This article is courtesy of our partner The Personal.
With so many options available, finding the right home security system can take time. Here are some tips to guide your research.
Features to look for when shopping for a home security system
No matter which option or add-on you choose, safety and peace of mind should always be your end goal. As you shop, keep an eye out for these important components.
Wireless connectivity
Smart home security systems allow you to monitor your property wherever you are through your mobile device. For example, you could choose a system you can arm and disarm remotely and never have to wonder if you took care of it before you left. Some systems also offer smart locks, doorbell cameras and sensors that can detect other types of unexpected incidents.
Most smart home security systems also send notifications to your phone if the system senses an incident. This way, you’ll always be in the loop and be able to act quickly to prevent or limit damage from many of the most common home insurance losses (e.g. water leaks and freezing temperatures).
24-hour monitored care
Centrally monitored alarm systems communicate with a monitoring centre 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means that whenever an alarm signal is received, the police or fire department will be contacted right away.
Monitored protection helps ensure that your home is taken care of in case of an unexpected event. However, you may have to pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee to access this service, which will be in addition to the cost of the security system. That said, be sure to tell your insurer if you decide to equip your house with a centrally monitored alarm system as you may be eligible for a discount on your home insurance.
Keep in mind that with unmonitored systems, you may not have to pay an extra fee for professional monitoring, but you won’t get the added assurance that an emergency service will be automatically dispatched to your home in case of an emergency.
Comprehensive detection options
Some home security systems include sensors that can detect different types of incidents that could lead to potential damage to your property, such as:
- Intrusions
- Smoke
- Water leaks
- Freezing temperatures
- Power outages
If these services are just as important to you, consider a home security option that acts as a single source for all your needs.
Reliable support
The ideal security system comes with equally reliable assistance whenever you need it. If you have an issue with a device or need help with installation, you should be able to contact the manufacturer and count on their responsiveness.
Take advantage of prevention programs
Having a home security system and insurance policy that fit your needs is a simple way to ensure greater peace of mind. When shopping for a security system, be mindful that some insurance providers offer exclusive programs to help prevent home insurance claims from happening in the first place.
You may want to take a look at the AlertTM program, a prevention solution that includes a wireless home security system and professional monitoring service operated by Roost®. Additional fees apply for the system and monitoring service.
To find out more, call 1-888-476-8737.
Or visit thepersonal.com/ospemembers
This article is being provided by the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers on behalf of The Personal which has a group sponsorship agreement with regards to home and auto insurance for our members.
The Personal refers to The Personal General Insurance Inc. in Quebec and The Personal Insurance Company in all other provinces and territories.
The Roost word mark and logo are trademarks of Roost, Inc., and have been registered in the United States and in certain other jurisdictions.
AlertTM is a trademark of Desjardins General Insurance Group Inc., used under licence.
The Alert program is available in Canada only: in Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories.
Some cities, towns, or municipalities require you to register or to obtain a permit or authorization certificate before you install a home security system. Please ensure you comply with all applicable requirements.
