Knowing when it’s time to upgrade your home security system is an important part of keeping your family, business and property safe. However, life changes can often creep up on you, and you never know what precautions you need to take until it’s too late. Discover some of the top reasons our customers choose to upgrade and see if you’re in the same boat.
Your Equipment is Outdated
Start by making sure you aren’t using a security system still running on the 2G spectrum. If you are, that system is no longer capable of keeping your family secure because it is being phased out in favor of the newer, faster systems. The 2G devices will not contact emergency services because they no longer have a functional network to contact. (Note: If you are an existing customer, we have already reached out to you and had any units replaced.)
Next, determine if your security system is still working with your lifestyle. The latest alarm system technology lets your home stay more connected to you, and the authorities, than ever before. Your security system equipment should be able to communicate not only with first responders, through things like cameras with video alarm verification capability, but also with you through your smartphone and smartphone apps that notify you immediately if the security of your home is at risk.
Upgrades or Additions to Your Home
Have you recently replaced any doors or windows in your house? Or, maybe you’ve added a room or redesigned the exterior of your home? Any home improvements or updates you’ve done to your house could warrant an overhaul to how your security system works and the best placement for sensors or cameras.
New Family Members in the House
Maybe you’ve recently moved your elderly mother into the home, and her eyesight isn’t great. You could make it easier on her and yourself with a larger, more visual experience of the Honeywell Tuxedo panel. Also, if you’re dealing with a loved one that has memory problems, a security camera would allow you to check in on them from time to time to ensure they haven’t fallen or decided to leave the house unexpectedly.
Additionally, if you’ve welcomed a new child into the home, you’ll want to keep a closer eye on them with a security camera — accessible from wherever you are thanks to Honeywell Total connect.
Crime Has Increased in the Neighborhood
Has a recent wave of crimes hit your area, and no one has caught footage of the thieves? Be the hero of your neighborhood and add a surveillance camera to your property to capture footage that you can send to your neighbors on the Next Door app along with the local authorities. In the process, you’ll keep would-be criminals from picking your house as an easy target. It’s a win-win situation because they know if they hit your home, the footage is going to end up online, and the last thing they want to do is get caught!
If you need an upgraded home security system, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We can help you pick the upgrades to solve life’s little changes and challenges.
In just the last month, news reports from across the country have popped up to let consumers know how to avoid scams and what to look for when answering the door. Take a look at just a few of the headline stories we’ve compiled since our last blog post one month ago:
May 26, 2017 – Home Security Company Agrees to Pay Wyoming $100k in Door-to-Door Sales Settlement, http://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/home-security-company-agrees-to-pay-wyoming-k-in-door/article_6940b888-4010-532d-807f-f00264b13002.html
From the article, “The Wyoming Attorney General’s office came to the agreement with Vivint Inc. after a multi-year review of the company’s door-to-door sales practices, the attorney general’s office announced in a news release Friday.
“After that investigation, the Attorney General alleged that Vivint misrepresented the discounted price of its equipment and installation, failed to provide timely refunds after consumers cancelled within the three-day cancellation period provided by the Consumer Protection Act, and engaged in unlawful door-to-door sales tactics,” according to the office’s website.”
In just the last month, news reports from across the country have popped up to let consumers know how to avoid scams and what to look for when answering the door. Take a look at just a few of the headline stories we’ve compiled since our last blog post one month ago:
From the article, “Another door-to-door scam that’s bringing complaints in the region involves home security systems.
“They may say they’re with ADT or Protection One or another well-known company,” Hegarty says. “What we’re learning is, a lot of times, the bad actors use reputable names like ADT just to get a foothold, get in your door and get you to switch contracts and get you engaged in a deal that’s not going to be favorable to you.”
June 5, 2017 – Here’s How to Avoid Scams from Door-to-Door Solicitations, http://www.macon.com/news/business/article154467764.html
From the article, “Home security systems: The BBB often receives complaints about companies that falsely claim to be working with or for your existing security company. Under the pretense of upgrading your contract, they sign you to a new contract with their company. Now you’re committed to having two companies perform the work of one. And getting double billed. Other issues include salespeople who tell you that your current company has gone out of business, or your current system is outdated and is about to stop working.”
From the article, “Miguel Segura, Regional Director with the Better Business Bureau , says there are a few things you know before someone comes knocking on your door. Watch below:
If you have questions about home security scams or are looking to invest in a home security system for your residence, Fortress Security has over 15 years experience and is here for all your security needs. Give us a call or fill out an online to form to request a free quote today.
It’s fairly common knowledge that installing – and using – a home security system can save you money on home insurance costs. Having a more secured home means you are less at-risk for loss, and your home insurance provider recognizes that with decreased premiums.
However, many homeowners don’t realize that with a few additional features, your home insurance costs can continue to go down – sometimes by as much as 25%, according to Bankrate.com. Things like living inside of a gated community, being a part of an HOA, using the same insurance carrier for both home and auto coverage, or installing updated wiring can all contribute to home insurance savings.
But, you can’t control all of those variables. With a home security system, you can. So, when looking at adding or updating a home security system, here are some of the best ways to save money, earn a return on your investment, and better protect your home and family.
Homeowners insurance, according to a Federal Reserve Board estimate, costs between $300 to $1,000 annually. With the right setup, your alarm system could save you up to 20% on homeowners insurance each year, saving you hundreds of dollars.
What You Can Do To Save Money on Homeowner’s Insurance
SAVE (1-2%) DEAD BOLTS
– Every exterior door – your front door, back door, possibly a door leading out of your garage – should all have dead bolts at a minimum. These are easy to install and can be quickly and inexpensively updated.
SAVE (5%) SMOKE DETECTORS
– Make sure your home has properly installed and functioning smoke detectors. You should have a working smoke detector in every bedroom in your home. And, for 2- or 3-story homes, you’ll need at least one smoke detector on each floor of the house.
SAVE (5 – 20%) SECURITY CAMERAS
– According to The Huffington Post, homes that are not monitored by video surveillance equipment are 300 times more likely to be broken into. While not all insurance carriers will give you a discount for using security cameras, some will, and even without a direct cost savings on insurance, your home will be exponentially less at risk for burglary than it would without cameras.
SAVE (10 – 20%) CENTRAL MONITORING
– Check with your home security system provider, or the companies that you’re researching, to make sure your alarm system is connected to a central monitoring station and is not just an audible alarm. Central monitoring means that beyond just loud alarms, your system is triggering a response for your system’s monitoring team and first responder alerts.
Interested in learning how a new or updated alarm system can work for you and save you money? Learn more about our services or contact us today to see how we can help.
Beware of Deceptive Door-to-Door Home Security System Sales This Summer
During the summertime, it’s not uncommon for companies to try to increases sales and revenue by dispersing sales agents into the field to take part in door-to-door sales. Unfortunately, this type of “cold-calling” often comes with misleading sales reps who will do whatever it takes to try and close as many deals possible. And now, according to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), they are seeing an uptick in complaints about home security companies, in particular, who are using deceptive and aggressive sales tactics to persuade homeowners into buying unnecessary, and sometimes subpar, home security systems and equipment.
Warnings, which have been issued nationwide, are urging homeowners to use caution when considering what security system sales agents have to offer and to beware of security system scams. At Fortress, we make it our mission to make sure homeowners feel safe and protected, which includes keeping unethical companies and their unnecessary or low-quality equipment at bay. Check out our tips for spotting a potential scam and how to deal with an aggressive sales agent below:
How Do I Spot A Home Security System Scam?
Door-to-door sales representatives from the various companies that have had complaints filed against them have uses a variety of approaches and pitches to get unsuspecting victims to buy an alarm system and monitoring services. Keep in mind, even if you already have a security system in place, you are not automatically immune to these door-to-door sales reps – in fact, some specifically target customers of other security companies.
If you or someone you know is approached by one of these sales agents, here’s what to look out for:
High pressure sales tactics and limited-time offers – If a sales rep is making an offer than is only available for a limited-time and claim that you need to “act now,” don’t give in right away. Instead, take the time to do your research and make an informed decision. A reputable seller will always give you time to think through the deal and will make an appointment to return at another time.
Equipment upgrades and replacements – If a sales rep mentions or implies that they are from your existing security company and that they’re there to “upgrade” or “replace” your current security system, it’s likely not the case. Your current security company should always inform you about upgrading or replacing equipment before a rep arrives at your residence.
Current security company has gone out of business – If a sales rep claims that your current company has gone out of business and that they are taking over the accounts, or that the two companies have merged, call your current monitoring company to confirm before buying any new equipment and signing new contracts. In most cases, you would be notified of a change like this by mail or telephone, not by an unannounced visit by a representative.
Requesting to enter your home or refusing to leave – If a sales rep is trying to make their way into your home, do not feel obligated to allow them in. It is not impolite or rude to tell a salesperson you’re not interested, and it’s best to say “no” on the doorstep rather than to trying to get them to leave once they’re inside. Additionally, if the representative continues to pressure you or becomes aggressive after you’ve asked them to leave, do not hesitate to call the police.
How Do I Avoid Home Security Scams?
Before letting a sales rep inside your home or before even discussing doing business with them, get as much information about the rep and company as you can. Some information you can ask for could include:
Company name
Company address
Representative name
Representative’s license number
State that issued the license
Name under which the license is filed
Other ways to avoid any sort of scam is to simply do your homework before ever committing to or getting involved with a new company. For example:
Choose a reputable business.
Get recommendations from your homeowners or renters insurance carrier.
Contact multiple companies before making a selection.
Ask about all charges up front.
Know the ins and outs of your contract.
What If I Have Fallen Victim to a Home Security Scam?
According to the BBB, almost every contract has a clause to get you out of it. So, if you sign something you later regret, there’s a good chance you can get out of the deal. Also, it’s important to keep in mind that with deals like door-to-door sales, you have a window of time after signing a contract to cancel. The Federal Trade Commission’s “Cooling-Off Rule” gives you three business days to cancel if you signed the contract in your home or at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. You have a right to change your mind, without giving a reason for canceling your purchase, even if the equipment has already been installed.
If you have questions about home security scams or are looking to invest in a home security system for your residence, Fortress Security has over 15 years experience and is here for all your security needs. Give us a call or fill out an online to form to request a free quote today.
Do-it-yourself home security systems have become increasingly popular over recent years. Homeowners, and renters, see DIY home security systems as an easy and inexpensive way to protect their home and their belongings. And, with a slew of home security products on the market, and thousands of DIY YouTube videos, an entire DIY system can be purchased and set up in a matter of hours. Sounds pretty easy, right?
Buyer beware! Many DIY home security systems can bring on more headache and hassle than security and can leave homes and families more vulnerable than they were before the system was installed.
To find out why DIY home security systems might not be the best solution for your security needs, we’ve compiled the top concerns and problems we hear about DIY security.
1.Thieves Can Easily Hack into Your DIY Systems
Far and away, the number one problem with DIY systems is that they can be easily taken over, turned off or manipulated by thieves and crooks. Instances like these have been well documented – by Forbes, Business Insider, SecuritySales.com, and more.
According to an article from Forbes last year, many mass market security devices can be easily hacked into and compromised. “Anyone who can locate a SimpliSafe owner can use basic hardware and software, bought for between $50 and $250, to harvest customer PINs and turn alarms off at a distance of up to 200 yards away.”
2. Faulty Installation Can Mean A False Sense of Protection
Another problem with the DIY’ers and YouTubers of home security systems is that a 20-minute installation video can make a very important security feature install look much simpler than it really is. Professional technicians go to school and receive extensive training for this very purpose. Protecting your home and your family shouldn’t be left to chance, and by attempting to install your own system, you run the risk of setting up equipment incorrectly or in the wrong places, and leaving your home unprotected.
3. Customization is Key to Properly Securing Your Home
Every home is different. Everyone’s family and lifestyle is different. Your home security system needs to protect both, and that’s why one simple system won’t work for everyone.
How many entry points does your home have? How many windows do you have that are easy for potential burglars to access? How many exterior blind spots do you have that are hidden from view of the street or your neighbors? Or, maybe you need more lifestyle sensors, like remote keyless entry for school-age children and cameras that let you know when they’ve safely come home from school in the middle of the afternoon?
All of these are problems with solutions easily provided by professional home security systems. Don’t try to piece together different products and create your own unique (and overly complicated) DIY system. Let an industry expert identify the right types of products and setup for your specific home and lifestyle needs.
4. Poor Security Equipment Quality
Products created for mass market consumption can often sacrifice quality to make production and costs of goods decrease and keep prices low. This means that a lot of the out-of-the-box home security products that you can buy at retailers or online will be of a much lower quality than products provided and relied upon by professional security system providers.
Don’t take our word for it, though. Check out what consumers and have said about SimpliSafe, LiveWatch, and others.
5. No Smart Home Technology and Integration
Ok, so that’s not exactly true. There are ways to install and rig DIY security products for SmartHome use, however, this can definitely lead to vulnerability issues and faulty performance when not done correctly.
You also have far fewer options to integrate with a DIY system than you do with a system setup and installed by a team of professionals. And, as with any new technology and integrations, you want to be sure to leave yourself ways to upgrade and enhance the tech as newer, “smart”er versions become available, which can be limiting with specific manufacturers and product lines.
6. Monitoring Can Be Tough
Think about it. Do you really want a minimalist, low-grade service responsible for safely monitoring and responding to your family’s security needs?
The marketing message of $10/month, no contract “monitoring” service sounds attractive, but remember, you get what you pay for.
With a professional services company monitoring your home, you’re guaranteed a 24/7 central monitoring service that can dispatch police, fire and medical aid immediately.
Want to learn more about your security system options? Contact Fortress today.
Making a move is always a stressful process. But, when you find the next perfect home for you and your family, the excitement overtakes the stress, and suddenly you can’t move fast enough. An amazing floor plan, great location, and fantastic schools- this is the house for you! Before you make this major purchase, though, don’t overlook your new home’s security. It’s always a good idea to thoroughly vet the home’s safety features. A few questions to ask to know what you’re buying into are: what kind of home security system does the house have?; If it doesn’t currently have one, can a security system easily be added? Can the home security system easily be upgraded to add home automation? If major upgrades are necessary, is that something that can be included in negotiations of your new home?
Below is a home safety checklist to help you ask these questions and more, and make an informed decision on the safety profile of your new home.
Home Security System and Automation
Statistics have repeatedly shown that a security system is the single best home invasion deterrent. The home you are looking at might already have one, and if so, check it out and see if it is up to par. First, find the location of all the motion sensors, does the placement both inside and outside of the home make sense? If not, consider adding more. Also, all doors and windows should have sensors to let you know when they’re opened or closed. Make sure big windows also have glass-breaking sensors. If not, that is also an easy add-on. Video cameras both visible and hidden are great safety features. Smart home automation can allow you to watch the surveillance video from virtually anywhere. Other smart home upgrades are also worth looking into when you are improving a house’s safety features. For example, imagine one hectic morning you forgot to turn on the alarm before you left for work. Rest easy. An app on your smart phone can let you turn on your system from afar. Or, a simple text from a smart app can let you know someone is at your door, and you can view the live video feed either from your home or from somewhere else. Smart locks can help you make sure the door is locked, or you can let your housekeeper in and out without having to give them a key. Smart home upgrades are an easy and affordable way to ensure safety at your new home. According to Consumer Reports, smart devices can also increase your home’s value, on average bumping up 3-5%. Learn about easy, smart home upgrades here.
Use Online Tools
There are many online tools to help you vet the safety of the neighborhood. Spotcrime.com is one of the most popular crime tracking sites. Simply enter an address and the website will use data it’s gathered from law enforcement agencies, and the news, to tell you what crimes have been committed in the area. Get a comprehensive list of registered sex offenders in an area through familywatchdog.us. Nextdoor.com is also a great site to join and browse the crime and safety section of the neighborhood you are considering. This online community forum will give you direct access to the news, opinions and concerns of residents in your neighborhood. Of course, a good real estate agent should have some good information regarding crime in the area, and you can always call the local police precinct and get statistics.
Landscape Review
Love the landscaping at the new potential house? That’s great, but you should take a close look at safety concerns. Make sure it is not too overgrown. The bushes and trees should be trimmed, especially near windows or doors where burglars can hide. If they aren’t trimmed up, make sure it is in your budget or easy to do once you make the purchase.
It’s All About the Lighting
You also want to check the outdoor lighting. Is there a working porch light? Is the perimeter of the outside of the house well lit? Are motion detection lights in areas that need it, outside the garage and back door? Check out the house at night if possible and see if there are areas you see that need lights added. If so, can lights and motion sensors easily be added?
All Systems Go?
Inside the house, you want to make sure all the electrical systems are up to date. Outdated electrical systems can put your house at risk for a fire. Gas appliances that don’t properly work can leave you at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. You want to make sure that during your home inspection all the mechanical systems are checked out and are functioning properly and up to current code.
Keep it Solid
You want all exterior doors to be metal or solid wood. If there is glass screen door, you want to make sure it’s reinforced glass so it can’t be easily broken. Do the doors open and shut well and have good locks? Deadbolt locks at least 1 inch long can provide great protection. Do the windows have locks to keep criminals out? On the flip side, can the windows be opened in case of emergency?
Say Howdy to the Neighbors
After all of that, still interested in purchasing that home? Get out and talk to the neighbors. Do they seem like they would be good neighbors? Are they friendly, available and aware? Good neighbors watch out for each other. They keep an eye on each other’s houses too. If someone suspicious is walking down the alley, you will probably get an advisory call. Another great way to assess safety in a neighborhood is to check out the community space. Is the green space cared for well? Is there a sense of pride and visible upkeep in the area? This all shows that people value their neighborhood and its safety.
A well-protected home provides a great sense security and peace of mind. Fortress Security offers all the security features you need to make sure your new home keeps you safe and sound. Give us a call or fill out an online form to request a free quote today.
Simply put, an automated home security system means your home is programmed to your lifestyle needs, wants and preferences. Want your lights to come on when the sun goes down, regardless of if you’re at home or not? Maybe you need to let someone in, but you can’t get to the door? Or, for budgetary reasons, do you want to set your home’s temperature to optimal settings only when someone’s in the house? All of this, and more, are some of the conveniences that come with an automated home system.
With a smart home and an automated system, you can arm and disarm your security system and camera system according to a schedule, remotely control camera monitoring and recording, manage your temperature settings, turn lights on and off, lock and unlock doors, and manage major appliance controls. Just set it and forget it.
The lights are hung, the tree is up, the candles are flickering. The holidays are meant to be merry and bright, yet, there are so many hidden fire dangers during this time of year. Fires are more common and more deadly now than during any other season. According to the American Red Cross, nearly 47,000 fires occur during the winter holidays, claiming more than 500 lives, causing more than 2,200 injuries, and costing $554 million in property damage. Don’t let your house become a fire statistic. Consider these ways to keep you family and home safe through the New Year.
Candle Safety:
Candle fires are 4x as likely to occur in December as any other month of the year. They set the tablescape, and their warm flickering glow puts you in the holiday spirit. But, when it comes to open flames, you can never be too careful. Never leave a candle unattended. Also, make sure your candles are on a steady base and have a protective glass covering around them (like a votive holder or a hurricane for larger candles). Place them a foot away from anything else so they don’t catch other decorations on fire. Make sure they are out of children’s reach. Kids are drawn to fire, so make sure your candles don’t become a fun “plaything” for the kids. And, after a holiday party or get together be sure to go through the whole house and make sure all candles are blown out.
Or, why not try an alternate to the traditional candle? The new LED candles come in all colors and shapes and flicker just like the real thing, without the worry.
With Halloween just around the corner, moms and dads are struggling to find time to find the perfect costumes for their kids and get spooky decorations in place. Having fun is the focus of the day, so it’s easy to forget to take some security precautions.
There are many great lists of Halloween safety tips for protecting your kids as they go from house to house. But the holiday is also known for some dangerous behaviors, which can impact the security of your home.
There are two common kinds of problems more common on October 31. You may have misguided “pranksters” doing accidental or intentional minor property damage. The other risk is a bit more serious: criminals using the cover of heightened activity to stake out a break-in target.
While they differ in severity, both types of troublemakers are going to approach houses that seem to offer the least chance of getting caught. Read on to learn a few ways to make your house an unlikely choice for either group. Read More »
Unseemly as it may be, home burglars treat their crime like a trade and take preparations long before breaking into a home. Selecting a target is their first step. So how do thieves decide which house to rob and which to pass up?
Burglars Look For:
Open blinds. Don’t put your electronics, jewelry box, or extra car keys on display for anyone who looks through your windows. By being able to map out where everything is located, a thief knows he can plot out break-in and get valuable items. Close the blinds, particularly in rooms with expensive possessions. Read More »
