Your home is important to you and there’s nothing more distressing than a break in. These days, home security is relatively inexpensive, and in every area there are lots of companies that can install burglar alarms .

But how do you select the right company? Here’s some great advice on choosing the right company for you.

1. Does the company offer free surveys? Be wary of any company that won’t attend your property and offer a free survey/consultation and quotation. A good company will make constructive suggestions for your home security, and provide your with a free detailed survey & quotation, and certainly not pressure your for a decision on your doorstep.

2. Are they an established local company? Local companies work hard to preserve their good reputation by providing great service and will be pleased to offer references. In addition, by looking round your local area, you will notice alarm company stickers on bell boxes, which is a good indicator of the most popular companies in your area, which should help you draw up a shortlist to contact.

3. Is the company a member of any trade associations? Find out which one and of you are not familiar with them, check that they are an established association online. Beware of companies that belong to minor associations that can be joined easily and at low cost. Most companies will display details of accreditations online, so by searching the Net you will become familiar with the different trade assocciations.

4. What guarantees are offered on their installation and equipment? You want one year as a minimum - some may offer more, and others will offer some kind of extended warranty, perhaps at a small cost. If something goes wrong with the system - for example, the alarm goes off and you can’t turn it off - what are their response times. Also, do they offer maintenance packages and monitoring services ?

5. Do they project an air of professionalism? The person doing the initial visit must come across as professional. Do they have professional looking paperwork or is the quote scribbled on scrap paper? Are their vehicles sign written or do they drive shabby, unmarked vans?

6. Finally, do the details of the alarm they are quoting you for, match your needs and lifestyle? Have you told them about your pets, children and any specific requirements you may have. That way they can match a system towards your specific needs. If you feel you have to change your lifestyle to conform with their alarm system, then seek an alternative.

If you follow the above tips and more than one company meets the criteria, then go with the one you feel most confident in. At the end of the day, It’s not always about price, especially when protecting your greatest and most important asset - your home.

Tags: Home Security