I had my security system put in yesterday.  The main reason is simply peace of mind.  My neighbors all have security systems or at least signs for security systems.  Crooks generally take the path of least resistance, the house with no security system.  That left me more vulnerable then if none of my neighbors had one.  Since my neighborhood is still recovering from some of its dark days, it was really a no brainer.  It took the gentleman about 4 hours to install.  Fairly professional job.  Everything went well, except the purchase.  I goofed on that side.

My sister gave me a contact of someone to call and get the system installed.  I called and the sales rep came over within about 45 minutes.  I was actually pretty impressed with that part.  She sold me the system.  $400.  I really didn’t think twice about it.  I thought I had and ADT discount since I had looked about their prices online recently.  An hour after I signed the contract a gentleman walked by stating that they were offering free systems to new customers.  He was wearing an ADT t-shirt, had all the right paperwork, etc etc.  Thinking this was another ADT rep, I gave him my name and number to call back.

Turns out they were both security system brokerage firms.  The second company stated I had 72 hours to back out of my contract with the first company and still sign up with them.  Here’s the catch, they asked my not to tell the other firm why.  Well that perked my interest.  I guess one authorized dealer is not allowed to steal customers from another dealer.  Red flag number one.  The 2nd red flag came when they claimed to be giving me an $1800 system free.  I inquired what was in the system.  Same components that were in the system I already purchased.  Come to find out as well, they tack on hidden fees and I would only be saving around $200 if I went their route.  Red Flag number three.  Three strikes your out.

I decided to go with the first company.  Yes, it probably cost slightly more, but they were honest with me, had a good reputation of follow up customer service, and were very prompt.  They get my service hands down.  If track records with shady companies have told me anything, the 2nd company would have cost me far more in headaches and low customer service.  No thank you.

So lesson learned, security companies sell their products through brokers.  Shop around before you buy and evaluate their service.  Sad part on this one, it wasn’t till after this whole hiccup that I remembered someone telling me this months ago.  Dang CRS strikes again.  Some lessons just have to be learned the hard way I guess.  I won’t make this mistake again though.  Another note to others.  When you move, your security system can go with you.  They will move the system.  Just make sure you don’t advertise security system with your house.  That is unless it will help sell the house and it would be cheaper to buy a new system.  Food for thought.  Good luck.