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’ 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
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…
How Savance Workplace Can Work for You
Savance Workplace is one of the nation’s leaders in workforce management solutions, offering tools that help declutter your company’s processes and optimize your productivity. With a wide variety of fully customizable products branded for your business, Savance Workplace can help your organization take its efficiency to the next level. As a trusted partner of Savance…
Why Night Staff Should Have Fire Alarm Training
In the years that I traveled as a Sales Representative, I experienced many times when a fire alarm would go off throughout the night. As the hotel guests evacuated, I often found that the night staff didn’t know what to do. In almost every case, it was an accidental alarm, and in many cases, night…
ADT Home Security Settlement
ADT home security is facing a class-action lawsuit. The plaintiffs allege that ADT failed to disclose wireless sensors’ vulnerability to evasion and jamming. Why should you care? Although this settlement is for ADT, this is a vulnerability all wireless security systems face. Let’s talk about wireless technology for a second. All home Wi-Fi…
Who Owns ADT Alarm Systems After Install?
You’ve paid to have an alarm system installed in your home. Do you own the equipment? Most likely, but not yet if you contracted with a big-box home security company like ADT. Payment Plans for Equipment Most people sign up on special offers in which they will pay an installation fee for the equipment, but…
Why Are Fire Hydrants Different Colors?
The eye-catching colors of a fire hydrant are hard to miss, whether you’re walking through a city or driving around a neighborhood. What many don’t realize, however, is that these colors are integral in helping emergency responders identify and assess their available resources when preparing to fight a fire. Fire hydrant colors are distinct to…
Where Should Smoke Detectors Be Placed?
Smoke Detector Placement Fire can spread extremely fast. In just minutes, a building can be fully engulfed in flames. Smoke detectors are critical to give people inside homes and commercial buildings early warnings so they have time to get out. Proper smoke detector placement is also key when it comes to keeping your home or business safe. Residential Smoke Detector Placements At a minimum, The National Fire Protection…
What Does a Commercial Fire System Include?
Fire safety is critical for all businesses, but the components within commercial fire systems vary significantly between industries and functions. Fires can stem from common causes that affect any commercial property and sources unique to specific fields, so fire systems must address every threat using detection, prevention, protection, and suppression. With many options available for…
Can a Security System Save My Business Money?
If you’re a business owner, you know the importance of weighing the pros and cons of major purchases before making them. A commercial security system is one of the higher-ticket items that can cause the most significant hesitation. While they can take large investments to purchase, install, and maintain, security systems can offer long-term savings…
Where Should Window and Motion Sensors be Placed?
Motion and window sensors are basic parts of a security system in both residential and business applications. The expert security team at FSS Technologies has helped thousands of business and property owners stay safe with these tools. Sensors A motion sensor allows a system to detect movement, using waves or light to determine if someone or…