Professional or self-monitoring security systems?

Decide on the appropriate alarm system monitoring for your home

Ensuring the safety of your home is essential, and is something that a security system can facilitate. A home alarm system provides peace of mind - though it’s often pondered upon whether it be best to self-monitor your system via a mechanism such as MyAlarm or to hire licenced professionals to take care of it all for you.

Generally speaking, your choice is dependent on a range of factors, from the level of security your premises require to the layout of your property.

Everything is taken care of by the team at Alltronic; we understand that the needs vary between households, and tailor-make our services to optimise the operation of your security system.

Self-monitoring your alarm system

Taking care of your own alarm system allows you to be in complete control. With a self-monitored system, you can see what’s happening via a mobile device.

Advantages of self-monitoring

There are some great advantages to undertaking the control of your home security system. Usually, homes that opt for self-monitoring do so as they don’t need to overlook their home around the clock, or they’ll happily take up regular checks on their security system.

Cost-wise, a self-monitoring system doesn’t hold you to a contract, meaning you’re not subjected to regular expenses.

Not only is self-monitoring cost-efficient but its ease of use also increases its appeal.

With a self-monitoring system such as MyAlarm,

• Alarms can be armed or disarmed remotely
• You can monitor multiple alarms with a single application on your device
• You will receive real-time warnings of events and activations
• Push notifications will keep you up to date

Disadvantages of self-monitoring

Though there certainly are a multitude of benefits associated with self-monitoring systems, the lower cost can often lead to some gaps in the efficiency of household security.

Some disadvantages of self-monitoring include:

• Wi-fi and data reliance. Our device’s connection to the internet is never set in stone; we can go offline in a blink of an eye. If this happens, your system is at risk considering possible interruptions which can occur.
• Device proximity. Though a key feature of modern-day society is interconnectedness through portable devices, no one is literally always connected. If you’ve no access, there isn’t a way for you to be notified of a breach.
• Responsibility to install and monitor your system. Both these facets of security can prove challenging for the non-experienced. A lack of knowledge concerning the processes can prove risky.

Professional home alarm monitoring systems

When your home is connected to a monitored alarm, you can rest easy knowing that any intrusion will be reported 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Specially trained monitoring centre staff receive an instant notification when a customer's alarm is activated, providing a solution for each break-in situation.

Advantages of professional monitoring

Only professional alarm systems offer comprehensive, 24-hour security to your home.

There are plenty of great advantages when it comes to the professional monitoring of security systems. They include:

• Peace of mind. Professional monitoring means you’ve nothing to do but carry on with your life, while your home’s security is taken care of.
• When properly installed, a professionally-monitored system is set up to cover your premises comprehensively.
• Licenced security officers can quickly notify appropriate emergency response teams, providing a solution for every break-in.
• Customisable. Professional monitoring systems can be tailor-made to your specifications, ensuring all bases are covered, regardless of the layout of your home.
• Often, the instantly-triggered alarms can scare off intruders, preventing the chance of damage/theft on your premises.

Disadvantages of professional monitoring

Though a very comprehensive, advisable option, professional monitoring can come at quite a cost.

Also, in the event of a false alarm on your premises in which you fail to confirm, a false dispatch of police and/or security systems can occur, presenting complications to you (there’s often an obligation to report false alarms)

Alltronic, your experts in home alarm systems

Our team has over 25 years of experience securing homes like yours across Brisbane. We're members of the Australian Security Industry Association (ASIAL) which mean you can rest assured our team will provide high-quality workmanship, ethical service, and premium products in the custom design, installation, and repairs of your home alarm system.

Unsure where to start with your home security? Alltronic can provide you with highly effective options in security system design, installation, servicing, repairs, and monitoring of your premises. Get in touch with us on 07 3353 3248, or fill in a contact form.

Resources used

https://www.safewise.com/blog/self-monitored-security-systems-pros-cons/
https://www.economical.com/en/blog/economical-blog/march-2017/pros-and-cons-of-monitored-home-security-systems
https://www.swann.com/blog/diy-home-security-vs-monitored-security-systems/
https://wiredsmart.io/home-security/monitored-vs-unmonitored-systems/