Compare Top Providers
 SimpliSafe Security | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pro. monitoring starts at | $45.99/mo. | $26/mo. | $29.99/mo. | $14.99/mo. | $44.99/mo. |
Installation | Professional | DIY | Professional | DIY or Professional | DIY |
Contract | 36 months | Not specified | 42-60 mos. or pay for equipment in full | None | None |
Smart home compatibility | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Video surveillance | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Warranty | Option to extend limited warranty | Not specified | 120-day equipment warranty | 3-year limited equipment warranty | 3-year limited equipment warranty |
Home Security in Des Moines
Des Moines is the capital city of Iowa and the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the Midwest. Des Moines is known for its festivals, farmers’ markets, iconic biking trails and an emerging music scene. It’s a great place to live and visit in the Midwest region. According to the U.S. Census, Des Moines has a population of over 214,200 people that has grown by almost 5% over the past 10 years. But growing populations can bring along increases in crime. For those living in Des Moines, we’ve looked at some of the best home security providers to help you keep your home safe.
Des Moines Crime Statistics
Iowa is currently ranked 37th in the U.S. for its property crime rate and 26th for its burglary crime rate. Crime statistics suggest that Des Moines has a fairly high rate of property crime compared to other cities in Iowa. Statistics from Neighborhood Scout reveal that people in Des Moines have a 1-in-34 chance of becoming a victim of property crime. Across the whole of Iowa, there is a 1-in-59 chance.
Here is a breakdown of the main offenses reported in Des Moines in 2018 according to the Des Moines Police Department:
- 5,700 incidents of larceny-theft
- 2,104 incidents of burglary
- 1,518 incidents of motor vehicle theft
- 253 incidents of robbery
- 1,122 incidents of aggravated assault
Des Moines Spotlight: SEi Security — Local Security Provider
Founded in 1969, SEi Security offers full home security packages across the Midwest. SEi Security specializes in home intrusion alarms, home automation and monitoring services. With its Five-Diamond monitoring center, homes can receive 24/7 monitoring for the best protection. This includes 24/7 surveillance and burglar alarms to detect any intruders. If the security system picks up an intruder, it will send signals to the local monitoring system so the authorities can be contacted.
As SEi offers something different for each home, its team will work closely with you to assess your individual home security needs. This will enable the company to put together a fully customized package. Your security package could include burglar alarms, video surveillance, 24-hour monitoring and video doorbells. With a handy wireless solution, SEi Security offers a convenient and easy-to-install security system. There is no need to deal with trailing wires or a complicated installation. This also makes it much easier to move devices or even move your system to another property in the future.
SEi Security also provides the latest security technology to make your home a smart home. You will be able to set up remote control of your doors, windows, lights and temperature. These controls work well with the other security equipment and help to deter intruders.
Our take
SEi provides a fully customizable home security system to suit everyone’s needs. It uses modern technology and home automation to fully protect your home with a convenient wireless solution.
Pros
- Low monthly cost for monitoring
- Manage your security online or via the app
- A wireless system that is easy to install and more
Cons
- Mobile app only available on a higher plan
- Standard monitoring plan requires a landline
- No equipment pricing online
- Best Home Security for Industry Experience
Our Take on ADT Home Security
ADT’s a well-recognized name in the home security industry. It offers traditional security that requires professional installation and monitoring at a steep price.
★ Recommended Plan
CompletePros
- 6-month money-back guarantee
- $500 theft protection guarantee
- High-quality equipment
Cons
- Must pay for an extended warranty
- Lengthy contracts
- More expensive than competitors
- Best Smart Home Security
Our Take on Vivint Home Security
Vivint has an extensive line of smart security equipment that you can expand over time. The downside is that you’ll have a long-term contract if you finance your equipment.
★ Recommended Plan
Vivint’s Smart Home Service is our recommended plan because it unlocks a larger selection of smart home devices, as well as video monitoring.
Pros
- Month-to-month contract option if equipment is purchased upfront
- Backup battery included with the Sky Control panel
- Extensive equipment features, including Vivint Car Guard
Cons
- Long contract if equipment is financed
- Installation can take 3-4 hours
- Short (120-day) equipment warranty and service guarantee (unless you purchase Premium)
- Best Overall DIY Security System
Our Take on SimpliSafe Home Security
SimpliSafe is our top pick for inexpensive monitoring, durable equipment and reliable services that simplify home security. You’ll have all the right devices and features to give you peace of mind — even when the unexpected happens.
★ Recommended Package
BarringtonPros
- Inexpensive professional monitoring
- Wireless equipment
- Cellular monitoring
Cons
- Mobile alerts not available in the basic monitoring plan
- No selection of smart home devices
- Smart home capabilities not available in basic monitoring plan
- Best Pet-Friendly Home Security
Frontpoint Home Security
Our rating9.4Starting at$44.99/moOur Take on Frontpoint Home Security
Frontpoint lets you choose both your package and monitoring plan to help build the perfect home security system for renters and homeowners alike. Monitoring can be costly, but free DIY installation helps lower costs without reducing reliability or protection.
★ Recommended Plan
Our recommended Frontpoint plan is the Safe Home Starter equipment package combined with the Ultimate monitoring plan, which will give you access to a smartphone app for monitoring your security devices.
Pros
- No lengthy contracts
- Excellent customer service
- Variety of equipment to choose from
Cons
- Monitoring fees are relatively expensive
- Short (30 days) trial period
- No professional installation option
Additional Local Home Security Providers for Des Moines
If you are looking for a local home security provider, here are some we recommend:
- Strauss Security Solutions: Strauss Security Solutions provides alarm systems, video surveillance and access control for Iowa residents.
- Homeguard Security: Homeguard specializes in 24/7 monitoring, video surveillance and alarm systems for competitive prices.
- Astra Security: Astra Security provides professionally installed access control, alarm and camera systems.
- A Tech: A Tech installs Honeywell security systems, cameras and burglar alarms for homes across Iowa.
Surrounding Areas for Des Moines
Some of these local providers will also be able to cover homes in the following Des Moines neighborhoods:
- Bevington, Iowa
- Sandyville, Iowa
- Frisbie Park, Iowa
- Granger, Iowa
- Prairie City, Iowa
- Pleasant Hill, Iowa
- Waterbury, Iowa
- Waveland Park, Iowa
- Windsor Heights, Iowa
- Beaverdale, Iowa
Common Home Security Equipment and Features
Control panel/hub
Motion sensor
As one of the sentinels in your home, the motion sensor captures unusual activity, and your system lets you know. Some providers have motion sensors that are designed to be pet-friendly, avoiding pets under 80 pounds to help prevent false alarms. Learn more about motion sensors here in our post.
Door/window sensor
Door/window sensors are sentinels for your entry points. Most have a discreet profile so they’re not easily seen, but once an entry point is breached, your control panel sounds an alarm to let the intruder know they’ve been caught. Learn more about the door/window sensors offered by Frontpoint, Protect America, and SimpliSafe.
Indoor security camera
If you want to be able to monitor the interior of your home, communicate with family members, and check in on pets, then choosing an indoor security camera is a great option. Most indoor cameras feature HD video, come with night vision, and have two-way communication. Learn more about indoor security camera options offered by SimpliSafe, Vivint, and Abode.
Outdoor security camera
Keep tabs on your property no matter your location with an outdoor security cameras. Most outdoor cameras have weatherproof features, night vision, and some even have deterrence features. Learn more about the outdoor security camera options offered by ADT, Vivint, and Frontpoint.
Video doorbell camera
Check your front doorstep without having to leave work with a video doorbell camera. Most video doorbells have built-in two-way communication and night vision. Learn more about the video doorbells offered by Guardian Protection, Vivint, and SimpliSafe.
Smart thermostat
With a smart thermostat, you can potentially improve your home’s energy efficiency. Most smart thermostats allow you to program them, creating a schedule for when your home’s heating and cooling system turns on. Some will also automatically adjust themselves based on certain conditions. Learn more about the smart thermostats offered by Vivint, Frontpoint, and ADT.
Smart lock
Go keyless with a smart lock, designed so you can easily lock or unlock your door via app. Some smart locks have a keycode feature, allowing you to set unique PINs for family members and or professionals who may need to access your home. Learn more about the smart locks offered by Guardian Protection, Protect America, and Scout.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Can’t decide? Compare top providers side-by-side: ADT vs. SimpliSafe, Vivint vs. Frontpoint, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions for Des Moines
With high levels of theft and burglary in Des Moines, it’s crucial that residents protect their homes with security systems. A security system with video surveillance, burglar alarms and motion detection will ensure you are fully protected.
Local home security providers such as SEi Security and A Tech, along with national companies such as ADT all provide smart home devices. These include options such as remote-controlled windows and doors and access control.
Most home security providers offer professional installation. Local companies such as SEi Security, Astra Security and Strauss Security all provide professional installation suited to your home.
Many home security providers will require a contract for their ongoing monitoring services. These typically last a year or more. For example, ADT requires a 36-month agreement. However, for a more flexible option, Frontpoint offers a month-to-month agreement instead.
The majority of home security providers offer security cameras, but they generally come at an extra cost. You can have cameras installed with national companies such as SimpliSafe, or with local providers such as Homeguard Security, Strauss Security Solutions, Astra Security, A Tech or SEi Security.
