Re: Recommendations for Alarm system in San jose/Sillicon Valley

["Robert L Bass" <no-sales-spam@bassburglaralarms>]

> If its important, Bay Alarm is family owned
> and based in the bay area...

I've had numerous calls from unhappy Bay
Alarm customers who've decided to replace
or improve systems they received.  Most
complain of slow response and poor service.
There have also been complaints here in
ASA on occasion.  The customer may or
may not be affected by this, but the company
has also been accused of operating illegally
with a lapsed license for years.  That matter
has apparently been resolved as they now
have a license.

Side note: As an online alarm retailer
catering to DIYers, licensing isn't required
of my company.

> You should call at least four or five
> companies and get written bids. Ask
> friends/family who they are using for their
> home security system contractor, call
> those companies and request written
> bids.

That is excellent advice.  The OP should
avoid "authorized dealers" -- independent
contractors associated with any of the
following national companies:  ADT,
Protection 1 and Monitronics.  Also, stay
away from Sonitrol.  Those are among the
worst.

Note, however, that ADT "corporate" (not the
authorized dealers) has a good reputation.