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Home Security Systems & Home Alarm Companies in San Mateo County serving Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, Broadmoor Village, Burlingame, Colma, Daly City, El Granada, Emerald Hills, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Hillsborough, La Honda, Loma Mar, Menlo Park, Millbrae, Montara, Moss Beach, Pacifica, Palomar Park, Pescadero, Portola Valley, Princeton by the Sea, Redwood City, San Bruno, San Carlos, San Gregorio, San Mateo, Sharp Park, South SF, West Menlo Park and Woodside

Find the Best Home Security Systems and Home Alarm Companies in San Mateo County

As a home or business owner, safety and security is paramount, whether it be for your family or your property. Whether you are looking for motion detectors or home video surveillance cameras, there are some good home security systems and home alarm companies in San Mateo County who sell and install burglar alarms and home security systems.

The following research by The Prime Buyer's Report identifies the best alarm companies in San Mateo County and issues related to buying alarm systems and monitoring.

Find the Best Home Security Systems and Home Alarm Companies in San Mateo County 

Alarm companies in San Mateo County are legally required to have a state license from the California BSIS (Bureau of Secruity and Investigative Services) to allow them to operate a business that sells (at the buyer's home or business), installs, monitors, maintains, services, or responds to alarm systems or supervises such actions. Retail stores do not have to be licensed if they sell alarm systems only at the store and do not install alarms or perform any alarm monitoring functions.

Having this license means they have specified one individual at their company as the Qualified Manager who must clear the criminal history background check, completed 4,000 hours of paid experience in alarm company work, and passed a two-hour exam.  Any employees of theirs who sell or install monitor, maintain or service alarms, must each be registered individually with the state as an Alarm Agent which requires passing a criminal background check only.

If the alarm company sends employees to your property, you need them to carry workers' compensation insurance. If a worker is injured on your property and the company doesn't have this insurance, you could be liable to pay for their injuries and your homeowner's insurance may not cover those costs. 

 

Alarm companies in San Mateo County are not legally required to have liability insurance; however, all alarm companies bearing the Prime Buyer's Report—TOP 10 designation have general liability insurance coverage which reimburses you the customer in the event of any damages, in addition to passing all other requirements for certification as Prime Buyer's Report—TOP 10 such as our research phone calls to their previous clients, hiring only documented workers, verified license and workers' comp insurance, clean complaint record, and more.

Home Security Systems in San Mateo County Offer the Latest in Home Security Technology
Security system and alarm companies in San Mateo County have a variety of options from which to choose. Qualified companies can install security card readers, key pads, electric locks, door alarms or any number of other access control systems.

Home alarm companies in San Mateo County with the proper training can add to your home or business security system with more sophisticated features, including closed-circuit television / CCTV security systems, wireless video surveillance systems, hidden video or digital security cameras, video domes, time-lapse VCRs and other monitoring hardware.

Licensed security system dealers in San Mateo County usually carry needed individual components for home security systems, such as wire cable, connectors, and weatherproof accessories. Some also stock security system items that fall outside of the realm of anti-theft security devices.

Some Alarm Companies in San Mateo County Provide Additional Security Services
In addition to the sales of home security surveillance and wireless home monitoring equipment, many of the best burglar alarm and home security alarm companies in San Mateo County offer complete building security for commercial, residential, governmental, and medical properties. These may include 24 hour on-call security system maintenance for new or existing commercial security systems, or round-the-clock video surveillance from a central unit operated by the company.

Some alarm companies offer money-back guarantees against theft, service problems, or relocation. Many home alarm and home security surveillance companies also offer alarm monitoring and response. Patrol services require a PPO license (Private Patrol Operator). 

Not All Alarm Companies in San Mateo County Are Equal

The Prime Buyer's Report lists these home security companies in San Mateo County: California Security Pro, Fox Security & Communications, Norcal Alarm, Peninsula Security Services, First Alarm, Tri County Alarm Systems Inc, Associated Security Alarm Co, HMB Alarms, Hue & Cry Security Systems Inc. Other home alarm companies that might still serve Redwood City, South SF and Burlingame include: .

 

 

Questions To Ask Alarm Companies in San Mateo County 

When choosing a company for security system or burglar alarms, ask these questions about their experience, range of services, and credentials before deciding.



• How long have they been doing alarms or security systems in San Mateo County specifically?

 
• How many installations have they done similar to yours, in terms of size of job, residential versus business, alarm only versus monitoring service or security cameras, etc.?

• Do they offer ongoing maintenance or repair services after installation?

• Can the alarm company give you names and numbers of customers who had a similar kind of installation done who you can call as references? (All alarm companies bearing the Prime Buyer's Report—TOP 10 symbol have already had their customer references called by our research staff so you don't have to.)


• Will they provide a written estimate that is detailed, including the exact products and parts to be used, including brand names, and product numbers?  (This is key because cheap alarm companies in San Mateo County often only seem cheaper because they are using inferior equipment that is more prone to malfunctions or just performs poorly.)

• How long will it take them to complete the alarm installation?


• What are the manufacturer warranties on the equipment?


• Do they provide a written warranty for their labor, aside from manufacturer warranties?

• After you explain what you want in a security system, is there a similar, but less expensive alternative to what you've asked for and what would you lose? Similarly, is there a big leap in quality or function that can be had for just a little bit more money?



• How are false alarms handled? If your local police department imposes a fee for responding to a false alarm who will pay that if it is due to faulty equipment, you or the alarm company?


• Can the alarm company vouch that all employees sent to your property are legal to work in the U.S.? (All security system companies in San Mateo County bearing The Prime Buyer's Report—TOP 10 symbol have already signed an agreement to only hire documented workers.)

• Will they show you proof of active workers' compensation and liability insurance? (All alarm companies bearing the Prime Buyer's Report—TOP 10 symbol have already had proof of insurance verified by our research staff so you don't have to.)




When you've chosen the best alarm company in San Mateo County for your specific needs, make sure they are properly licensed by the State of California. (All alarm companies bearing the Prime Buyer's Report—TOP 10 symbol have already had their license verified by our research staff so you don't have to.)
 

 

 

Tips On Home Security Systems and Home Alarm Companies in San Mateo County 

Insist on Documentation From Good San Mateo County Home Security Companies
Until your agreement with a home security system company is in writing and signed, it is not official. So make sure your home alarm representative provides a written contract that details all aspects of the intended home security system work, including time estimates, labor details and pricing.

Verify Credentials for the Best Home Security Systems Companies in San Mateo County
If you intend to hire a home security company for any installation work, make sure they have the appropriate licensure for the tasks you require. Most installation procedures require contractor licensing (e.g., CCTV setup requires a low voltage systems contractor license; installation of metal window guards or electronic access control systems requires a lock and security equipment contractor license). For more information on the stipulated tasks of each contractor license type, visit the Web site for the Contractor State License Board. Additionally, other regulatory agencies require home security companies to meet their standards. Verify that your chosen business is up to date with ACO licensing and, if relevant, Private Patrol Operator (PPO) licensing. 

Educate Yourself about the Best Home Security Systems and Home Alarms
Use some of the resources listed in "Key Consumer Resources for Home Security Systems and Home Alarms in San Mateo County" to familiarize yourself with types of home alarm systems the terminology of the home security alarm industry. 

Protect Yourself When Working with Redwood City CA Home Security Professionals
Because so much is at stake, the home security system industry is strictly monitored and regulated. As a consumer, there are certain statues you should become familiar with before entering into an agreement with a home security systems and home alarm systems vendor or contractor. Find these details at the Web site for the State of California Department of Consumer Affairs. 

Inquire About Home Security System Compatibility
Certain systems still allow for features like "local-programming lockout" and "proprietary" servicing. These features allow home alarm companies to make residential alarm systems inaccessible to competing alarm maintenance companies. Fortunately, some new burglar alarm and home security system manufacturers do not include this feature.

 

 

Terms Related To Home Alarms and Home Security Systems in Redwood City, South SF and Burlingame 

 

Common Home Security System and Home Alarm Terms

 

Access Control System - These commercial security systems control access to businesses and commercial areas. Some access control systems allow for facial recognition, hand printing and fingerprint access.

Alarm Monitoring - When home alarm monitoring systems are triggered, the security alarm signal transmits to the home security company who can then dispatch police to the scene.

Alarm System Control Panel - The part of a home surveillance or commercial security system that compiles all the information from the sensors and detectors.

Alarm Systems - Alarm systems for home security or business security trigger audio or visual warnings when the alarm system is breached. Home security cameras, wireless home security systems, intruder alarm systems and CCTV (closed-circuit television) security cameras can all be part of modern alarm systems.

Burglar Alarm - Burglar alarms are alarm systems designed to deter burglars and intruders who enter a protected area, such as a home or business. Some burglar alarms automatically alert authorities if there is a break-in.

Business Security System - Business security systems protect your business and employees from break-ins. Along with burglar alarms, business security systems and commercial alarm systems may also include video surveillance and CCTV security systems.

CCTV Security Systems (Closed-Circuit Television) - CCTV security systems are often part of video surveillance systems. Images on CCTV security systems (closed circuit television security systems) can only be viewed in a small area and are not visible to public TV viewers.

Central Station - The facility or monitoring center for home alarm and business security systems are called central stations. These home protection companies call police and report information when security systems are triggered. All home alarm monitoring central stations are staffed 24 hours a day.

Decoders - Tools and programs that decode data collected by burglar alarms and home security systems.

Delay Zones - Some home security zones are called delay zones because they wait for a specified time before the home alarm is activated.

Digital Video Monitoring Systems - Digital monitoring alarm systems are video security systems. These home video security systems are attached to computers or VCR or DVR recorders so any information picked up by home security cameras is recorded.

Disarm - When a homeowner or business owner turns off or deactivates their home alarm system or business security system.

Dual Detectors - Some home alarm systems require more than one trigger to activate the alarm system. These are called dual detectors, and they are less likely to have false alarms.

DVR CCTV Recorders - DVR CCTV Recorders (digital video closed-circuit television recorders) record surveillance camera video.

Electronic Surveillance System - Electronic surveillance systems protect businesses and homes burglars. These electronic surveillance systems usually are built with closed-circuit televisions (CCTV security systems), security cameras, burglar alarms and door alarms.

Emergency Response Locator - Emergency response locators are signs that warn off burglars and direct home security response units to your home in the event of a home security breach.

False Alarm - Sometimes home alarm systems and commercial burglar alarms are accidentally set off by homeowners, employees or pets. False alarms are a major downfall of many home security systems, but your home security company can help you find ways to limit the number of false alarms from your home security system.

Home Security - Home security is the measure of safety for your home and family. You can easily increase your home security and the safety of your property and loved ones by installing security alarm systems and home alarms.

Home Security System - A home security system is an alarm system that secures your home from burglars and threats. Home security systems often include home alarms, wireless security systems, home security cameras and home security monitoring by home surveillance companies.

Instant Zones - Home security zones that immediately trigger home alarms with no delay after a breach.

Interior Security Systems - Home security devices and commercial security alarms that are located inside the protected area.

Keypad - The part of a home alarm system that looks like a keyboard. This keypad is where homeowners enter a numeric code to arm or disarm the home security system.

Local Alarm - Sirens, bells or alarm sounds that are audible within the home. Local alarm systems do not link to alarm dispatch companies.

Monitored Alarm - Monitored alarm systems may or may not sound an audible alarm when breached. However, they send a signal to a central monitoring station, where dispatchers then alert local authorities to the home alarm.

Motion Sensors - Commonly called PIR (passive infrared) motion sensors, motion sensors "see" infrared energy, or heat, from an intruder's body and activate a burglar alarm. Motion sensor alarms do not work through walls or glass, however, so the burglar needs to be in your home or business before he or she is detected.

Perimeter Systems - Perimeter alarm systems are home security systems that attach to exterior doors. Only when an intruder bypasses these home alarms will the home monitoring system be triggered.

PIR Motion Sensors - Also called motion sensors, these passive infrared security alarm systems sense heat from a burglar's body and activate a burglar alarm.

Remote Security Alarms - Also called remote video monitoring systems (RVM), remote security alarms use video information for home protection services.

Remote Video Monitoring - Also called remote video surveillance or remote security alarms, remote video monitoring systems (RVM) use video feeds for information. These video feeds are reviewed by home security specialists, who trigger an alarm if there is an intrusion.

Video Surveillance Systems - Video surveillance systems can look like burglar alarms, home security systems or commercial business alarm systems. These video surveillance systems link to a central monitoring station and usually link to security cameras for extra home protection and business security measures.

Wireless Alarm Systems - Home security systems that use radio waves to send signals to the control panel. These wireless home alarm systems can be used on the interior or the exterior of the home.

Zones - Good home alarm systems separate areas of the home into areas called zones. These zones are specially designated with home security cameras or alarm systems that can specify which area of the home was tripped. Each zone may be secured or unlocked separate of the other home security zones.

 

 

 

Home Alarm Brands and Home Security Systems Offered
ADEMCO Home Security Systems	home security systems motion detectors wireless door alarms wireless home security systems commercial security systems wireless burglar alarms entry management systems CCTV security systems home video security Honeywell security systems
ADT Home Security Systems	home security systems burglar alarms home video surveillance systems CCTV security systems home alarm systems wireless home security systems home security cameras monitored security surveillance systems business security systems  zone alarm systems
APX Alarm Systems	home security systems burglar alarms voice system home security wireless home security systems Honeywell Security alarms DIY alarms glassbreak detectors infrared motion sensors door sensors window sensors monitored home security systems
Brink's Home Security Systems	home alarm systems burglar alarms monitored surveillance systems wireless security system remotes home security sirens zone alarms home security glass break sensors home security motion detectors commercial security systems
DSC Home Security Systems	wireless alarm systems motion detectors burglar alarms home alarm systems home security systems access control systems glassbreak detectors CCTV security systems
GE Home Security Systems	home security systems commercial security systems institutional security systems government security systems remote alarm security systems wireless security systems basic home alarm systems security cameras video surveillance systems home alarm monitoring personal security equipment
Home Guard Security Services	affordable home alarm systems basic home security systems door sensors and door alarms window alarms monitored home security systems wireless security system equipment burglar alarms zone alarms voice feedback security systems telephone backup security systems
Honeywell Security Systems	home security systems motion detectors energy-efficient home security systems security cameras video security systems monitored home surveillance systems Apex security systems ADEMCO security systems home security burglar alarms
Napco Security Systems, Inc.	home security systems wireless home alarm systems zone home surveillance systems monitored security systems home security door alarms home security window alarms CCTV video surveillance systems home security cameras home alarms home video security systems
Simon Home Security Systems	low cost home security panels wireless home alarm systems keychain remote home security systems motion detector surveillance systems monitored home security systems home video security systems security cameras
Siren Home Security Systems	wireless home alarm systems residential security systems commercial security systems voice monitoring home security systems burglar alarms home alarm monitoring services

 

 

Resources About Home Security Systems and Home Alarm Companies in San Mateo County 

Associations & Licensing for Home Security Systems & Home Alarms in San Mateo County CA

ANSI American National Standards Institute (http://www.ansi.org/)
BBB Better Business Bureau (http://www.bbb.com/)
CAA California Alarm Association (http://www.caaonline.org/)
CSLB Contractor State License Board (http://www.cslb.ca.gov/)
CSAA Central Station Alarm Association (http://www.csaaul.org/)
DCA State of California Department of Consumer Services (http://www.dca.ca.gov/)
Diamond Certified www.diamondcertified.org
NASCO National Association of Security Companies (http://www.www.nasco.org/)
NBFAA National Burglar Alarm Association (http://www.alarm.org/)
NSA National Sheriff's Association (http://www.sheriffs.org/)
SIA Security Industry Association (http://www.siaonline.org/)
SIAC Security Industry Alarm Coalition (http://www.siacinc.org/)



Print Media & Web Resources for Home Security System Installers & Home Alarms

Access Control & Security Systems Magazine
Electronic House Magazine
Protection, Automation and Control (PAC) World Magazine
Security Dealer Magazine
Security Distributing and Marketing Magazine
Security Management Magazine
Security Systems News
Security Technology & Design Magazine
Security Trade Association Trade Digest 

The Prime Buyer's Report provides information on the TOP 10 Home Security Systems & Alarms in San Mateo County by zip code:

94002, 94005, 94010, 94011, 94014, 94015, 94016, 94017, 94018, 94019, 94020, 94021, 94025, 94026, 94027, 94028, 94030, 94037, 94038, 94044, 94060, 94061, 94062, 94063, 94064, 94065, 94066, 94070, 94074, 94080, 94083, 94096, 94098, 94128, 94401, 94402, 94403 and 94404

 

 

 

 

Security & Alarms Belmont CA

DEA Security Systems Co Belmont CA 94002
Premier Security Solutions Belmont CA 94002

Security & Alarms Brisbane CA

Kitech Security System Brisbane CA 94005
Watchtower Security Systems Brisbane CA 94005

Security & Alarms Burlingame CA

Tri County Alarm Systems Inc Burlingame CA 94010
Bay Alarm Co Burlingame CA 94010

Security & Alarms Daly City CA

Adt Authorized Dealer Daly City CA 94015
Federal Security Service Corp Daly City CA 94014
Sound Services Daly City CA 94015

Security & Alarms Foster City CA

Alarm Network Foster City CA 94404

Security & Alarms Half Moon Bay CA

HMB Alarms Half Moon Bay CA 94019

Security & Alarms Hillsborough CA

Admark Security Systems Hillsborough CA 94010

 

Security & Alarms Millbrae CA

City Alarm & Electronics Millbrae CA 94030

 

Security & Alarms Redwood City CA

Norcal Alarm Redwood City CA 94063
Peninsula Security Service Redwood City CA 94063
Qualys Inc Redwood City CA 94065

Security & Alarms South SF CA

ADI South SF CA 94080
Associated Security Alarm Co South SF CA 94080
Allied Security Alarms South SF CA 94080

Security & Alarms San Carlos CA

Fox Security & Communications San Carlos CA 94070

Security & Alarms San Mateo CA

Hue & Cry Security Systems Inc San Mateo CA 94401
Norcal Alarm San Mateo CA 94402
First Alarm San Mateo CA 94403
California Security Alarms Inc San Mateo CA 94402

Security & Alarms Woodside CA

Joe Kirley Alarm Co Woodside CA 94062