My neighborhood feels totally safe. Why would I need a home security system?

Even though it’s a great thing to feel secure where you live, when what is at stake is your property and your family, you need to be objective in your analysis.  And that means looking at the statistics. Houston is 126th on the list of the safest cities in Texas, with property crime occurring 61% more frequently when compared with the state average, and almost 75% more frequently I comparison to the national average. As such, a home security system is absolutely necessary to ensure your own safety.

Do I need to choose between interior and exterior cameras?

This is a common question, and the best answer is that both interior and exterior cameras should be used to ensure that your home security system is as comprehensive as it can be. Many plans include both types of cameras, and even if they don’t, you could consider trying to find some sort of package that allows for both. At the end of the day, no, you don’t need to choose. And the best packages will include both.

Are infrared cameras really necessary?

Infrared cameras are right at the cutting edge of the current security camera market, and with good reason. By observing a light spectrum that is not visible to the human eye (nor to most cameras), they can operate incredibly well in low- or no-light conditions, given that they record how much heat a given body is emitting. They’re not absolutely crucial, but they’re a very nice added feature to include since they can help safeguard against the worst-case scenario of a home invasion.

Are home security systems customizable?

Home security systems come in two main options. The first is an off-the-rack system of some sort, which will include different amounts of features and different levels of functionality in accordance with how much the package costs. The second option is a completely customizable home security system, which a company will design to suit your specific needs. This is a great idea, if you can afford it, since you’re guaranteeing that the system will work for you and your family. Plus, you’ll also know exactly what you’re paying for.

Do I really need to go for professional installation?

The alternative to having your home security system professionally installed is installing it yourself in DIY fashion. You certainly don’t need to be too technical to make this process work for you—after all, it’s quite straightforward—but there’s a reason professional installation is more expensive. And a large part of that reason is the peace of mind you’ll have by knowing that your home security system was installed by experts who have years of experience.

Aren’t home security systems too expensive for most working people?

This may have been the case a few years ago, before the market was as competitive as it is now, but the landscape has changed significantly since then as more and more companies have been joining the fray. While starting costs can be as low as $15 or $20/month—which is well within most budgets—it’s worth keeping in mind that advanced features, like high-tech cameras or professional installation, will cost a few hundred dollars more.