Why are Home Security Systems Important?

Purchasing a contract for a home security system and monitoring can be a big step. Maybe you’re currently on the fence, wondering if it’s worth the cost of installation and a recurring monitoring fee. While it may be obvious that a home security system helps protect your valuables, there are many other benefits of a home security system that might surprise you.

Understand the facts

Did you know that a burglary happens in the United States approximately every 13 seconds? That’s no joke, and it’s one of the main reasons why the home security industry is growing so rapidly right now. For the most part, bolting your doors and locking your windows will help you keep your home safe, but sometimes it isn’t enough. No one is without risk when it comes to a break-in.

Here are some things you may not know, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program:

• In 2019, there were an estimated 1,117,696 burglaries.

• Burglaries accounted for 16.1 percent of the estimated number of property crimes.

• Burglaries of residential properties accounted for 62.8 percent of all burglary offenses.

• By subcategory, 55.7 percent of burglaries involved forcible entry, 37.8 percent were unlawful entries, and 6.5 percent were attempted forcible entry.

• The average dollar loss per burglary offense was $2,661.

You might find the numbers surprising. Here’s what a home security system can do for you.

Burglars will pass you by

According to the Electronic Security Association, nine out of ten burglars will pass up a home if they know it is armed with a security system. A study by Rutgers University in 2009 also showed that home security systems help protect other residences in your neighborhood. If multiple homes in a community have home security systems, thieves are less likely to target that neighborhood.

Some ways burglars can tell if you have a home security system include video surveillance cameras and security company signs outside your home. Many home security companies will give you a small sign you can place in your yard to indicate your home is monitored. Cameras placed by doors and windows will also deter intruders.

Burglars want an easy target. The quicker they can get in and grab valuables, the more likely they will strike your property. They’ll rarely attack a home that’s fortified with multiple security measures. In the rare case that an intruder is brave enough to force entry into your home, alarms will sound. Simultaneously, your home monitoring service will automatically notify police of the break-in.

Reduced homeowner’s insurance cost

A home security system also can help you save approximately 20% on your homeowner’s insurance because home security systems decrease the chances you will file a claim with your insurance company. Homeowner’s insurance typically costs about $35 per month for every $100,000 of your home’s value, so if your home is worth $300,000, you might be saving over $250 each year. In some cases, that savings will cover the cost of a home security system.

Your homeowner’s insurance cost will vary depending on your coverage, payment options, and location. However, it’s safe to assume that your homeowner’s insurance will decrease after installing a home security system.

The best course of action is to find a home security system that you’re interested in and contact your insurance agent to see how its purchase will impact your premiums.

Regulation of your home environment

Some home security systems come equipped with smart thermostats that will help you maintain steady energy use. When you have your home’s temperature regulated, you can save up to 33% on your heating and cooling costs.

Smart thermostats will also allow you to adjust your home’s temperature remotely. Most systems will have an app you can download to your smartphone so you can control your home’s temperature even when you’re not there. Did you forget to turn off your air conditioning before leaving on vacation? No problem. You can easily do so from your smartphone.

Aside from temperature controls, a home security system is also great for video surveillance. Most home security companies will offer wireless video surveillance that you can access from your phone.

For example, Brinks Home™ currently offers an HD wireless video camera that produces fast and high quality images, all accessible remotely from your smartphone. The system also includes night vision and audio. This is good for monitoring your home for burglaries and simple things like seeing if the kids are home.

Lastly, home security systems are becoming more and more compatible with both Google Home and Amazon Echo devices. With these devices, you can lock your doors, turn on lights, or arm your system with a vocal command.

Small scale deterrents

There are some things you can do now to help fortify your home against burglars, and they might be easier than you think:

Install large window and door locks in plain sight.

Install deadbolts on all your exterior doors.

Call your local police station and ask them to do a home security check for you. They can point out the weak spots in your home’s defenses so you can improve them. More often than not, this service is free.

Get motion-activated lights that turn on and off based on infrared signals. You can usually install these anywhere outside your home.

Install thick doors. Approximately 70% of burglars enter your home through a door, so installing a door that’s harder to break through will increase the security of your home. Don’t forget the deadbolt lock to match.

Note that some of these measures will cost as much if not more than a home security system. For example, a steel entry door can cost over $300, covering the cost of installation and several months of monitoring. Both options are suitable measures to deter burglars, but home security systems offer more options.

Take the next step

There are many things you can do to protect your home without subscribing to a monthly fee. Still, with home security systems as readily available and affordable as they are, you can likely find a security system that fits your budget.

Ready to get started? Contact Brinks Home today for a free quote.