Security Partner or Salesman

This entry begins like a bad joke and the punch line isn’t very funny, either.  A woman whose home had alarm sensors at every opening called a reputable construction company to inquire about upgrading the windows in the home.  She chose high quality materials.  She discussed the alarm system with the project manager and together they determined that the alarm sensor wires should be left exposed for reconnection after the windows were installed.  It was a great idea, but in the end, the style of window that was installed, and the way the screens fit in the opening precluded the installation of any standard type of hard-wired window sensor.

I am only drawing attention to the fact that if her alarm company had been involved from the beginning she may have saved a substantial amount of money by not having to upgrade her alarm system.  Of course a solution still exists, but it is expensive.

By comparison, a client of mine called with a similar inquiry, involving the replacement of her exterior doors.  I met with the contractor and the homeowner to plan to accommodate the alarm sensors.  Then I went back out on the day the doors were installed to ensure the alarm system wasn’t compromised.  Having the contractor drill the necessary holes also meant that the warranty on the door system stayed in force.

The lessons to be learned here are threefold.  First, make sure you deal with a reputable security company.  Second, stay in touch with your security company representative.  Finally, any time you make renovations to your home, or when your home situation changes significantly, get in touch with your security provider to make small adjustments to the security system that better suit the new situation.

Some situations that might cause your security needs to change are:

·         Retirement or change in occupation

·         Middle school children who come home to an empty house for an hour or two each day

·         More extensive travel for work or vacation

·         Hiring or changing household staff, such as a nanny or house keeper

·         Acquiring a new pet

·         Finding yourself with an “empty nest”

·         Changing insurance companies

·         Increased criminal activity in the area

·         Changing phone companies or services

·         Home improvement or renovation

·         Caring for an aging or disabled family member

The security of your home and family should feel like a partnership between you and your security professional.  This is the difference between a security professional and a run-of-the-mill alarm salesman.  Stay tuned to this channel for some tips on choosing your security partner.