Tips: What To Look For In A Reputable Alarm Company

The warmer weather signals the start of the season when your home can be more vulnerable to a break in. Crime statistics indicate a traditional spike in burglaries during the months of May through September. Along with the rise in crime comes an associated interest in home security systems to help prevent burglaries.

Working to meet the demand and raise awareness about the value of alarm systems, security companies across the country use the summer months and well-established technique of going door to door to offer home alarm systems and services. The Electronic Security Association (ESA) advises consumers what to look for in a reputable alarm company.

"The vast majority of security salespeople are honest, hardworking and abide by the ESA Code of Ethics. Regrettably a small number of dishonest individuals can negatively influence public opinion about door-to-door sales," said Merlin Guilbeau, ESA Executive Director.

"This time of year, consumer agencies such as the Better Business Bureau and state regulators report an uptick in the number of complaints nationwide concerning improper door-to-door sales practices," said Guilbeau. "Unethical salespeople put a black eye on the entire industry by taking advantage of consumers."

Before buying any security system, ESA and consumer agencies urge consumers to:

  • Avoid any offer that sounds too good to be true or offers anything free, claims to provide upgrades or has a time limit.
  • Ask for a local telephone number to contact the security company to ensure that the number is legitimate.
  • Contact local law enforcement if you feel uncomfortable in any way.
  • Always contact your current alarm company before signing any new contract so that you understand the status of your current contract.

To encourage ethical sales behavior in its members, ESA has adopted a strict code of ethics that addresses consumer concerns and provides a process for consumer complaints. The new code includes a requirement for salespeople to carry a photo identification card, discontinue a sales presentation at the customer's request, disclose all terms and conditions in writing and not make false statements in order to secure a sale. Consumers can find more information about the ESA Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct at http://www.alarm.org.

In addition to high-pressure sales tactics often aimed at the elderly, homeowners are cautioned to be aware of these statements that should not be used to coerce a sale:

  • Stating police will not respond to older alarm systems.
  • Implying that the salesperson is from the alarm owner's current company.
  • Offering free system upgrades.
  • Pressuring the consumer to make a decision quickly because the offer is only good that day.
  • Offering a substantial "discount" for placing an alarm company sign on the property.
  • To guard against these types of sales practices, more than thirty states have licensing requirements for alarm companies to ensure they are following the laws of that state. You can find a list of states with these regulations at http://www.alarm.org.

Featured

  • An Inside Look From Napco at ISC West

    Get a look into the excitement at ISC West 2025 from Napco. Hear from some of their top-tech executives live from the show floor. Read Now

    • Industry Events
    • ISC West
  • Upping the Ante

    I am not a betting man in terms of cards, dice, blackjack or that wheel with the black marble racing around the circumference of a spinning wheel, but I would bet on the success of ISC West this year. Read Now

    • Industry Events
    • ISC West
  • It's Show Time

    I am one of those people that likes to see things get bigger and better. As advertised, ISC West is going to be bigger (more exhibitors) and better (more attendees). It’s show time in Las Vegas. Read Now

    • Industry Events
    • ISC West
  • SIA Releases New Report on Operational Security Technology

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has released an impactful new resource – Operational Security Technology: Principles, Challenges and Achieving Mission-Critical Outcomes Leveraging OST. Read Now

New Products

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.