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Abode Review

Sunday, February 9th

2025 Canadian Home Security Reviews

Abode Review 2 Star Rating

Abode

2 Star Rating
  • Kits or bundles from $187.31 to $535.19 (CAD)
  • Monitoring for $9.35 to $30.76 (CAD) per month
  • 30-day return policy
  • Available everywhere but Quebec

Abode was founded in 2014 with headquarters located in San Francisco, California. In 2018, Abode secured a majority stake investment from Nice S.p.A., an Italian tech company renowned globally for its home automation, security, and smart home solutions. Specializing in integrated automation for various systems, including gates, garage doors, solar shading, parking, wireless alarms, and security, Abode was able to reach international markets.

Offered across Canada

Despite its inception as an American-based company, Abode is all about international security. The front page of the site says right away that the Abode DIY system is a top-rated choice in Canada. We reached out to their customer service team to get some extra details about coverage in Canada as well as the differentiation between USD and CAD on the site. Here's what we found: Abode offers both cellular backup and professional monitoring across Canada. The only exception is that professional monitoring is not available in Quebec at this time. However, Abode only offers purchases in USD, which could make the systems more expensive for customers shopping in CAD. The customer service rep noted that the devices are "discountable” without any specifics about how to help customers buy in CAD.

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7 packages to choose from

There are a few ways to get a full system from Abode. First, you can choose from their "kits”. There are three to choose from ranging from $139.99 to $279.99 (USD) or $187.31 to $374.63 (CAD). The options include:

  • Abode Security kit
    • Security hub
    • 1x Mini door/window sensor
    • 1x Key fob
    • Cost: $187.31 (CAD)
  • Smart Security Kit
    • 1x Smart security hub
    • 1x Mini door/window sensor
    • 1x Motion sensor
    • 1x Key fob
    • 1x Window sticker
    • Cost: $214.07 (CAD)
  • Iota All-In-One Security Kit
    • 1x Iota hub (camera and motion sensor)
    • 1x Mini door/window sensor
    • 1x Key fob
    • Cost: $374.63 (CAD)

Special Bundles

If you're looking for something a bit more built out, you can try the Special Bundles, which offer a lot more equipment for a full-home security system. You can choose from an 8, 9, 12, or 14-piece bundle that includes a variety of extra motion sensors, door sensors, and 1 free month of pro-level monitoring included in purchase. The bundles range from $299.99 to $399.99 (USD) or $401.39 to $535.19 (CAD).

Buy add-ons of any kind

On top of the bundles, you can expect to find some extras sold separately. If you want to add an extra camera, wireless doorbell, up to 6 different types of window protection, motion sensor, or other security accessories, you can find them all on the shop tab. You can add these to your bundle or kit order, or buy them separately after the fact.

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Standard "Self-monitoring” Plan

There are two plans to choose from at Abode for monitoring and both are designed on a monthly payment system. Starting with the Standard Plan, this is listed as the "self-monitoring” plan. So, you won't have pro monitoring included in the price. Here are the benefits you can expect:

  • Unlimited cameras
  • Live and recorded video
  • Notifications
  • Video storage
  • Timeline
  • Home automation
  • In-app panic alarms
  • Premium support
  • Smart detect
  • Cost: $6.99 (USD) or $9.35 (CAD)/month

Pro "Professional Monitoring” Plan

With the Pro Plan, also known as the "professional monitoring plan”, you get all of the benefits of the Standard Plan along with:

  • 24/7 professional monitoring
  • Cellular backup
  • Free ground shipping within the lower 48 states
  • Access to exclusive deals and discounts
  • Homeowners insurance discounts
  • Cost: $22.99 (USD) or $30.76 (CAD)/month.

Equipment is extra

Both the Standard and the Pro plans don't include any of the equipment. These are just plans for your security system to function. If you want to get the gear, you'll have to go to the "shop” tab instead. On the bright side, no matter what option you choose you don't have to commit to a contract.

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No help with shipping costs

One place you won't run into a great deal with Abode is shipping. They do charge for shipping, and if you're having your security system shipped to Canada, you'll have to cover the customs and extra fees yourself. There's no extra help from the company here, which is a little disappointing since Abode is specifically known (according to its site) for shipping to Canadian households.

Low scores for Abode

Unfortunately, Abode doesn't do so well with its reputation either. According to Abode's page on the Better Business Bureau (BBB), the company holds a concerning "D+” rating overall. There have been 44 complaints on the BBB for Abode within the last three years and the company has a 1.3-star rating too. On trusted third-party review sites, Abode has a 3.2-star average, which is more middle-of-the-road, but still not very impressive. According to customers, Abode feels "basic” for too high of a price and there are a range of complaints about items like the key fobs not working regularly to disarm the security system. While the company does have a 30-day return policy, all shipping expenses are paid for by you, which could get seriously pricey with international shipping.

Nothing outstanding about Abode

With some serious concerns from the BBB as well as a range of complaints regarding product quality, Abode doesn't stand out from the pack. Despite being fully functional in Canada (minus Quebec), there isn't a lot of support in place to make the purchasing process easier for customers outside the US. With expensive shipping and customs fees, as well as a mid-tier quality level, Abode doesn't really impress.

Who Offers the Best Home Security Systems in Canada?

Did you know there are over 150,000 burglaries in Canada every year? It's no wonder that Canadian home security systems have surged in popularity in recent years. Potential intruders tend to skip homes with security systems when seeking an easy target. And, burglaries and break-ins aren't the only things you might want to protect your home from.

With modern systems, you can integrate smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, flooding sensors, and front door cameras to protect your family and belongings from natural disasters or in-home accidents. Plus, with modern connectivity, emergency services can be immediately dispatched when an alert occurs.

The Best Canadian Home Security Systems Compare Canadian Home Security Systems Compare Canadian Home Security Reviews What are the best Canadian Home Security Systems Best Canadian Home Security Reviews

Canadian Home Security FAQ

There are more than 2 million break-ins every year in the United States alone. Home security systems are the most logical way to give yourself the peace of mind that comes from knowing that you, your loved ones and your property are being watched over.
The most important feature is 24/7 monitoring, which most services offer as part of your monthly fees. At a minimum, you'll want to have sensors for all of the exterior doors in your residence.
There are many add-ons that can offer additional security and protection. Your home security system could have smoke and CO2 detectors, flooding sensors, motion detectors, night vision cameras, and much more.
You'll find plans both with and without required service contracts. The tradeoff is usually in the price of the equipment vs. the monthly service fees. (See the next question for more on that.)
That depends. You should expect two costs: equipment and monthly service charges. Some providers of home security systems give you the equipment "for free", as long as you sign a contract (usually 2-5 years). Others have you pay for the equipment upfront as a one-time charge, but their monthly fees tend to be lower. And, with most services, you'll pay more for monthly monitoring if your system has all of the bells and whistles.
One of the most customer-friendly aspects of today's home security systems is DIY installation. While there are still a handful of companies that require you to sit down with a sales rep and then wait for a professional to come and set up your system, the vast majority are designed to be easy and fast for you to install yourself. You'll have ample support via phone or online chat if you need extra guidance during the process.
Yes, most of the time. You'll typically have a 30-day window to use your home security system and decide if it provides the protection and service you need. Terms vary, however: you may get a full refund for all fees paid, or you may only be allowed to break your contract without getting any money back. Be sure to understand the details of any plan you select, before you sign up.
Usually, yes. Because of the do-it-yourself nature of most of today's systems, you can uninstall and move your equipment just as easily as you set it up the first time. You'll just need to update the company with your current address, so that emergency responders have the right location in the event of an alarm.
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Continued from above...

The good news is that whether you're moving in somewhere new, or you're looking for a little extra security at your existing family home, there are lots of choices for Canadian Home Security Systems on the market today. From systems that are straightforward do-it-yourself packages with just a few sensors, to cutting-edge professionally-installed security systems, there's a package out there for homes and budgets of every size.

Whether you want to monitor your own home or have a pro watch over your family, modern security systems can help keep you and your loved ones safe. And just having a security system or clearly indicating that you have 24/7 monitoring on your home can prevent criminal activity before it even starts. As an additional perk, some homeowners even enjoy reduced insurance costs with a security system in place.

There are a lot of companies out there vying for attention in the Canadian home security market. How can you determine the best fit for your needs? Consider these factors to help you make the best decision for your home:

  • Canada-based service. You'll want to be sure that the security system provider operates in Canada, with call centers and representatives located in the country. Many companies are based in the US, which can cause problems with pricing and service in certain provinces.
  • Equipment and installation. Check out the range of sensors, detectors, cameras, and other equipment offered by the company. How much of it is included in the monthly fees? Do you have to pay extra for the equipment you need? It's also important to check if the system allows for self-installation or requires professional installation.
  • Monitoring service. How much does the company charge for a 24/7 monitoring service? Some include this cost in the price of the security system while others charge separately for that protection.
  • Contracts. Check if the service requires a long-term contract. With some contracts extending up to 5 years with penalties for early termination, you may not want to get sucked into a contract option. Keep an eye out for companies that offer month-to-month plans with no long-term commitment.
  • Reputation. Consider the Better Business Bureau rating and customer reviews for different Canadian Home Security Systems. Other customers can give you a good idea of what kind of service you can expect.

With all those details squared away, all you need is your new Canadian Home Security System to help you feel at ease in your home.. To that end, Top Consumer Reviews has reviewed and ranked the best home security systems available in Canada today. We hope this helps you select a home security system that gives you the 24/7 protection you need for your home and family!

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