Some experts estimate that around 14% of homes in the United States are protected by monitored security systems. However, a burglary occurs every 15 seconds in the US. When asked why they don’t have a monitored security system, many people often cite one (or several) popular home security misconceptions. Here are five common home security myths.
Myth #1 – Home Security is Expensive!
Surprisingly, home security doesn’t cost as much as you might think. Some security companies offer a basic level of monitoring for around $40 per month. However, you also have to factor in the discount that having a monitored security system gives you on your homeowner’s insurance. Most insurance companies will give you around a 20% discount for having a monitored security system installed. However, some companies offer up to a 40% discount! In some cases, you might find that having a security system pays for itself in insurance discounts.
Myth #2 – I’ll Always Have to Pay for Monitoring.
If you’re tech-savvy, you can design your home security system without requiring it to be connected to a monitoring station. Some people don’t like the idea of paying monthly for home security, and that’s completely fine. Instead, you should focus on designing a system of sensors that sends you alerts (email, text, call, etc) when the sensors are triggered. You can even set up a video surveillance system that you can view remotely while you’re away at work.
Myth #3 – My Pet Could Set Off the Security System.
Most monitored home security systems are now designed to accommodate for at-home pets. The sensors can be placed in an area above the pet’s height, or they may also be put at a setting that detects movement over a certain size. For example, some motion sensors can be set to only go off if they detect motion of an object over 50 pounds, which is more than most pets weigh. If you have a pet, talk to a home security company – there are probably many options available to you!
Myth #4 – I Won’t Get Burglarized.
Tough financial times are making more people resort to desperate criminal measures. The average person will lose from $1000 – $5000 from a burglary. Are you willing to take that chance? Spending money improving your home’s security is like buying “insurance”. Even if you don’t get burglarized, it’s impossible to put a price on peace of mind.
Myth #5 – Installing a Home Security System is Difficult and Expensive.
If you purchase a monitored home security system from a company along with a monitoring package, in most cases you may be able to get the system installed free of charge. Free installation has become a standard for many home security companies. If you don’t plan to pay for monitoring, you still don’t have to be an expert to install a home security system in your home. Stick to wireless systems, which are much easier to set up and install. Most stand-alone systems come with detailed instructions that will walk you through the installation process.
