Home security systems can be found across the country, installed in single-family homes, multi-family residences, and even small businesses. Some consumers choose a system that comes with a monitoring contract. Others go with no-contract home security. But is the no-contract option worth the investment?
A no-contract home security system is one that you install and then pay for on a month-to-month basis. There is no contract requiring that you pay for remote monitoring services for a year or two. Vivint Home Security, the nation’s number two home security provider, just released a no-contract option known as HomeProtect.
Vivint professionally installs the equipment for you. Then they provide month-to-month monitoring for as long as you want it. You can cancel at any time.
Flexibility With No Long-Term Commitment
It should be obvious that no-contract home security offers flexibility without the long-term commitment of a multi-year agreement. An investment in a no-contract system still provides the same convenience, control, and security one might get from a traditional contracted package.
It is an ideal situation for a renter who has permission from the property owner to install a security system. The customer can enjoy all the benefits of modern home security without being locked in. When his lease expires and it is time to move on, he can cancel and be done with it.
What Comes With a No-Contract System
In terms of hardware, no-contract home security is no different. A typical system offers the same kind of equipment you would get with a contracted package. Home security providers like Vivint install systems that include:
- Control panels and entry keypads
- Door and window sensors
- Interior and exterior video cameras
- Motion sensors for lighting
- Video doorbells
- Mobile app access with real-time alerts
- 24/7 professional monitoring
It is worth noting that security providers tend to offer multiple packages. An entry-level package is most affordable but comes with the fewest security devices. High-end packages come with all the bells and whistles but a higher price tag too.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
To some homeowners, installation is the big question. DIY installation might be the preferred method among consumers trying to save a little money. But it is also possible to get free installation with a no-contract package from a well-known provider like Vivint.
Professional installation guarantees that everything works as intended. Not only that, but a normal installation also includes time spent teaching the homeowner how the system works. The homeowner gets all the benefits of a modern electronic home security system without having to do the work himself. That is big, especially for tech-challenged homeowners.
DIY vs. Professional Monitoring
Another big question for homeowners is monitoring. With a complete DIY system, the homeowner monitors his property on his own. His cell phone becomes the primary monitoring device. It’s a viable option for anyone who does not mind keeping phone notifications on and immediately responding when an alert comes in. And with DIY monitoring, there is never a contract.
On the other hand, professional monitoring is completely hassle-free. A homeowner can go about his day with the knowledge that professionally trained security personnel are keeping an eye on his system. Under a no-contract arrangement, the homeowner would pay for monitoring on a monthly basis.
The Pros and Cons of No Contract Home Security
Determining whether no-contract home security is worth the investment requires honestly looking at all the pros and cons. On the positive side, a no-contract package offers the following:
- Lower Costs – On average, no-contract home security is the lower-cost option over the long term. You pay for equipment up front and monitoring month-to-month. You can always cancel monitoring if your budget will not support it.
- Greater Flexibility – No-contract home security offers a bit more flexibility. You can add devices or upgrade services at any time. And when it is time to cancel, just contact your provider and let them know. You are not locked in.
- More Control – Not being locked into a contract gives you more control over your security system and budget. You are not stuck with an expensive contract or early termination fees that could otherwise influence whether you keep your system.
- Customization – Most providers offering no-contract home security do not sacrifice customization. You still get to choose the equipment you want. You might even be able to install it yourself.
There are a lot of advantages in choosing a no-contract security package. But as with anything else, the no-contract model does have its downsides. These include:
- Upfront Costs – Although no-contract home security tends to be more affordable in the long run, your upfront costs might be higher. You could pay more for the equipment because there is no contract to offset the retail price.
- Lack of Features – Some no-contract providers limit premium features in order to keep prices friendly to most budgets. You might not be able to add all the equipment or include exclusive services with a no-contract program.
- Monitoring Limits – A no-contract package with DIY monitoring will be subject to obvious limits. For example, you will not get automatic emergency dispatch. Self-monitoring puts all the responsibility on you.
It is easy to make the case for or against no-contract home security. It really boils down to your needs, preferences, and budget. For a lot of homeowners, no-contract really is the way to go. They want the affordability, flexibility, and control that comes with not having to be locked into a multi-year agreement.
Do Your Research Before You Buy
Regardless of the home security model you choose, investing in security equipment and monitoring requires careful consideration. Do plenty of research before you buy anything.
The right provider and no-contract package could prove invaluable in keeping you and your family safe. On the other hand, it is always possible to invest in a system you are unhappy with. So take your time and look at multiple home security providers. Also be sure you know exactly what you are getting with a no-contract package.