Security system monitoring: Should you DIY or pay a pro? (2024)

When you purchase a home security system, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to spring for live professional monitoring. This service can add significantly to the total cost of the system, but it can also make a big difference in how effectively it works. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of professional monitoring, what it entails, and the situations when professional monitoring might be worth the splurge, so you can make the best choice for your home’s security.

This story is part of TechHive’s in-depth coverage of the best smart home systems.

Self-Monitoring vs. professional monitoring

If you don’t currently own a security system, it’s important to first understand the two types of monitoring available to security DIYers.

Self-monitoring means that you, the homeowner or renter, are responsible for keeping an eye on your security system. When a sensor is triggered, you receive an alert via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. You are then responsible for checking the alert and determining the appropriate response. If there’s a break-in or another emergency, it’s up to you to contact emergency services.

Self-monitoring is generally more cost-effective than professional monitoring because there are no service fees, contracts, or long-term commitments. You also have complete control over your security system and how you respond to alerts.

This approach, however, requires you to be always available to promptly respond to alerts. In an emergency, quick response time is crucial. If you miss an alert or are unable to respond—say, because you’re in a work meeting, driving on the freeway, at the theater, or sound asleep—your home’s security could be compromised.

Professional monitoring involves a team of trained security professionals who monitor your security system from a central monitoring center 24/7. When a sensor is triggered, they assess the situation and take appropriate action. The exact protocol will vary by provider, but generally, they’ll first try to reach you to confirm the event and check that you’re okay. If you don’t or can’t respond, the agent will then contact the appropriate emergency services, to ensure a rapid response.

The primary advantage of professional monitoring is the peace of mind it provides. Knowing that your home is being monitored by professionals 24/7 can be incredibly reassuring. There is also some evidence that police trust the veracity of calls from professional monitoring agents more than those from the homeowners and renters themselves. Additionally, the burden of monitoring and responding to alerts is taken off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life without constantly worrying about your home’s security.

But these benefits come with additional costs. Professional monitoring services require a monthly or annual fee, which can add up over time. Some professional monitoring services may also require contracts or long-term commitments, which can be a disadvantage if you prefer flexibility or are renting your home. And while professional monitoring offers convenience, it also means giving up some control and relying on the monitoring center to make decisions about your home’s security.

How live monitoring services work

Live professional monitoring involves a sophisticated array of hardware, software, and human expertise to provide reliable security.

Smart home security systems include a range of devices such as cameras, motion sensors, door and window sensors, and central control panels for arming and disarming the system. These devices work together to provide comprehensive coverage of your home, ensuring that any unusual activity is detected and addressed promptly.

When a camera or sensor is triggered, the system sends an alert to the monitoring center. This alert includes essential information such as the type of sensor triggered, its location (i.e., which window or door), and the time of the event. This initial data allows monitoring professionals to quickly assess the situation and decide on the next steps.

One of the most significant challenges in home security is the high number of false alarms, which can overwhelm monitoring centers and reduce the overall efficiency of response teams. AI helps mitigate this issue by analyzing data from various sensors and cameras to accurately distinguish between real threats and benign activities. For instance, AI can differentiate between a tree branch moving in the wind and a person approaching the house. By filtering out false alarms, AI ensures that monitoring centers focus on genuine threats, improving response times and reducing unnecessary dispatches of emergency services.

Despite the advancements in AI, human oversight remains the most vital component of professional monitoring. While AI can analyze data and recognize patterns, human operators bring a level of contextual understanding that AI can’t replicate.

For example, motion detected near a door at night might be flagged by AI as suspicious. A monitoring agent can assess the significance of the event based on the context provided by live video feeds and other information, such as checking if the homeowner is expected home at that time or if there are other signs of forced entry. If a break-in is confirmed, agents can quickly coordinate with local law enforcement, provide them with real-time information, and offer support to the homeowner. This nuanced decision-making ensures more accurate and appropriate responses.

Benefits of professional monitoring services

Investing in live monitoring services comes with several significant benefits that can greatly enhance your security and peace of mind. Here’s a closer look at why these services are worth considering:

24/7 surveillance

One of the most compelling advantages of live monitoring is the round-the-clock surveillance it provides. Unlike self-monitored systems where you need to be constantly vigilant and available to respond to alerts, professional monitoring ensures that your home is watched over continuously. This is especially beneficial during times when you might be asleep, at work, or otherwise occupied.

Immediate incident response

In the event of an emergency, every second counts. Professional monitoring services are designed to respond instantly to alerts, ensuring that help is dispatched as quickly as possible. This immediate response can be crucial in minimizing damage from incidents such as break-ins, fires, or medical emergencies. The trained staff at the monitoring center can assess the situation in real-time and coordinate with local emergency services to provide the fastest possible response.

Peace of mind

Knowing that your home is being monitored by professionals 24/7 can provide immense peace of mind. This benefit is not just about physical security; it also alleviates the mental burden of constantly worrying about potential threats. That results in reduced stress and a greater sense of security, knowing that your home and loved ones are protected at all times.

When you should invest in professional monitoring

While professional monitoring offers many benefits, it’s important to consider whether it’s the right choice for your specific circ*mstances. Here are some scenarios where investing in live monitoring might be particularly beneficial:

You have valuable possessions

If you have high-value items in your home, such as jewelry, art, or expensive electronics, live monitoring can provide an added layer of protection. The immediate response to any suspicious activity can help prevent theft and ensure that your valuable possessions are safeguarded.

You live in a “high crime” neighborhood

If you live in an area with higher property crime rates, you might find live monitoring especially valuable. The constant surveillance and quick response to any potential threats can act as a strong deterrent to criminals, making your home less of a target.

You travel frequently

If you travel a lot, whether for work or leisure, live monitoring ensures that your home is protected even when you’re away. The service can provide a sense of security, knowing that any incidents will be promptly addressed by professionals in your absence.

You are, or live with, a vulnerable individual

If you live alone or with vulnerable individuals, such as elderly or disabled persons, you can benefit greatly from live monitoring. The immediate assistance available in case of emergencies, such as falls or medical issues, ensures that help is always just a call away.

You live in a big house

Larger homes with multiple entry points might benefit more from professional monitoring due to the increased complexity of managing security across a bigger area. Smaller homes or apartments can probably manage well enough with self-monitoring.

An overview of professional monitoring services

Home security system brands typically offer professional monitoring services as part of the premium tier of their cloud subscription plans. Let’s look at some popular smart home security systems and the professional monitoring services they offer. Each of these systems has previously been reviewed in-depth review by TechHive’s editors and contributors and is linked below for more information.

Ring

The Ring Alarm and Ring Alarm Pro security systems offer a comprehensive cloud subscription —the Ring Protect Plus plan—that includes video recording, cellular backup, and 24/7 professional monitoring. The monitoring service covers break-ins and fire emergencies and includes emergency dispatch of first responders. You can also contact the monitoring service to request help in the event of a medical emergency. The plan costs $20 per month or $200 per year.

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe’s Fast Protect Professional Monitoring enhances its SimpliSafe Essentialssecurity system with 24/7 live guard protection; during an active alarm inside your home, professional agents can access your camera’s video feed and microphone and attempt to divert the threat and dispatch police, if they’re unsuccessful. (The company is currently testing live guard protection outside homes as well.) Similarly, agents can dispatch fire, or medical help after verifying an emergency. The service costs about $30 a month.

Arlo

Arlo offers 24/7 professional monitoring for its Arlo Home Security System as part of its top tier Arlo Safe & Secure Pro plan. The service provides one-tap access to fire, police, or medical responders via dedicated buttons in the Arlo Secure App. When you tap one of these, an emergency agent contacts first responders to share your location and any additional information needed for the emergency response. The plan costs $24.99 per month or $299.99 per year and includes coverage for an unlimited number of Arlo security cameras.

Wyze Labs

Wyze Labs offers around-the-clock professional monitoring for its Wyze Home Monitoring system. When an alarm is triggered, you’ll get a text alert and receive a call from a monitoring agent. If you don’t respond within 60 seconds, they’ll call 911. The service costs $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year.

Abode

Professional monitoring is available for Abode’s Iota security system with its Pro plan for $24.99 a month or $229.99 a year. Triggered alarms are forwarded to a monitoring center for verification by agents who will dispatch the appropriate emergency services for a break-in, fire, or medical emergency.

Is it time to go pro?

It should be clear at this point that professional live monitoring offers a lot of advantages over keeping an eye on things yourself. With 24/7 surveillance, quick responses to any alarms, and the comfort of knowing your home is always being watched, these services can be a security game-changer. But before you dive in, make sure to weigh your personal needs, lifestyle, and budget to make sure it’s the right fit for you.