Put These 7 Home Security Myths to Rest Once and for All

These widespread home security fallacies simply won’t vanish. Why not improve your home security instead of letting them stop you?

It’s possible that you’ve read or simply assumed that home security systems are pricey, ineffective, and a bother to manage—a hassle you’ll have to put up with for years since you’re bound by a contract. These and other persistent beliefs are generally debunked, so you shouldn’t let them stop you from enhancing your home security system.

Inconveniences that once gave professional services like ADT, Vivint, and Xfinity a bad reputation are now largely defunct, but they remain the source of many home security system misconceptions. The introduction of DIY security systems, including Wi-Fi cameras, video doorbells, motion detectors, and more, helped to disprove many of the most common myths about home security.

You could still be hesitant to commit to a professionally installed or a do-it-yourself security system because of the persistent, baseless, and out-of-date home security myth. Here are seven typical home security myths and the reasons why they are simply that: myths. (For additional advice on home security, see the articles on how to use an old smartphone as a security camera and the three areas you should never put a security camera.)

Myth: Home security systems are expensive

If the initial and recurring costs of a home security system are greater than the worth of the items that were lost or stolen, what is the point? It’s a valid point, but investing in DIY home security may be less expensive than you’d imagine.

Even though it’s true that the price of a professional home security system can rise quickly, it’s usual for home security firms to run promotions that might save you hundreds on both equipment and installation. It is entirely feasible to receive a basic system for free with installation depending on the provider and available promotions (yes, you will need to sign a contract, but more on that in the following section).

On the other hand, if you want to set up your own home security system, you’ll need to buy all the necessary equipment. Still, for a couple hundred dollars or less, you can acquire all the equipment you need to keep an eye on your house from inside and out, including cameras and motion detectors.

Not all DIY devices support professional monitoring, but if it is offered with your camera or security system, expect to pay an additional monthly charge of $10 to $25 for typically an unlimited number of devices. In many cases, annual payments are less expensive than monthly ones.

Myth: You have to sign a contract, or at least have a subscription

Once more, this statement was made by experts in home security, and it is still accurate in some circumstances. A one- or two-year contract is typically required by home security providers, especially if you choose any promotional options like free equipment or installation. However, a contract is not necessarily necessary: Some companies, such as Xfinity and SimpliSafe, do not require you to sign one.

Additionally, DIY setups eliminate any contract-related concerns since systems from companies like Arlo, Ring, Wyse, and others are always free of contracts. The same goes for monthly subscriptions, though you might want to add one if you want expert monitoring or greater storage choices. A subscription can cover an unlimited number of devices for as little as $10 per month (or even for nothing, as is the case with Wyse and its “choose your price” option with a Cam Plus Lite subscription).

No issue if you don’t want to pay for a subscription. A monitoring app is included with cameras, motion detectors, and other DIY home security equipment. When a motion or sound event is detected, it can even help you with your home security efforts by delivering push notifications.

Bottom line: A contract, subscription, or other continuing fee-requiring requirement is not a given when it comes to home security.

Myth: Home security systems are complicated

I fully comprehend any hesitation you may be experiencing. I quickly put wiring-related house projects in the “get someone else to do it” category whenever they arise.

Fortunately, someone else (a professional installer) will undertake the labor-intensive task for you when you choose a professionally installed home security system. At the time of setup, they will also coach you through how to utilize the system. Technical assistance and online materials are available around-the-clock for any issues you may run into.

There shouldn’t be any wiring necessary for DIY security devices other than plugging them in and connecting them to your Wi-Fi. Although they are an exception, hardwired video doorbells may still be installed quickly and easily, as I can attest to myself. In either case, an app will walk you through every step of setup, installation, and use.

Myth: I need a landline for a home security system

Continue that misconception by saying “and thieves can cut it to stop my system.” Even professionally built and monitored home security systems are no longer required to have a landline.

Professional systems like those from ADT, SimpliSafe, Vivant, and Xfinity do not require a landline, so there is no extra cost for a phone service you wouldn’t otherwise use and no chance of a burglar cutting the connection.

DIY gadgets won’t require a landline either, but you will still need to link them to your Wi-Fi. Although it’s improbable that an intruder will cut your internet line and shut down your system, Wi-Fi networks and any associated gadgets are in fact susceptible to hacking. Take the necessary safety measures to maintain the security of your Wi-Fi connection.

Myth: I rent, so I can’t get a home security system

Whether you own a house or rent, your property and safety are vital, and renters have many options for home security. These gadgets frequently don’t require drilling holes in the wall, mounting, or permanent wiring, and they can include all the features you’d need for home security, such as push notifications, access to live camera feeds and recordings, professional monitoring options, and emergency response assistance.

Before installing a system, check with your leasing office or the property owner, and be sure to stay away from any gadgets that can invade your neighbor’s privacy.

Myth: Home security systems aren’t effective

Depending on what you mean when you say “effective,” Even the best security system won’t deter someone who is determined to enter your home. However, the installation of a security system or surveillance camera is an excellent deterrent if someone is thinking about breaking into your house or stealing a package off your porch.

According to a University of North Carolina research, 83% of professional burglars who were interviewed said they would check to see if a house or place of business has a security alarm before trying to break in. About 60% of respondents said they would look for a different target if an alarm was raised.

Unfortunately, thefts and break-ins can still occur, but a home security system will deter burglars from feeling at ease in your house. It may be sufficient to stop any further criminal behavior simply turn on sirens or spotlights and use two-way audio to alert intruders that authorities are on the way.

Even if the burglar succeeds, your security equipment may record photographs, videos, or audio that help identify and apprehend them. At the absolute least, you can utilize the knowledge to tell your neighbors and aid in averting similar incidents in the future.

Myth: My insurance will cover a burglary

The majority of homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies will pay all or part of the costs to replace lost or stolen property or cover house damage like a shattered window or smashed door. Your insurance may not entirely cover your total loss, though, as many insurance companies have limits on how much they’ll pay out.

Additionally, bear in mind that insurance companies will only pay out for the cost of replacing the actual object; they will not, however, cover any potential intangible or sentimental worth. The insurance provider cannot replace your family photos stored on your laptop, your sentimental tie to a piece of jewelers, or even the hours you invested in a saved video game file.

The bottom line on common home security myths

Don’t let the voice in the back of your head that says “it’ll cost too much, you’ll need a landline phone” deter you from upgrading your home security system or beginning from scratch.

While many of the misconceptions about home security services and products are either out of date or just wrong, there is some validity to them. Do your research to locate the best option for your needs, just like with any service or home improvement. You’ll probably discover that every negative aspect of home security you’ve heard about or imagined is addressed by a gadget, an accompanying software, or a service.

Check out the top security blunders you may make at home for additional information. Learn how to prevent car break-ins, deter porch pirates, and what to keep in a safe.