The Best Self-Monitoring Security System

Whether you’re an independent DIY type of person, you want to have full control of your home’s security, or you are just a bit more budget-conscious, you still have great options for enhancing home security. A self-monitoring security system can provide quality home security without heavy monthly fees and long-term contracts. Because you aren’t committed to a professionally-monitored system, self-monitoring security systems can offer more freedom and flexibility to monitor your system to best suit your needs. 

self-monitoring security system
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Pros and Cons of Self-Monitoring Security Systems

With any type of system, there are benefits and drawbacks. Self-monitoring security systems, for instance, offer greater flexibility for DIYers. Other pros include:

  • Packages that include a base station, entry keypad, door and window sensors, motion sensors, ear-piercing alarms in case of a break-in (to scare off potential intruders), and signage for the yard and windows.
  • Being able to control your smart home system from the convenience of your phone, so you can see who’s at the door to accept packages or even let friends and family enter—even when you aren’t there—with doorbell cameras and smart locks. You can also arm or disarm the system from your smartphone, which provides greater control from the palm of your hand.
  • Having greater peace of mind knowing that your home and family are protected, even when you’re hundreds or thousands of miles away.
  • With indoor smart cameras, you can keep an eye out for your kids and pets or others who have entered your home.
  • Glass break sensors, which can alert you to break-ins.
  • Real-time notifications on your smartphone if your system detects unauthorized entry, rising flood waters, fire and smoke sensory activity, and carbon dioxide levels to help prevent expensive damage to you, your home, or your family.
  • Data protection to help prevent system hacks.
  • Decreased monthly fees compared to professionally-monitored systems.

The cons of having a self-monitoring security system include:

  • Upfront cost of the equipment.
  • Lack of 24/7 security monitoring from professionals.
  • No trained dispatchers to alert the authorities in case of an event, so if you don’t respond, how useful is the alarm?
  • Device and video storage limitations.
  • Limited by your internet connection—if your home internet is spotty or if you are in an area where your connection isn’t good, you may not receive important alerts.
  • Self-monitoring systems typically get lower (or no) discounts for home insurance than professionally installed and monitored systems.

With a self-monitoring system, you can still set it up to receive custom alerts, arm or disarm the system, and create custom access codes. You can even integrate the system with voice assistants from Amazon or Google. Plus, while you don’t get the security monitoring from professionals, you still have a user-focused support center along with web and app portals to help with any questions or troubleshooting. 

If you do want to add professional monitoring later, that is still an option. Added protection may be available for specific periods, such as if you leave for vacation. 

self-monitoring security system
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

When Self-Monitoring Security Systems Make the Most Sense

Sometimes setting up and paying for a full, professionally-monitored security system isn’t practical or warranted. For instance, if you:

  • Live in a secured apartment building and only need personal security cameras to keep an eye on what’s happening inside your home, such as with your children or pets.
  • Have a tight budget and can’t afford recurring payments for professional monitoring.
  • Are confident that you and those you live with can respond appropriately if your system is triggered.
  • Are concerned about false alarms, which can alert emergency teams (e.g., contact police or fire crew). Instead, these systems alert you, and you can log into the system before requesting an emergency response only when needed. 

The Best Self-Monitoring Security System Takeaway

Determining the best level of monitoring for you, your home, and your family is highly personal. If you want to take control of your system completely, a self-monitoring security system may make the most sense. And if circumstances change in the future, you can also add additional features, which can include professionally-monitored security. 

The bottom line is that any system will make your home safer than having no system at all. 

An ADT (now Telus) monitored alarm system from Alarm Guard will keep you feeling secure and protect your assets and could even help you save on homeowner’s insurance! Check out our packages and call now for a free quote at <b><a href=“tel:18555184458” title=“Call Now” class=“btn” style=“margin-left:15px;“>1-855-518-4458</a></b> and talk with an expert about which security system—monitored or unmonitored—is right for your situation. 

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