If you have a security system installed in your home, chances are you’ve heard of professional alarm monitoring. What exactly is it? Are there any advantages to using a professionally monitored security system? These are just some of the questions many homeowners ask when considering an alarm monitoring service. This article will go over everything you need to know about alarm monitoring to know whether if it’s worth it or not.
The basics of alarm monitoring
As the name suggests, alarm monitoring is a security service that monitors the state of your home’s security. This service is provided by a professional monitoring company and is integrated into your security system. Most alarm monitoring systems include components like door sensors, window sensors, flood and smoke alarms, cameras, and so much more. When the system is armed, anything that triggers these devices will sound the alarm and send a notification to the monitoring company.
Upon receiving the notification, the monitoring company will attempt to verify the threat via email, phone call, or text message. Once the threat has been verified, they will alert the right authorities (i.e. paramedics, firefighters, and police) depending on which devices have been triggered. In essence, alarm monitoring is a big part of a comprehensive security system that takes swift action right when you need it.
Say a fire broke out and the smoke detector triggers the alarm. The monitoring company will be alerted of the situation and immediately reach out to the local fire department to respond to your home. Many emergency scenarios like this require immediate intervention and if you aren’t home to respond, then the consequences can prove devastating. This is just an example of the many benefits of alarm monitoring and we’ll go over them in further detail down below.
Advantages of professional alarm monitoring
The value of alarm monitoring goes beyond improving home security. There are a whole host of reasons why one should strongly consider professional 
alarm monitoring and these are:
- Reduced insurance premiums
Having an alarm monitoring system installed in your property can lead to reduced insurance premiums by as much as 10% (depending on insurance policies). You can potentially recoup half the money you spent on alarm monitoring with just insurance discounts alone which is a win-win in our opinion. The vast majority of insurance companies are willing to lower the insurance premiums of homeowners who actively reinforce their home security. Because an alarm monitoring system reduces the risk of burglar and fire alarms, fewer claims will be filed and this is a huge benefit for the insurance company as well.
- Flexibility
Alarm monitoring services are highly customisable and can be tailored according to the needs and preference of homeowners. For example, you can choose to opt for a self-monitoring alarm system that provides remote viewing of CCTV footage from your phone or laptop. From there, it’s up to you on how to respond to the situation. Other homeowners prefer the safety and security of a professional alarm monitoring service because it eliminates the guesswork and allows the alarm monitoring company to take action for them.
Regardless of which option you choose, you’re getting an improved home security system that thoroughly safeguards your property, your family, and your most valuable assets.
- Peace of mind
With professional alarm monitoring, you’re getting a comprehensive security system that checks all the boxes for home safety. Even if your phone is turned off, the alarm monitoring company will reach out to your nominated contact list to verify the alarm. This can prove useful in instances where you have a weak phone signal or when the internet connection is down. The peace of mind that comes with an alarm monitoring system is one of the reasons why plenty of homeowners choose to have them installed. Your home is one of your biggest investments and it makes sense to install a comprehensive security system for stress and worry-free living.
- Extra protection
Some alarm monitoring companies offer added protection for their monitoring services like a guard response. The company dispatches an experienced security guard to check on your property and keep it secure until you, a trusted contact, or the local authorities arrive at the scene. They also throw in a roving security check to keep tabs on your property while you’re away for long periods (i.e. on vacation or during a business trip). These added elements can truly go a long way towards protecting your home from would-be burglars and criminals.
- Consistency
The best part of professional alarm monitoring is that it’s consistent and reliable. The alarm monitoring centre is active 24/7 and will respond to any alarm threat at any time. The service is always on and you don’t need to ask your friends or your neighbours to look after your property. Combine this with all of the other benefits of alarm monitoring and you’re getting a well-rounded security system that works every single time.