The question of security is one that all homeowners need to address. After all, the primary function of a home is to provide shelter from the elements and security from criminal elements. According to this Santa Rosa criminal attorney, home security is especially important considering the fact that burglaries and home invasions have spiked over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the technology we currently have access to, there is a wealth of choices. While an abundance of options is usually a good thing, it can become a dizzying experience for a first-timer, and a potential financial disaster if they end up choosing the wrong set of features.
In order to maximize the value for your money, what are the things to consider when purchasing a home security system?
Wired vs Wireless
It may not seem like it at first, but deciding between a wired vs wireless home security system is a big decision to make. Depending on the type of home security system you choose, you’re either going to be investing in a lot of wires, rewiring, drilling, or in a lot of wireless techs.
Wired installations are generally more secure, but require a lot of planning as these systems are usually permanent once installed. Wireless installations are much easier to install and alter and they come in a wide variety of sensors, detectors, and more. This makes them suitable for post-construction installation.
Full Security System vs DIY Components
Another important thing to consider is whether you’re going to buy the entire security system package, or if there are components in that package that you can make or buy yourself, which could save you money. After all, hardware stores have most of the things you need for a home alarm system.
However, if you do decide to make some of the components yourself, it also follows that all liability lies with you. This means that no one will be monitoring your security systems on the back end, and if there is a malfunction, there are no warranties to get it fixed.
Central Alarm-Monitoring Service Subscription
A central monitoring service is an alarm-monitoring service that verifies whether a threat is real before dispatching the authorities. This comes at a monthly predetermined cost, but getting a monitored alarm service might also qualify you for home insurance discounts.
Smart Home Integration
Finally, it’s important to determine whether you’re planning on adopting a smart home infrastructure in the future. This won’t matter much to someone who doesn’t plan on creating a smart home, but for those who plan on doing so, it’s important to choose security system components that are future-proof in this regard.
The matter of security should always be the first thing on your mind when buying a loft. It is one of the most basic and most important functions of a house and to forgo a reliable security system puts everything and everyone in the house at risk.