Monday, June 5th
2023 Home Security System Reviews
ADT
- Professionally-installed home security system
- Required contracts of 24 to 36 months
- Monthly monitoring costs ranging from $36.99 to $62.99
- Equipment is included in the monthly price
- Installation fees of $99 or $199+
- 6-month money-back guarantee
- "A+" rating and accreditation from the BBB
- In business for over 140 years
ADT is one of the most recognizable names in the home security systems industry, and with over 140 years of experience providing security in various forms, it's not hard to understand why.
Multiple monitoring centers = better protection
ADT's 24/7 monitoring centers, located in six different locations across the US, are a significant advantage of the company's size. This ensures uninterrupted coverage even in the event of a natural disaster or other incidents. Smaller companies, who rely on a single location for their monitoring services, may not offer this level of reliability.
Some of the most expensive home security systems
But, you should expect to pay handsomely for any home security system you choose through ADT: their monthly prices (which include your equipment and monitoring fees) are some of the most expensive in the industry, and you'll have to call to finalize a package and quote for your specific living arrangements. Here's a rough idea of what you can expect, so you can be a little more prepared for that phone call:
- Complete Monitoring: starting at $36.99/month plus a $99 installation charge, this plan is ADT's most basic. It includes a digital keypad with high-decibel alarm, entryway contacts, keychain remote, pet-sensitive motion detector, backup battery, and yard sign/window decals.
- Premium Monitoring: starting at $44.99/month plus installation fees of $99, this package includes all of the equipment from Complete, but ADT doesn't really get into detail as to what you're getting for your extra $8/month. Confusing!
- Remote Monitoring with Command: this package starts at $52.99/month plus $99 installation and adds remote web and mobile access (such as arm/disarm) plus email/text alerts for your system. It's hard to imagine anyone who wouldn't expect that as a bare minimum for a home security system today, making this the most entry-level ADT plan we think most customers will consider.
- Video Monitoring with Command: at $58.99/month + $99 for installation, this package includes secure real-time video (though we thought it was interesting that in the equipment list, there were no cameras mentioned).
- Video and Home Automation: this is ADT's top tier of service, priced at $62.99/month and a higher installation fee of $199. It comes with lighting control, thermostat control, and garage door control, but those latter two are designated as coming with an added cost. ADT doesn't specify how much - at least, not before you call to set up your home security package.
You'll need an in-person visit
Once you reach out to ADT, they'll set up an appointment to have a trained security advisor/installer come to your home, so that your home security system is designed specifically for your home, family, and lifestyle. That visit will include taking measurements and getting a recommendation for the equipment that will best match your property and your preferred budget.
6-month money-back guarantee... sort of
ADT provides a 6-month money-back guarantee, which states that customers may receive a refund of installation costs and any paid monitoring fees if the company is unable to resolve service- or installation-related issues. However, there are certain restrictions that apply, such as the requirement to fully remove all equipment before processing the refund, and the condition that system-related problems must not have been caused by the customer.
Reputation leaves a lot to be desired
You would think that with millions of customers, ADT's popularity would translate into lots of positive feedback for their home security systems. While it's true that the company has an "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau, ADT received over 3,000 complaints there just in the year leading up to this evaluation. Jumping over to Trustpilot, we also saw that 89% of people who left feedback there gave ADT the lowest possible rating of one star.
Customer complaints
The biggest complaint is customer service: issues included systems being inactive for 10 years (while the customer was still being billed every month; no one on ADT's side ever noticed that the system wasn't sending data), lots of promises during the sales process that aren't backed up once the home security system is installed, no warranty coverage on equipment, and significant declines in service when smaller home security companies are acquired by ADT.
A big name in security with disappointing results
We still give ADT a "just average" three-star rating: it is a big name in home security, and for some people that might be pretty compelling compared with lesser-known or newer providers. But, unless ADT starts trending better with respect to customer feedback, it's going to be hard for their home security systems to ever move up in our rankings.
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Which Home Security System is the Best?
Home security systems have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people seek to protect their homes and families from potential threats. With a wide variety of options available on the market, choosing the right system for your needs can be overwhelming. We can help you take the stress out of the decision-making process and ultimately select a home security setup that's perfect wherever you live.
Let's get started. As you already know, a home security system is a network of electronic devices designed to secure your home against theft, vandalism, and other possible dangers. A typical system may include sensors, cameras, alarms, and monitoring services.
Home Security System FAQ
Continued from above...
Sensors are the backbone of a home security system. They detect any unusual activity in and around your home and alert the system. The most common types of sensors are door and window sensors, motion sensors, and glass-break sensors. Door and window sensors are placed on the frames of doors and windows and detect any movement when the doors or windows are opened or closed. Motion sensors detect movement within a room, while glass-break sensors detect the sound of breaking glass. Pretty self-explanatory.
Cameras are an essential component of many home security systems. They provide visual evidence of any unusual activity around your home and can help identify intruders. Most cameras are connected to the internet, allowing you to view the footage remotely from your phone or computer.
Alarms are designed to alert you and your neighbors to any potential threats. When a sensor is triggered, the alarm will sound, and a notification will be sent to your phone or monitoring service. These companies monitor your home security system 24/7, and if a sensor is triggered, they will usually contact you to verify whether there is a genuine threat. If they are unable to reach you, they will contact the authorities on your behalf.
Now that you have a solid understanding of the basics of any home security system, what other factors might have an impact on your decision? Here are some criteria to consider:
- Professional install vs. DIY. Professionally-installed systems are designed for those who want a more comprehensive setup, often including cameras, sensors, alarms, and monitoring services. The professional install makes these systems more expensive than DIY systems but provide a higher level of security. DIY systems are designed for those who want affordability and are willing to install and maintain their home security system.
- Cost. Will you pay upfront for the service and/or equipment? What monthly fees are involved? Contracts can often range from 3-5 years, but not every home security system requires one.
- Portability of service. Can you take your home security system with you if you move, either by taking the equipment itself or transferring your contract and having a new install?
- Cancellation. What happens if you decide you don't need a home security system anymore? Many providers have hefty cancellation fees, especially if you signed a lengthy contract in exchange for no upfront equipment costs.
- Trial period. The best home security providers give you a grace period to see how the system works. After all, there's a pretty steep learning curve involved, and you want to make sure your system gives you the coverage and peace of mind you're paying for.
- Satisfaction guarantee/refund policy. Can you get your money back if you don't like how your security system works once it's installed?
- Customer feedback. What do other homeowners have to say about the home security system? Is the customer service team responsive? How often does the system register false alarms?
Top Consumer Reviews brings you the ultimate guide to the best home security systems on the market today. Our comprehensive review and ranking system is designed to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision and protect your loved ones both now and in the future.
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