The Best Home Security Systems with Professional Installation
If you’re looking to purchase a home security system with professional installation, we share some of the best providers that you can choose from. Learn more about these providers, their features, and things to consider with your search.
The Best Security System Providers with Professional Installation
- ADT Home Security Best for Industry Experience
- Vivint Smart Home Best for Smart Home Equipment
- Protect America Home Security Best for Multiple Monitoring Options
- Guardian Protection Home Security Best for Bluetooth Disarming
- Xfinity Home Security Best for Integrating with Home Entertainment System
| Professional monitoring starts at | $35.99/mo. | $38.99/mo. | $15.00/mo. | $45.99/mo. | $39.95/mo. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment starts at | $99.00 | $650.00 | No upfront cost | $99.00 | $360.00 |
| Basic motion detection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Security camera(s) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smart home devices | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Home environmental monitoring devices | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Installation | Professional | Professional | DIY | Professional | Professional |
| Contract length | 3 years | *5 years | 3 years | 3 – 5 years | **2 years |
| Trial Period | 6 months | 3 days | 30 days | 6 months | 30 days |
**- Xfinity requires a contract if you elect to finance your equipment
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Security Systems with Professional Installation
Installation cost – In most cases, home security systems with professional installation require an installation fee. It’s not uncommon to pay at least $99 for your system to be installed. You’ll need to factor this cost into your decision before choosing a provider. If you cannot find the price online, you can call and ask a sales professional for the pricing.
Equipment cost- Equipment cost is another factor you’ll want to keep in mind before settling on a provider. Equipment can cost anywhere from $99 to upwards of $2,000 depending on the provider. This price will vary based on the package or equipment you select, and it’s important to note that if you’re looking to purchase a security camera or smart home devices, your package will likely be more expensive.
Contract length – Many home security systems with professional installation require a contract, and the average contract length is 3 years. The longer end of the spectrum is 5 years, and in this case, the provider may be aiming to cover the cost of security equipment with the longer contract. If you don’t want to be tied down to a home security contract, consider a self-installed security system instead.
Your time – With professional installation, a technician typically comes out to your home for a consultation, and you’ll need to set aside time for him or her performing your installation. It could take a technician hours to complete an installation depending on the complexity of the security system and the amount of equipment.
Professionally Installed Security Systems vs. DIY Security Systems
Home security systems with professional installation have their advantages and disadvantages. Learn more about the pros and cons of this type of home security system as well as self-installed systems.
Professionally-Installed Security Systems
Pros
- More assurance of a proper install
- Ask questions about your security system
- System maintenance is typically handled by the provider
Cons
- Typically requires an installation fee
- Typically requires a contract
- Could end up purchasing more equipment than needed
DIY Security Systems
Pros
- Can choose between professional or self-monitoring
- Monitoring is usually cheaper
- More flexibility with equipment placement
Cons
- Possibility for improper installation
- Expensive upfront cost for equipment
- May be responsible for repairs
Frequently Asked Questions About Security Systems with Professional Installation
Are security systems with professional installation recommended over self-installed security systems?
This really depends on your needs and what you’re looking for in a home security system. A security system with professional installation is better if you don’t feel like you’ll be able to properly install your system. On the other hand, a DIY security system may be the better solution if cost is your main concern, as most of those options are less expensive.
What can I expect to pay for my installation fee?
Not all providers who offer home security systems with professional installation require an installation fee, but it is typical. You could pay as little as $99 for installation or much more, it all depends on the provider and the equipment that needs to be installed.
What could I expect to pay for professional monitoring?
Professional monitoring typically ranges anywhere from $30/mo. to upwards of $55/mo. for providers that require professional installation.
What should I expect to pay for home security equipment?
Home security equipment can range anywhere from $99 to upwards of $2,000 depending on the package or equipment you choose to purchase.
Which is the best home security provider with professional installation for me?
This will depend on what you’re looking for, but here’s a good analysis of each to help you with your decision. Choose ADT if you’re looking for a provider with longevity in the industry and you want a long trial period. We would recommend Vivint if you’re looking for unique equipment and don’t mind paying more for your equipment. If you don’t want to pay anything upfront for your equipment and would like to have a locked monitoring rate over the life of your contract, we’d recommend Protect America. Choose Xfinity if you’re looking for a security camera with artificial intelligence, and you want to be able to watch your camera footage on TV. And finally, if you’d like access to Bluetooth arming & disarming, then we’d recommend Guardian Protection.
