and valuables in more ways than one. What each plan includes depends on the company. However, most offer 24/7 professional monitoring, emergency alerts and notifications, smart integrations, remote system controls via a mobile app, and video surveillance and recording. Fortunately, there are security systems with affordable monthly monitoring plans. We recommend SimpliSafe for those who want a DIY security system with an inexpensive monthly plan and Vivint for those who want a professionally-installed system with professional monitoring.

Theft Protection Guarantee:

Customer may receive reimbursement of up to five hundred dollars ($500) of Customer’s homeowner’s insurance deductible (if any) if, and only if, ALL requirements for Theft Protection Guarantee are met to ADT’s reasonable satisfaction. Customer must request reimbursement within 60 days of property loss. Request must be mailed to ADT and include: Theft Protection Guarantee certificate signed by Customer, a letter from Customer requesting reimbursement, a copy of the police report, and a copy of the accepted insurance claim. ADT reserves the right to reject any application for reimbursement that does not comply with all of the requirements.

 

ADT Money-Back Guarantee:

Money-back guarantee only applies after ADT has made attempts to resolve a system-related issue and has not been able to resolve that issue within the first six (6) months of your contract. Equipment must be fully removed before a refund will be processed. Conditions preventing normal system operation cannot be caused by the customer.