The Cost of Professional Security Monitoring vs. Self-Monitoring
We recently talked about the various codes required for your security and fire protection systems. We also talked about why monitoring is vital as part of a business’s fire safety system—mainly because the code may require it.
This blog will address the pros and cons of self-monitoring your business’ entire alarm system versus the cost of professional security monitoring.
First, what is the difference between the two?
Professional vs. Self
A professionally monitored system—as the name implies—is actively and continuously observed by professionally trained personnel at a central monitoring station. These workers are trained, certified, and on standby 24/7 to receive and react to alarm signals. If a glass-break sensor is triggered, for example, the central monitoring station receives an immediate notification. Depending on protocols established with the business owner, the central monitoring station may first contact the owner or may immediately notify the local authorities.
In a self-monitored system, the business owner is responsible for the security system. This is generally hosted on a smartphone app that will send the business owner a text or email if an alarm is triggered. It is then up to the business owner to investigate the cause of the signal or to notify emergency responders, if necessary.
Pros of Professional Security Monitoring
Convenience is one of the biggest pros for a professionally monitored system. Outsourcing monitoring offers freedom and a reliable process for your business. You know that if you’ve gone out to dinner or away on vacation, continuous security monitoring is keeping an eye on your investment. You can relax knowing it’s in good hands because a monitored system will automatically notify the host company’s security team and often makes a direct connection to emergency services.
Cons of Professional Security Monitoring
The added expense is the main downside for a professionally monitored system. Most require a contract for a minimum period with monthly charges for the service.
Pros of Self-Monitoring Security
The primary upside of a self-monitored system is the cost. After the initial purchase of the security equipment, there are no more expenses. There are no contracts or monthly monitoring fees once the system is in place.
Cons of Self-Monitoring Security
Self-monitored systems usually require Wi-Fi and power connections. If the power goes out, your security system can be compromised. If you have a bad Wi-Fi signal or have turned off your phone, there’s no way to check on your business remotely.
The hidden up-front costs of self-monitoring can also be considered a disadvantage of self-monitored security. It can take you a lot of time to install the equipment and to respond to alarm signals at any time of the day.
Get Your Free Consultation
FSS and its certified technicians work with customers to create, install, and monitor individualized security systems made for every need and budget. We keep you, your business, and customers safe and give you peace of mind.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Why Fire Sprinkler, Extinguisher, and Backflow Inspections Matter
At FSS Technologies, we believe that safety isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Our commercial fire protection services are designed to give your business peace of mind, knowing that your properties, people, and assets are secure and compliant with fire and life safety codes. We specialize in fire sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, and backflow preventer inspections…
Where Should Security Cameras Be Installed in a Business?
Security camera placement in a business needs to be strategically decided based on several important factors. Areas that store valuables, have high foot traffic, and enable access to your building should be some of the essential locations. Learn more about what kinds of security cameras you can use and where they should be installed in…
The Risky Business of Ring’s Vulnerable Security
If you are like the rest of Americans, you have noticed that the Ring Security company has been in the news lately— and not for anything useful. Between security hacks and lawsuits, the company has landed itself in hot water. Surveillance Camera Hacks Homeowners have security cameras installed in their homes to give them peace…
Livly: A Modern Residential Community Experience
The Livly property and tenant management system is one of the most cutting-edge and all-inclusive apartment app experiences available today. The system offers low-cost technology and fully integrated experiences that pair well with a variety of existing property management systems. As a proud partner with Livly, FSS Technologies offers this trusted technology solution for both…
Smoke Detectors for the Hearing Impaired
What are Visual Fire Alarms? If a fire breaks out, occupants of a building may have as little as two minutes to get out before the fire becomes life-threatening. Fire alarms provide an early warning notification and alert people to evacuate, but what if you are deaf or hearing impaired? How do you know there…
What Are The Different Types of CCTV Cameras?
Your company’s security camera is part of a closed-circuit television system (CCTV). CCTV uses one or more cameras, through either wireless or wired transmission, to send the broadcast from the camera directly to a monitor, set of monitors, or a recording device—providing you peace of mind in the case of crime, fire, theft, or accidents…
How Poor Security Can Cost Your Business
Poor security practices have hidden costs With the many expenses that business owners must juggle for day-to-day operations, security often falls by the wayside. Even though it seems like an easy way to save money, the cost of handling a break-in can surpass the money you’d spend on installing and maintaining a security system. Here…
What Do Villages Require to Add a Security System?
What Is a Village? A village in the United States is defined as a small municipality with limited corporate powers. A village government usually consists of a village board made up of trustees and a village president. Village Building Codes Have Minimum Requirements Every village adopts its own building codes to establish minimum requirements for…
3 Ways to Prevent Shoplifting
Preventing shoplifting is a big deal if you’re a retailer. According to the 2018 National Retail Security Survey, shoplifting continues to be the leading cause of inventory loss for retailers. Loss of stock is a big deal in this country to the tune of nearly $47 billion. The survey also identifies the top ways retailers try…
Fire Prevention, Protection, and Suppression Systems
Fire safety is a crucial matter that every business should prioritize. Whether it’s caused by arson or an accident, a fire can cause catastrophic damage to a company’s property, inventory, and equipment if the proper protection measures aren’t in place or there are operational issues. In more unfortunate cases, insufficient fire safety standards can put…