Home Security Systems: Full-Service vs. DIY Installations

Getting Started with Home Security? Here’s What You Need to Consider

After a long day, the last thing anyone wants or expects is to see their front door kicked in and the house burglarized. You might think, ‘We live in a nice neighborhood,’ or ‘That wouldn’t happen here.’ But according to the Department of Justice, around 1.7 million burglaries occur every year in the US, and 51 percent of home robberies are repeated within six weeks.

When people’s homes are broken into or vandalized, it’s not just that valuables are stolen. It’s the sense of security that’s lost and very challenging to regain.

Whether you’ve experienced a break-in or not, it’s always a wise decision to protect your property with a security and surveillance system. Not only will you prevent and catch intruders, but you’ll also keep your eye on the kids, pets, mail deliveries, and be notified of any water or gas leaks.

But how does one install a home security system? Should you do it yourself or hire a home security company? We share the pros and cons of each below so you can make the best decision for your Murfreesboro, TN home.

DIY Systems: The Advantage

The main reason people opt for DIY security solutions? It’s usually cheaper and faster. For example, you can install a video doorbell like Ring in an afternoon or plug in a camera that connects to your smartphone. That may suffice for a small apartment, but is that enough for your home?

Where DIY Falls Short

For a security system to be truly effective, you need to cover your entire property at every entrance and eave. You’ll need 24/7 remote access to your locks, alarms, and cameras, and ideally, will have a professional monitoring company handle your alerts. After all, if you’re relying on yourself to catch every single notification, you’re bound to miss something. And what’s the point of a security system if detected crucial activity is overlooked?

We’re not all handy with wiring and technology. Most of us lack the time and expertise for a do-it-yourself project. For a reliable, high-quality security system like Alarm.com, all of your security devices must be wired to one controller and incorporate cloud-based recording. Ideally, smart lights and shades will be included in your system, too, to create custom ‘Home’ and ‘Away’ scenes for added safety.

Working with a Home Security Company

By partnering with a security company, they’ll handle the entire design and installation process for you. At Symspire, we walk our clients through their system so they have a clear understanding of how all the technology works. Additionally, a security company will provide access to sophisticated system customization. Do you want an alert anytime someone lingers for too long in the driveway? Want your lights to flash red if an alarm is triggered? A professional can make that happen for you.

Plus, you’ll pick and choose from a broader range of products while working with a security expert, as some of the best security cameras are only available through certified dealers. And if you ever experience technical difficulties, you’ll have someone to call for assistance. With DIY, you would be left to fend for yourself.

Are you still deciding between DIY or hiring a pro? Learn more about smart security systems in our blog. And if you’re ready to partner with a home surveillance expert, contact Symspire here to discuss your home’s needs today.