Re: Help choosing a home alarm system in British Columbia, Canada

[Frank Olson <Use_the_email_links@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

ppwlee@xxxxxxxxx wrote:
> Can someone please suggest a reliable home security company? I am
> moving into a new home in Burnaby British Columbia and like to look at
> what's available for home protection.
>
> I am evaluating the following:
>
> ADT
> Alarmforce
> Chubb
> Protectron
> Voxcom
>
> Any feedback on goods/bads from above list would be appreciated.
> Thanks.
>
>
> Peter
>


Take a look around the neighbourhood.  What company's signs do you see
around?  The companies you list are all large "nationals" (which isn't
necessarily a "bad thing").  The only one on the list you supplied that
I'd tend to "shy" away from is "Alarmfarce".  FWIW, their "superior two
way voice alarm" just isn't all that "superior".  One tip:  If you're
shopping on "price" I'd suggest you ask all the companies you invite to
quote on the same type of system and basic components.  That way you're
comparing "apples" to "apples".

There are two different types of systems out there.  For a more detailed
explanation, have a look at http://www.yoursecuritysource.com/faqs.
Choosing between a "perimeter" and "interior" system depends on what it
is you consider important.  And don't forget "the basics" (it's also a
good idea to "harden" your home's entry points, trim high shrubs or
hedges that a perp could hide in, employ motion sensor lights around the
outside, etc.).  I'd suggest calling a couple of the local companies in
your "Yellow Pages".  Do your homework.  Make sure you ask them to leave
a copy of their contract for you to review and don't succumb to sales
pressure (not that the good firms use those kinds of tactics).  All of
the companies in BC are licensed and their staff are as well.  Signing
any contract (where the rep actually comes to your home) has a mandatory
"cooling off" period (where you can cancel the contract without penalty).

Avoid the "low down" systems because they usually carry a stiff monthly
"fee" that will cost you more in the long run.  Make sure you understand
what it is you're signing and that anything the salesman "says" (or
"offers") should be backed up in writing.

Is your home pre-wired?  This often makes installing a system easier and
depending on the quality of the pre-wire you could wind up with an
excellent system at a very reasonable cost.

Have a look at some of the features and benefits of the different
manufacturer's systems (in most cases you can download the user manuals
which may help guide your decision as to what you want:

http://www.dsc.com
http://www.paradox.ca
http://www.ademco.com
http://www.gesecurity.com
http://www.elkproducts.com

Good Luck!

Frank Olson
http://www.yoursecuritysource.com