Investing in a new home security system means looking at plenty of options. One of the options is professional monitoring. Professionally monitored systems are watched 24 hours a day by way of a remote monitoring center staffed by trained professionals.
Professional monitoring is based on the idea that a monitored system is more effective than one that simply emits a lot of noise. Monitoring is more proactive whereas an alarm system that only makes noise is purely reactive. Homeowners looking to invest in security systems need to decide for themselves whether or not professional monitoring is worth it.
The Basics of How It Works
In principle, professionally monitored home security is pretty simple to understand. A home’s security system is built around a centralized hub through which the homeowner controls individual devices. That hub is also connected to the monitoring center by way of cell phone signals, landline phone, or the internet.
When an alert is triggered by one of the security devices in the home:
- It sends a signal to the central hub.
- The hub initiates an audible alarm.
- A notification is immediately sent to the monitoring center.
- Monitoring center staff evaluate the incident.
- They contact emergency services if necessary.
- They contact the homeowner as well.
That is pretty much it in a nutshell. Professional monitoring utilizes computers and software to monitor for alarms. When an alarm is triggered, security staff spring into action to determine the extent of the emergency so that appropriate action can be taken.
Why Some People Choose It
Professional monitoring is obviously not necessary. So why do some people choose to go with it? According to Vivint Smart Home, there could be any number of reasons including:
- Response Times – Professional monitoring leads to faster response times in most cases. That’s because monitoring centers are constantly watching for alerts, whereas a homeowner choosing to self-monitor might lag behind.
- Deterrence – Numerous studies over the years have suggested that burglars will think twice about breaking into a home they know is equipped with monitored home security. That being the case, professional monitoring acts as a deterrent if sorts.
- Insurance Discounts – Some insurance companies offer discounts on property insurance when homeowners have monitored security systems installed. That sounds like an easy way to save money, right?
- Peace of Mind – Additional peace of mind is yet another reason to choose professional monitoring. Homeowners are more at peace knowing that their homes are being watched while they are away. And even when they are home, they know that professional monitoring is still working to protect them.
Maximizing the effectiveness of a home security system requires monitoring it. Someone needs to pay attention to what’s going on. For some consumers, it is a better deal to let a professional monitoring company do the job.
Monitoring and Monthly Subscriptions
Professional monitoring obviously isn’t provided for free. But that doesn’t mean it is exorbitantly priced, either. There are some very affordable plans out there, plans that are paid for via a monthly subscription.
My only advice is to shop around and pay attention to the details. Shopping different providers offers the opportunity to compare pricing and value. In terms of the details, pay attention to things like contract length and how the monitoring company will respond to alarms.
Professional monitoring is not a home security requirement. But as long as someone has to monitor things anyway, why not consider having professionals do it? Professional monitoring is always active. It’s always keeping an eye on your home whether you are there or not. How can you beat that?
