Deciding whether or not to purchase a home security system can be vexing. You essentially have to decide to spend money on something that you hope you’ll never need. Sort of like insurance.
In making your decision, there are several things you should consider. Read on to learn what you need to know about home security systems in Minnesota…
Bonus Content: Download our free PDF “What You Absolutely Must Know Before Purchasing a Home Security System” for more great insights.
The Statistics
Undoubtedly, the most important statistics related to home security systems are those around residential burglary. What you might find surprising is that residential burglary is not limited to the wealthy.
According to the Department of Justice, your house is equally likely to be broken into whether it’s in the city, the suburbs, or the country. As it relates to income, you are more likely to be burglarized if your income is under $50,000, than if it is over.
These statistics show that anyone could be the victim of a burglary, so a home security system makes a lot of sense.
The Benefits
Looking at the benefits, you may see that your security system can give you more than you would have expected with your investment. Four direct benefits are:
- Provide help and protection for fire and/or medical emergencies. Your home security system can be enabled to sound an alarm if there is smoke, fire, or a gas leak. Many systems can also be set to send out an alarm if you need medical attention.
- Lower your home insurance rate. Some insurance companies have discounts up to 20% off your home policy if you have an alarm or security system.
- Increase the value of your home. If you decide to sell, buyers will be more attracted to a house with a pre-installed security system.
- Help deter forcible entry and reduce your risk of being burglarized. In fact, a Rutgers study found that the as the number of home alarm systems in a neighborhood goes up, the number of burglaries goes down.
Questions to Ask
Once you’ve decided to get a system, you need to shop around. This CBS feature talks about the extra questions you should ask of your potential home security provider. Some of their suggestions include:
- Because systems come in various sizes and options, make sure you can get a package tailored to fit your budget.
- Ask for a clear written statement of the upfront payment costs, as well as the monthly charges and fees.
- Ask your provider if they’ll provide free installation, and if not, ask what other discount incentives they might have.
- Request a free consultation to help you determine what type of system to buy.
- Ask what the remote surveillance options are, like if you can use your smartphone or tablet app.
Other Considerations
Finally, verify that the installation will be done according to government regulations. The state of Minnesota follows the national standard for installation of electrical wiring and equipment for alarm and communication systems. There could also be specific permit requirements for the jurisdiction where you live.
Several cities within Minnesota require a residential alarm permit. This typically is easily obtained, and you must provide the following information:
- Owner’s address and phone number
- If the alarm is monitored by an alarm company, the name and address of the same
- Type of alarm system (perimeter, doors only, fire, etc.)
- Type of signal emitted
- Emergency call information
Conclusion
For most people in Minnesota, a home security system can make a lot of sense. Feeling safe in your home is at least one insurance you won’t mind paying for!
