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Prime Buyers Guide Home Security Systems & Home Alarm Companies

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 a number of experienced, widely recommended home security systems and home alarm companies in San Mateo County who sell burglar alarms and home security systems. The articles below will aide you in your search for professional home security systems in Redwood City, South SF and Burlingame.

Updated May 7, 2012

Top 10 Home Security Systems & Home Alarm Companies in San Mateo County

California Security Pro
Send an email to this Company
(800) 310-9490
2551 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Ste 217
San Ramon, CA 94583
State License #ACO5567
   Prime Buyer's Report TOP 10  Better Business Bureau ADT Authorized Dealer

Areas Served: Bay Area & San Mateo County incl. San Mateo CA, Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, ...
Services: ADT dealers, alarms, wireless security systems, security cameras, home alarms, ...
Key Brands: ADT, DSC, Honeywell, GE, Ademco, Brinks, Broadview Security

Peninsula Security Services
(650) 369-7100
1755 E Bayshore Rd # 28B
Redwood City, CA 94063

Areas Served: San Mateo, Redwood City, Burlingame, Atherton, Hillsborough, Foster City, Belmont CA

Fox Security & Communications
(650) 631-7297
611 Taylor Way # 2
San Carlos, CA 94070

Areas Served: Redwood City, San Mateo, Burlingame, Hillsborough, Millbrae, San Bruno, Atherton

Norcal Alarm
(650) 363-1636
1757 E Bayshore Rd # 5
Redwood City, CA 94063

Areas Served: Redwood City, San Mateo, Burlingame, Millbrae, Brisbane, San Bruno, Atherton

First Alarm
(650) 556-1111
Woodside, CA 94061

Areas Served: San Mateo, Burlingame, Redwood City, Woodside, Menlo Park, Atherton, Belmont CA

HMB Alarms
(650) 345-1765
1009 S Claremont St
San Mateo, CA 94402

Areas Served: Redwood City, San Mateo, Burlingame, Millbrae, Brisbane, San Bruno, Atherton

Tri County Alarm Systems Inc
(650) 685-6290
1014 Edwards Rd
Hillsborough, CA 94010

Areas Served: San Mateo, Millbrae, Burlingame, Foster City, Redwood City, Hillsborough, San Bruno

Associated Security Alarm Co
(650) 347-5551
1325 Howard Ave
Hillsborough, CA 94010

Areas Served: San Mateo County, incl. Redwood City, Burlingame, Hillsborough, Menlo Park, Atherton

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

San Mateo County Home Security System Professionals Offer the Latest in Home Security Technology
In San Mateo County, home security systems and home alarm companies carry a variety of products from which to choose. There are a number of new home security system features that may enhance the integrity of your home security system. If you want to secure the entry of your home or business, 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 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 dealers also stock security system items that fall outside of the realm of anti-theft security devices.


Home Alarm Companies in San Mateo County Back Their Products with Additional Security Services
Most burglar alarm companies and home security system installers in the Redwood City, South SF and Burlingame area offer standard security services, including customized security devices, as well as home security system installation services, which require at least a C7 contractor license. The best home security companies in San Mateo County keep clients confident in their home alarm services by offering a number of safety features with their home security system installation and sales.

In addition to the sales of home security surveillance and wireless home monitoring equipment, 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.

The best alarm companies hire only NICET certified home security technicians for security system installation and home alarm maintenance, and offer money-back guarantees against theft, service problems, or relocation. Some home alarm and home security surveillance companies also offer monitored home alarms and patrol service, which requires a Private Patrol Operator (PPO) license. This particular licensing can be checked through the California Department of Consumer Affairs. 

Use  Discretion When Choosing San Mateo County Home Security System Dealers
It takes more than a generic application fee to run a home security business.
In the State of California, individuals who operate home security surveillance businesses are required to obtain Alarm Company Operator (ACO) licensing. For the safety of the consumer, this licensing can only be attained after a criminal history review is conducted by the Department of Justice and the FBI.

The home security industry is also strictly regulated by agencies like the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) and the California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA). Screen potential security companies against these crucial criteria.

The Prime Buyer's Report article "Key Consumer Resources for Home Security and Alarms in San Mateo County" should help you screen the best home alarm systems and home security companies in the San Mateo County area. We've taken the time to screen a number of the top home alarm companies in Redwood City. By company merit, customer satisfaction, and credentials, we've ranked the top home security and alarm companies in San Mateo County above.

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

 

 

Choosing the Best Home Security and Burglar Alarm Companies in San Mateo County 

Before you commit to a San Mateo County home security business, screen several companies carefully to learn about any work history, community reputation, and pricing standards. Start by calling a handful of early contenders and posing them the following questions.

• How long have the home security companies been in business?

• Do the home security companies have local San Mateo County references you may contact?

• Will the Redwood City CA home alarm companies provide a written estimate?

• How long should it take the home security companies to complete installation or home alarm services?

• How do the home security companies price parts and labor for home alarm systems and burglar alarm surveillance systems?

• Can the home security companies customize a security system to your needs?

• Do the home security and burglar alarm companies have CCTV or security cameras available for video surveillance security systems?

• Do the home security companies in San Mateo County offer warranties for home security system parts or labor?

• What type of licensing and/or certifications do the home security companies and their home alarm installers hold (e.g., NICET, NFBAA)?

• Do the home alarm system companies provide maintenance on preexisting burglar alarms and home surveillance systems?


For the home security companies that pass this stage, research their current security system installers' status by contacting agencies like the Better Business Bureau, Diamond Certified, and California State licensing agencies.

Arrange for visits from different home alarm system company representatives. These meetings should yield a written quote for home security systems, burglar alarms and video surveillance equipment.

Compare your quotes and hire the optimal San Mateo County home security installer and home alarm company. Ensure that your hired security company provides you with a written and signed contract that details pricing, warranty agreements and operation instructions.

 

 

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 Alarm Companies

AHA American Homeowners Association (www.ahahome.com)
ANSI American National Standards Institute (www.ansi.org)
BBB Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.com)
CAA California Alarm Association (www.caaonline.org)
CSLB Contractor State License Board (www.cslb.ca.gov)
CSAA Central Station Alarm Association (www.csaaul.org)
DCA State of California Department of Consumer Services (www.dca.ca.gov)
EBAA East Bay Alarm Association (www.ebaaonline.org)
NASCO National Association of Security Companies (www.www.nasco.org)
NBFAA National Burglar Alarm Association (www.alarm.org)
NICET National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (www.nicet.org)
NSA National Sheriff's Association (www.sheriffs.org)
SIA Security Industry Association (www.siaonline.org)
SIAC Security Industry Alarm Coalition (www.siacinc.org)

 

 

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

Access Control & Security Systems Magazine
Call Center 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
www.accentalarms.com/forum/default.asp
www.alarmsystemreviews.com
www.crimedoctor.com
www.diyalarmforum.com
www.ehow.com

 


The Prime Buyer's Report provides information on the TOP 10 Home Security Systems and burglar alarm companies 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

 

 

 

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