Every year homeowners and renters alike across the country are victimised in their own homes. The Australian Bureau of Statistics places the victimisation rate at 9.4%, with 171,600 households experiencing a break-in in 2021 and an additional 179,400 experiencing an attempted break-in. There is little wonder why more people are looking to invest in home security systems to keep their homes safe.

What is home security?

Do you need clarification on exactly what home security is? Home security is your first line of defence against criminals targeting your home and consists of one or more of the following devices;

• Locks on windows and doors

• Alarms

• Motion sensors

• Security cameras

• Motion lighting or flood lighting

• Warning stickers on visible areas

Monitored vs unmonitored home security systems

Now that you know more about the type of home security products available, you need to consider if you want a monitored or unmonitored security system. There are benefits to both, and the decision lies in what you need for your installation to feel safe at home.

A monitored home security system is when a third-party company monitors your home via the security system. It means you do not have to worry about acting on any alerts personally; they will do it for you if required.

An unmonitored home security system is simply a home security setup you have installed or installed yourself and then monitored personally. Any alters or people triggering the alarm need to be handled by yourself. A good example is using a video doorbell or having an alarm manually set when you leave your home, and an alarm sounds when someone without the code enters.

Benefits of a home security system

Let's take a look at the benefits of a home security system.

• Added safety

Did you know your home is more likely to be broken into if you do not have visible home security? The threat of being identified or people alerted via your home security system will likely deter burglars and give you added safety whether you are home or not. Many police forces across the country agree that adding home security products to your home increases safety from burglaries.

• Crime deterrent

As mentioned above, criminals often work under cover of anonymity. They do not want to get caught for their crimes. If your home is secured using a monitored home security system and you have warning signs up, this will automatically deter individuals with nefarious intent. For example, video doorbells can help identify potential criminals for increased deterrents around your home or suburb.

• Peace of mind

No one wants to experience a home break-in. Whether you have been the victim of a home break-in in the past or not, a security system can give you peace of mind that you are safer in your home and your home is protected when you are away from it.

• Reduced home insurance premiums

Many home insurance providers reward those who protect their homes using security systems and additional deterrents. These rewards can come as discounts, added benefits or reduced insurance premiums. For homeowners actively taking steps to protect their property from criminals using locks, cameras, and monitored home systems, insurance companies may reward this by lowering your premiums as you reduce the risk of break-ins.

There are many benefits to adding a home security system to protect your home and belongings as well as your family. These days, there are many ways you can protect your home; from purchasing off-the-shelf DIY camera systems to buying a professionally monitored home setup, you can be sure to find the right security setup and protect your home. Considering a security system? Talk to an experienced electrical installer.