Defining the Relationship with Your Home Security Provider

It’s never easy to admit the spark’s gone out of a relationship. After all, there was a reason you got together with your home security provider in the first place. But now things feel different. Whether you’re growing resentful of the pinch that comes with each monthly bill, or you no longer swoon at the voice that assures you everything is locked down for the night, the result is the same: that magic’s just not there anymore.

As with any split, there will be a lot to sort out. So before you break the news to your current company, consider these three options for switching up your home security services to better suit your needs.

Full Overhaul

If you cringe at the thought of spending one more moment with your current provider, you can completely uninstall your security system and start fresh. Pros: If you want better service and improved features or protection, then moving might be your best option. Home automation is one of the biggest trends in home security right now, so if your current company doesn’t offer the latest tech advances, the grass will definitely be greener somewhere else. You may also want to switch to a company with a better track record or stronger reputation. No matter what, make sure you’ve clearly identified talking points: what you aren’t getting from your current service and what you absolutely need from your new provider. Cons: Starting over will usually involve some kind of initial investment (which you already paid for once), and you’ll also need to make sure you’re not under any contract or penalty if you leave your current service. If money is your primary motivation, it could be worth it to talk to your current company and see if you two can give it one more try — depending, of course, on their willingness to shave a few bucks off the bill.

Change Monitoring

If what you’re missing in your security relationship is more personal attention, you might be able to switch up your monitoring service without swapping out all of your equipment. Pros: Alarm systems made by companies like Honeywell or GE aren’t usually tied to a specific security monitoring company. That makes it easy for you to play the field and shop around until you find the type of monitoring that meets your needs. And when you already own the equipment, you have a much better bargaining position when it comes to prices and contracts. Cons: Unfortunately, not all equipment can be used with monitoring services provided by companies outside of the one that did the installation. Some older systems still require a landline, too, so you’ll have to verify the requirements of your equipment as well. You may also be obligated to your current provider because of a contract, so make sure that you are free and clear to move on before investing too much time into research.

DIY

Sometimes you’re so fed up that it seems best to take matters into your own hands. With a little work on your part, you can break free from the confines of what your home security provider offers and create exactly the type of security system you want. Pros: Control and cost are at the top of the list when it comes to the benefits of a DIY home security system. You can put together the basics (including some combination of door and window sensors, keypads, cameras, and motion sensor lights) for a few hundred dollars — and that’s a one-time fee that doesn’t come with any additional monthly costs. This is also a great option for renters, because you’ll be able to take the system with you when you move. Cons: Having control over your home security system comes with a few downsides. You’ll be responsible for repairs and maintenance, and if you want to upgrade to the latest and greatest security features, it can be difficult and expensive. And it’s good to note that some DIY home security systems are less complex than professional systems, meaning they won’t be tied into a monitoring center or connected to the police. Depending on the level of security you need to feel safe, this can make DIY home security less appealing. Never go through a break up without proper guidance from your trusted support system. Do your research, know what you need, and you’ll be sure to find a home security provider who will be in it for the long run.