It is no secret that some home security systems can be pretty expensive. On the lower end, you’re looking at anywhere from $200 to $600 for the equipment and the installation.
Higher-end security systems may cost $600 or more on their own, without installation costs. You then also need to consider monthly subscription fees.
Due to these high costs, some people wonder whether or not home security systems are worth it. So, are home security systems worth it?
The simple reality is that, yes, home security systems are worth it. This article discusses the different reasons why home security systems are beneficial for your security.
The Benefits of Having a Home Security System
Let’s look at the main benefits of having a home security system. You can then decide on your own whether or not it’s worth the cost.
Crime Deterrence
One of the primary purposes of any home security system is crime deterrence. While some might think that security systems are designed to catch a crime in action, they’re more so designed to prevent crime from occurring in the first place.
An interesting statistic is that up to 60% of convicted burglars say they will avoid a home if they see a security system. So simply put, most crooks won’t mess with your home if they know you have a security system.
Another interesting statistic is that it helps deter crime in whole neighborhoods, not just single homes.
Up to 90% of convicted burglars say that they will avoid neighborhoods where many houses have security systems because the risk of getting caught is too high.
Even if a burglar still tries to get into a home, a good home security system will still usually scare them off because they often come with bright lights and noisy alarms that will alert the neighborhood to the presence of a criminal.
Protecting Your Valuables
On that same note, a home security system is also a great way to protect your valuables. But, first, there’s the aspect of deterrence.
However, even if a crime or a burglary does occur, you will have evidence. Therefore, there’s always a chance that you will catch the criminals who broke into your home.
That said, some burglars also note that home security systems are indications that the home has valuables inside of it. However, even with this indication, a high-quality system with many components will still usually act as a deterrent.
Fire, Flood, & Medical Alerts
Home security systems aren’t designed just for criminals. For example, a good system may also incorporate a smoke detector or fire alarm.
This way, if you aren’t home and a fire breaks out, your home security system will automatically call the fire department. More than once have these security systems stopped homes from burning down.
This is also the case in the event of a flood. Although most home security systems don’t come with flood monitors, a few do.
A high-end home security system may also have a medical alert function. These sometimes come with bracelets that a user can carry. Then, when there’s a medical emergency, a button can be pressed, which automatically alerts first responders.
Some home security systems can detect carbon monoxide and other poisonous gases.
This is especially beneficial if you are not at home. That said, an alarm system responds to emergencies faster than humans. So, even if you are home during an emergency, your security system will be able to alert authorities.
Greater Home Value and Decreased Insurance Costs
Many may not think about the monetary value associated with home security systems. For one, when it comes to homeowner’s insurance, rates are often lower for those with monitored security systems.
Security systems help prevent crime from occurring. Therefore, insurance companies will be willing to provide homeowner’s insurance for lower rates.
At the same time, the resale value of a home with a security system is generally higher than a home that does not have one.
Potential buyers see security systems, especially monitored security systems, as excellent benefits. These can add several thousand dollars in value to any home. Therefore, a home security system is an investment that can pay off when you go to sell your home.
Remote Monitoring
Most modern security systems have remote monitoring capabilities, so you can view the cameras and get alerts on your smartphone no matter where you are. This way, you can immediately see if someone is breaking into your home, even if you are across town.
With a good doorbell camera, you can also see if someone is trying to get in the front door, if a package has been delivered, or if neighbors have tried to reach you.
If you have indoor cameras, a good security system can also serve as a nanny cam to keep an eye on your kids and babysitters.
The bottom line is that a good home security system allows you to keep a close eye on your home no matter where you are. In addition, it’s also good to keep an eye on your pets when you aren’t home.
Conclusion
Based on the benefits we discussed, a home security system is absolutely a worthwhile investment. If you want to keep yourself, your family, and your belongings safe, a home security system is recommended.