First Person: A Multi-Tiered Approach to Home Security

What kind of home security system, if any, should I have that would deters burglars? How much should I budget to spend to prevent a home invasion? In the past decade as a homeowner, I have answered these questions differently. At times, I went with the most basic solution that had a one time cost of new hardware. At other times opted for a monitored system that cost $30-40 a month to maintain in addition to installation cost. Here are some options I considered.

Basic home security

As a brand new homeowner, I used common sense to thwart intruders. My basic home security system consisted of a upgraded door lock and deadbolt. Entry level brands such as Defiant and Kwikset cost about $25-30. Higher end brands with sophisticated deterrent systems such as Baldwin, Schlage or Medeco cost $50 to upwards of $100, and required a locksmith to install. When I was traveling, I put a stop on my newspaper and mail delivery. I also put a few lamps on timers in different rooms. Later, I continued to use these basic security measures and added other simple measures, like keeping my sprinkler system on a timer and installing external motion activated lights over the garage and front and back yards.

Monitored home alarm system

A monitored home alarm system including motion sensors from a national security company like ADT, Brinks or Slomin's Shield typically costs $100 to install and $30-40 a month to monitor for break ins. Cellphone and battery backups (in case of loss of phone service or power) are often extra. Fire and smoke alarm monitoring typically costs another $35. My 3 year contract promised a fixed rate and it was transferable to a new owner for the same house or to me if I moved. It also got me a 20% discount on my home insurance, which amounted to over $100 and essentially paid for 3 months of monitoring.

In fact, when I moved into my house, it had an existing alarm system. The previous owner had disconnected the service but left the pincode. Before I got my own home security system, I was able to use to make sure the doors were locked (indication on keypad) and even use an audible alarm in conjunction with a pin code. Of course, the "Protected by XYZ Alarm Company" stickers did not hurt either.

Video monitoring

Video monitoring, a must have for retail businesses, can also come in handy for homeowners with pets or young children, who are cared for at home while parents are at work. Recently I shopped around for a wireless 4 camera security system with DVR that cost $1500-2500 to install. The system showed and recorded the camera feed on a DVR and monitor, while it also streamed a live online video feed securely on the PC or smart phone. Once installed, there was no cost to monitor (although monitoring services were available from certain vendors).

Common sense

According to security experts, a well-lit neighborhood that has a high density of security systems deters most miscreants. However, despite this, lack of discretion and common sense can defeat the toughest security system. For example, a couple of my neighbors routinely leave a home key under a flower pot, doormat or above the door frame. I remember when I was selling my home, one realtor asked for the security code to my alarm system. Many of my friends share their upcoming travel plans on social media like Facebook, Twitter or personal blogs. In cases such as these, investing in a home security system can do little in providing security from home invasions or other crimes.

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First Person: A Multi-Tiered Approach to Home Security