Friday, June 20th
2025 Alarm System Company Reviews
CPI Security
- Call for quote on systems
- Call for quote on monitoring
- "No false alarm guarantee”
- "A+” rating from the BBB
Founded in 1991, CPI Security is based in Charlotte, North Carolina. However, there is one major drawback to CPI Security, namely the small coverage area. CPI Security's service area remains very limited. You must reside in the metro areas of Knoxville, Atlanta, Myrtle Beach, Greenville, Charleston, Columbia, Wilmington, Fayetteville, Greenville, Asheville, Greensboro, Raleigh, or Charlotte within NC, SC, GA, or TN to use their alarm systems. CPI Security also requires professional installation for all of its systems, but it provides this service at no additional cost.
Call CPI for a quote
CPI Security does not disclose equipment costs or fees on its website. To get specific information, you must submit a contact form or call the company, as even their live chat directs you to a form or phone call. This lack of upfront information is disappointing compared to competitors who provide clear details online. Digging into their terms, you'll find a minimum equipment purchase of $499.
Two kits to choose from
CPI Security has pared down its kit offerings since the last time we reviewed the service. Now, there's only one prebuilt kit and a build-your-own system. Here's a quick look at the three options for setting up your alarm system:
- Essentials Security: This package secures your main entry points with four door/window sensors and an indoor motion detector. You can control your system using either a wireless control panel or the inTouch app. Free outdoor camera and touchscreen hub.
- Customized Systems: For a more personalized alarm system, you can start with the SmartHub and app controls, a motion detector, and four door/window sensors. You can then add Smart Video and Home Automation devices like indoor/outdoor cameras, thermostats, keyless door locks, and a garage door controller.
No transparency on mentoring costs
While the cost of monitoring used to be in the terms and conditions, it seems that CPI Security has removed that information. To learn how much monitoring will cost, you'll have to call CPI directly to get a quote for your home and your area.
Huge concerns about support
While CPI Security offers a "No False Alarm" Guarantee, reimbursing any fines due to system malfunctions caused by CPI's errors, this guarantee does not cover user mistakes, natural disasters, or negligence. Also, customer feedback on CPI Security's performance is mixed. While the Better Business Bureau maintains an "A+" rating for the company, the reviews on the BBB show a 1.5-star average rating. Many customer reviews also rate the alarm systems as average, poor, or bad. The main issue cited is poor customer service, with some customers reporting long hold times when seeking support for malfunctioning systems. One customer mentioned needing to stay at a hotel because the alarm wouldn't stop, and they couldn't reach CPI Security for assistance. This raises concerns about the reliability of their support.
Check out higher-rated services for better support
Considering that CPI Security has a restricted service area, requires potential customers to interact with sales representatives instead of providing transparent terms and fees online, and has a track record of unsatisfactory customer service despite a strong BBB rating, it doesn't rank highly in our review. These factors contribute to CPI Security's low ranking among alarm system providers, suggesting that you might have a better experience with another company.
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The 10 Best Alarm System Companies
Where Can You Find the Best Alarm Systems?
Whether you rent or own your home, security is a top priority. With the costs of living and the need to protect your residence, your belongings, and yourself, finding the right security solution is an important balancing act of top-notch service with value. Among the many ways out there to protect your home, alarm systems are gaining popularity for their reliability and effectiveness.
If budget is a concern, alarm systems provide a range of options that let you control your spending. You can decide how much to invest and what features to include. If you choose to skip professional monitoring or plan to add components later, alarm systems make these adjustments straightforward.
Alarm System Company FAQ
Continued from above...
Why worry about the security of your home or buying low-tech locks and keys when you can choose an alarm system that offers both simplicity and robust protection? When choosing an alarm system, your first decision is whether you want to monitor your home yourself using apps and camera feeds sent right to your smartphone or opt for 24/7 professional monitoring.
While professional monitoring adds extra costs, many find peace of mind knowing that their home is watched around the clock and that these services can trigger the alarm and even call law enforcement for you in the event of an emergency. Alternatively, you can save money by choosing to monitor the system yourself and keeping a close eye on alerts and notifications.
Next, think about the equipment you need for your alarm system. At a minimum, you'll likely need door sensors for all first-floor entry points and a panel or touchscreen hub for arming and disarming the system. Other popular components include indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, and sensors for smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide.
Some companies allow you to purchase equipment individually, while others offer packages with the option to add extra components as needed. Keep in mind that adding advanced features like video cameras with storage may increase your monthly costs, but you have the freedom to choose what works best for you.
Now that you have an idea of what you want in an alarm system, how do you choose the right provider? Here are some important factors to consider:
- Value. What do you get for your money? Does the company provide good service for the equipment you install? Are the components high-quality and durable?
- Contracts. Will you need to sign a contract? Sometimes the cost of the equipment is included in the monitoring fee, which could lock you into a long-term commitment. If you don't want this, you may need to look at different options.
- Satisfaction guarantee. What if you're not happy with your system? Can you get your money back? Does the provider offer a trial period or satisfaction guarantee?
- Reputation. What do other homeowners say about their experience? Look for alarm systems that are easy to operate and responsive when there's an alert. Customer reviews and ratings from the Better Business Bureau can provide valuable insights into the system's reliability and the company's customer service.
To help you simplify your security, Top Consumer Reviews has reviewed and ranked the best alarm systems available today. We hope this information helps you find the best solution to protect your home and loved ones at a price you can afford. This way, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home, family, and belongings are safe, allowing you to focus on the things that matter most.
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