Home and Business Security Providers

Choosing a security company for your home or business is an important decision and a valuable investment.  The list of providers below is not comprehensive.

Who are the major security providers in the U.S.?

1. ADT – An acronym for American District Telegraph, ADT was formed in 1874.  Offering security solutions for homes and businesses around the world, ADT recently acquired Broadview Security, which was formerly associated with Brink’s Home Security.
2. Brinks Security changed its name to Broadview Security  which was recently acquired by ADT
3. Broadview Security was recently purchased by ADT Security
4. Counterforce Security is now a UTC Fire & Security company with world headquarters in Farmington CT
5. GE Security is now part of UTC Fire & Security
6. Guardian – Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Guardian’s security systems are available for residential and commercial use.
7. Honeywell Security, North American offices are located in Melville, NY
8. Laser Shield is a relatively new company offering a do it yourself (DIY) system, which is great for apartments.
9. Monitronics – Providing private and businesses security services throughout the United States, Monitronics was established in 1994.
10. Protect America – Founded in 1992, Protect America is a provider of primarily residential security in the United States.
11. Protection One – Headquartered in Lawrence, Kansas, Protection One also provides security options for homes and businesses.

What factors should be considered when selecting a security company?

1. Price – When shopping for security companies, make sure you know all of the possible costs associated with each.  In addition to monthly subscription fees, you may be required to pay for the security system components and the labor associated with their installation. Even if you are able to afford expensive services and plans, make sure that you are getting the best value for your money; you may be able to find the same or a similar service for less with another company for a more affordable rate.  On the other hand, if a company’s price seems too good to be true, you may risk compromising the security of your property.  Look for hidden costs too; for example, if you opt to cancel the service early or change to a different provider, you may be assessed a fee so make sure you are aware of whether this will be the case in advance.  Some companies offer credit for future systems if your family should move, which can be a helpful long-term benefit. 
2. Availability of Services in Your Area – Not all companies offer the same services and some companies do not offer all security options in every state.  Before choosing a security company, it would be to your advantage to compile a list of what security options are crucial for your needs and which ones you may be willing to compromise on depending on cost and availability.
3. Customer Reviews and Experiences of Friends and Family – Although it is highly likely that you will inevitably find a few negative reviews for every provider, consider the general trend.  Make sure you check different reviews for different types of services (home vs. business, burglary vs. fire, etc.). Do clients seem happy with customer service and response during emergencies? Do they seem to think that the company provides a quality service or offers a good value? Are there more positive reviews than negative ones or are the negative experiences relatively consistent?
4. Backup Systems – Check what happens in the event of a power failure or the loss of landline phone communications. 
5. System Compatibility – Does the company sell security systems that will still work if you switch to another company?  If not, you may find yourself starting from scratch if you move or want to change to a different provider in the future.
6. Guarantees – A good company will stand by its product.  Does the company offer to compensate you in the event that their security system fails to stop a theft or fire?  Do they have a warranties for cost and labor of replacement parts in the event that something is defective?
7. Memberships – Is the company registered with the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association and with the Better Business Bureau?
8. Employment Process – What are the procedures for hiring new employees?  Because these individuals will have access to your home and sometimes even your security information, how thorough are the background checks?