Protecting your home or apartment in the Queen City can be a major concern. Home security systems provide the safety that residents seek. By monitoring the residence and property with cameras, sensors and alarms, homeowners and renters can feel confident that they and their belongings are safe and secure. To help you make sense of your options, our partners at ConsumerAffairs researched the best home security systems in Buffalo.
Buffalo’s crime rate is high. In fact, Buffalo is safer than only four percent of U.S. cities, according to neighborhoodscout.com. With its significantly higher-than-average rates of violent crime, the city consistently makes lists of the country’s most dangerous metropolitan areas.
Neighborhoods with high rates of crime can be found in all directions from downtown, but many are in eastern and northern Buffalo. Even in the safest areas, crime can occur. Having a home security system will help deter criminal activity and alert authorities immediately if you are the victim of a crime.
Home alarm permits required in Buffalo
When purchasing a home security system in Buffalo, you’ll need to have an alarm permit. This permit costs $20 and must be renewed biannually.
If you’re living outside of Buffalo, home security system providers in the Buffalo area will be able to help you determine whether a permit is needed, what the fee is and how often it needs to be renewed. An alarm permit ensures that you get timely responses from emergency services and can help you avoid fines for false alarms.
Home security features for top companies in Buffalo
With many options, it’s important to decide your needs, your home’s characteristics and your comfort level with technology.
Features of home security systems may include:
Common standard features
Upgrade features
Standard control panel
Touch-screen, color control panel
24/7 monitoring
Live video surveillance
Entry and motion sensors
Complete smart home automation
Yard signs, window stickers
Smoke & CO2 detectors
Home alarm installation in Buffalo: Professional vs. DIY
Depending on which company you choose, you’ll opt into DIY installation or professional installation. DIY installation is typically cheaper and you don’t have to coordinate your schedule with an installer. DIY home security systems are simple, so the work is minimal and straightforward. Renters should choose DIY home security as the wireless cameras and equipment are easy on your walls.
With a professional installation you get certainty that the equipment is set up correctly and optimized for your security; often companies will offer discounts for this option or waive the fee as an incentive to sign up.
Protect Your Home teams up with security expert ADT to deliver customizable home security solutions with motion sensor technology and intruder warnings that can be monitored remotely. Systems are easy-to-use yet offer maximum, layered protection. Customer reviews highlight the timely and knowledgable installation technicians who can often be at your home within 24 hours.
Vivint offers customizable plans and professional installation. Their high-tech equipment can integrate with mobile and voice control to automate your home. Customers in Buffalo talk about how efficient and easy installation was and how polite installers were. Some reviewers have negative things to say about the length of the company’s contracts.
Protect America has plans for those who want to keep costs low or desire a long-term commitment. They offer three types of service: wireless, broadband and landline. They also have a price-match guarantee and will lock in rates. Customers can add on and customize if they so desire. Reviewers have complained about automatic renewal and equipment, but others mention fantastic customer service.
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Doyle Security
Doyle Security has over 100 years of experience providing security in upstate New York, including for Buffalo residents. Customers can choose from several different packages or design a custom solution. Buffalo customers were happy to deal with such a courteous and affordable company. Additionally, they love the equipment. Doyle Security is Better Business Bureau accredited with an A+ rating.
Powered Protection
Powered Protection, based in Buffalo, offers a full array of security system products, including smart home automation like wireless door locking. Contracts range from one to four years. Customers in Buffalo comment about the company’s professionalism and the quality of the products. They also mention affordability. Powered Protection is BBB-accredited with an A+ rating.
Cove Security
Cove offers professional-grade DIY home alarms that are fast and easy to install. Cove’s wireless home security system requires no contract and comes with a money-back guarantee. Design your home security package online and have it shipped the next day. Reviewers give Cove high marks for customer satisfaction and affordability.
