Do Home Security Systems Work?
If you’re concerned about protecting your home against intruders or you want added protection against fire and environmental disasters, a home security system can help give your peace of mind that your home and family are safe. Home security systems aren’t cheap, so you need to carefully decide whether it’s worth the investment of your time and money. In order to determine if a security system is worth it for your home and family, start asking yourself what would make it worth it to you.
- Home Security Systems May Deter Burglars
Installing a home alarm can be an effective deterrent against potential burglary. Researchers at UNC Charlotte conducted the effect of the presence of a home security system and found that 60% of burglars looking to invade a home would indeed be deterred by an alarm system. Cameras are one of the common features of alarm systems that are a major deterrent to criminals.
- Linked to Lower Overall Crime Rate
The positive impact of home security is the burglary rate declined across specific neighborhoods as a whole when homeowners install alarm systems. A comprehensive study by researchers at Rutgers University School of Criminal Justice found that an installed burglar alarm makes the home less attractive to active intruders and protects the home without displacing burglaries to nearby homes, decreasing the neighborhood’s crime rate.
- They Can Protect You Against Fire and Water Damage
In addition to monitoring your home for security threats, home alarm systems are also equipped to detect smoke. The death rate from fire in homes that don’t have an alarm is twice as high compared to those that do. Like fire, water can wreak just as much havoc on your home. Install a home security system that’s equipped with water sensors to help minimize your potential losses.
- They May Be Susceptible to Hacker
The majority of DIY and consumer-grade home security systems on the market run on wireless communication, which means you don’t need a landline to make it work. While it’s convenient for you, there is also a downside. Monitoring systems have weak points in their security and software that could allow a hacker to gain access to your home. To avoid this, you can rely on the expertise of professional home security systems and installers.
- Most Systems Require an Investment
When you’re getting a home security system, there are usually two primary costs you’ll need to pay upfront: an installation fee and equipment fees. While some companies give discounts or waive installation fees, the equipment fee can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200.
- Your Insurance Premiums and Home’s Value May Adjust
Homeowner’s insurance can be pricey, but installing a security system can save you a little money. If you're planning on selling your home down the line, a home security system is a secure and easy way to boost the property’s value.
There’s no question that alarm systems deter crime and can increase the odds of catching a burglar if your home does get broken into. If your goal is reducing loss from burglary, look into additional services provided by monitoring companies that could end up saving you a lot more when you add a smoke alarm, carbon monoxide, and remote home automation services to help prevent loss of life and property while managing energy costs.
Integrity Security believes the best easy way to determine if a home security system is worth the investment is to take advantage of our trained experts who understand everything about security and alarm monitoring. Contact us today for more information about how you can protect your home.