What You Need To Know

We have listed a few things you should be aware of when considering a alarm contractor.

• Make sure that all installers are properly licensed. You should NEVER let unlicensed installers on your project. You could be held equally responsible.
• Never have a system installed without a detailed contract. The contract should list all products being installed with model numbers. Too many companies put generic items on the paper and you may get something of inferior build. By using a generic contract with little detail your company will have very little recourse if something does not turn out the way you want it.
• Systems should never be accepted without a very thorough third party inspection. These inspections will help uncover any code violations or failures to follow manufacturers requirements. This step is very important and failure to do this may leave you financially holding the proverbial bag should something show up at a later date you thought was included.
• Life Safety systems are required in most states to be maintained and inspected. One of the biggest issues we see deal with double inspections by different companies. Each year companies are told lies which lead them into signing contracts that lock them in for double inspections and double the fees. FSCi offers total system management. We make sure it gets inspected according to code and by licensed inspectors. We handle all documentation for you so you never have to worry about these types of deceptive practices. We also make sure you are getting the best price which reduces expenditures and that the services are bid out each year to reputable companies.
• When a proposal is given ask them to put into writing that they have supplied all parts and labor required for a complete systems. There are companies that purposely underbid jobs to get the bid, then require additional money because they "forgot" something or did not include parts that would make your system code compliant. FSCI never charges more once a quote is given unless you add something. If we forgot something we put it in at our expense. We put that in writing.
• You have probably seen advertisements from national chains and some local saying they will install a system for free. Nothing is ever free!! First, when reading the fine print you will find a installation labor charge from $100 to $300.00. Second, you will be required to sign a three year contract ranging from $35.95/month to over $100/month. You may also never own the system or the wiring. You will always pay the monthly charge you started with. It does not magically go down after the contract. Third, the contracts may automatically extend another 3 years without any notice. Last, some companies put custom chips in the control panels or will lock them out so no one else can take the system over at the end of three years. FSCI will always give you the lockout code should you decide to try another company. Our $199.00 installs is designed to give you complete ownership after the first three years. Best of all our monthly charge on these systems starts at only $15/mth and may go to $25.95/month depending on the features you request. You get to decide the final monthly charge.
• Look for experience. Many sales people have never installed a system so how would they know what it really takes. Its like going to the doctor and having the Nurses Aid sell you on a heart transplant.
• System Monitoring Requirements. This can be a real problem in a time when people use their cell phones and turn off their home land lines. Make sure you always let the security company know if you plan to shut of your home phone lines. Most systems rely on them for their communications. Some systems on the market such has DSC have modules available for an extra cost that will send signals by cellular and internet.
• Monitoring Contracts. Many monitoring contracts have a cancellation fee if you do not conform to the term of the contract. Always look for the term of the contract, the monthly or annual price, and cancellation fees. Most times you will be required to pay for the remainder of the contract due for early cancellation. Make sure you understand the full contract and ask questions. If something seems questionable be sure to ask your rep and get the answer in writing on company letterhead. If any simple changes are needed be sure that those changes are initialed by both parties to the contract.
• Ongoing Cost. Many people fail to ask about the service rate they will be charged when they need service. Know normal and after hour service rates and what is or is not covered by the warranty. These cost can add up fast if your not careful. Also take into consideration the type of system you are purchasing. If it is wireless there will be on-going cost that is not covered by warranty. Battery replacement on some systems require a trained technician to change the batteries. Be sure to ask what the estimated battery life is on your wireless system. You also need to know that there is a backup battery in your system that must be replaced every 3-5 years.

 

Using a company like FSCi will protect your best interest and keep everyone honest. Using all of FSCi services may save you money not only now but in the future. Our guidelines are strict and our approach very detailed to insure a great system installation at a great price.