Burglar Alarm Systems Considerations Before Purchasing

Once installed an electronic security alarm system becomes an iatrical part of your home or business and of your daily living pattern.  Your electronic security representative may end up knowing more about your home or business than any other service person that will ever be on your property.  Take enough time to find out as much as you can about the electronic security company you are considering purchasing from.  Select a company only after thoughtful consideration.

Determine what you need or want in an electronic security system.

• You probably want protection on all perimeter doors.
• Do you want detectors on all ground level windows?
• You should have an inside siren.
• Do you want outside sirens?
• Do you want motion detectors inside? Where? How many? Do you or will you have inside pets?
• Is monitoring needed with your electronic security system?
           If yes, does the monitoring company confirm alarm signals prior to dispatching?
           Will the monitoring company accept and advise of alarm cancellations

Be cautious of anyone trying to rush you into making a major purchasing decision on an electronic security system.  

Be aware of sales statements or requests such as:

• You need to make your decision today.
• This offer is good today or this is a one-time offer.
• Any request for names of referrals or friends before you have purchased and used the system.
• An offer of a discount if you do certain things.
• A statement that the system is FREE. NOTHING YOU PURCHASE IS FREE

Is the electronic security company licensed in the city and/or county in which you live?  Is the company licensed by the Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure (AESBL)?  Do all company representatives have an official AESBL I.D. Badge?

    Ask the electronic security company for alarm users in your area who have had systems for 5 years; one year; 30 to 60 days in order to inquire about their alarm system experiences and company service.  Check with the Better Business Bureau for any information they may have on the company.

    Obtain quotes or bids from two or more electronic security companies.

    Know what you are purchasing, where it is to be placed, what it does, how it works, etc.

BEFORE YOU SIGN ANY CONTRACT:

• Read and re-read the contract to make certain you understand all requirements and services before you sign.
• Does the contract specify the equipment as yours or when it is yours?
• How long does the contract obligate you and for how much?
• Who are the appropriate contacts for resolving servicing or monitoring problems? How are they to be contacted?
• Does the contract have a cancellation clause?  What are the conditions for cancellation? What is the process?
• If a lawsuit should happen, is it filed in Alabama or is it required to be in another state where the company’s headquarters or monitoring are located?