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Kitchen Remodel Philadelphia, PA

Home Security: DIY or Hire a Professional?

You want to protect your home and family, but you are unsure whether or not you should hire a security service or simply install one of those do-it-yourself (DIY) kits. The DIY option is certainly more appealing to the wallet, but … should you really be in the business of home security?

Before making a decision based primarily on price, look at what’s involved with each option.

Let’s begin with installation. It is true that home security installation isn’t as complicated as it once was. With the advancement of technology – specifically wireless technology – a homeowner can install a wireless home security system in a weekend, or less. In fact, it is one of the top installed systems on the market today. Most wireless systems have easy-to-follow instructions and are practically ready to go from the box. Additionally, if you choose a hard-wire system, you will need to hire an electrician to connect the system to your electrical. This is not something that you should attempt yourself.

Monitoring your home is also a critical component of your overall home security. The traditional approach is to hire an alarm company to monitor your home. There are also stand-alone monitoring options where if the alarm is tripped, the system automatically dials a per-programmed number; a technology-based monitoring system sends either a text message to your cell phone or an email. The latter two options do not require monthly fees.

On the other hand, when you hire a contractor to install your home security system, you are getting a professional. Your contractor will be highly knowledgeable in home security and can evaluate your home, listen to your concerns and provide you with many options. Most companies are not one-size-fits-all and will be able to tailor your security to your specific needs. Some homeowners, for example, may elect for video surveillance along the perimeter of the property, while others need a more basic security package.

Additionally, when you work with a professional, you’ll have the peace-of-mind that you have a reputable company installing the system and monitoring your home. Today, home security is much more than simply monitoring entry and exit points of your home. Systems offer full protection of your family, which can include carbon monoxide detection, fire and smoke detection, and even medical alert systems, to name a few.

Also, should there be an issue with the system, reputable contractors will offer warranties, upgrades and replacement systems (if it were to come to that) – something you may not get with a DIY system.

Although a DIY security kit probably is more appealing to the checkbook, will it be the right solution to protect your family? Only you can answer that question. But no matter what your decision is, make sure you do your homework so you know exactly what you are getting for your money. Making the wrong choice in home security could be more costly than the hardware and service.

This apply’s to anything that you are thinking about doing yourself.  You have to ask yourself this questions, is this something that I can do my self? or if I would hire a professional would I feel better about it.  Some things may seem a simple task, but then turns out to be harder than you think it is and you will need to hire a professional to finish it for you.