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4 min readDIY home security is a great option for minor installations, made even easier if you know your way around a tool belt. But for those who aren’t tool savvy or people after a more comprehensive home security alternative, professional security systems are the way to go.
Like DIY home security, professional security systems can cover security cameras, intercoms, security doors, home safes, and more.
Professional security systems can cover a range of items. The basics include motion-detecting and intrusion alarms (for doors, windows, and driveways), but it’s more common for security cameras and professional monitoring to be included, too. Some companies offer lighting solutions, security screens and doors, as well as locks and safes (including smart locks and safes). Whichever you choose, understand that the more items you add to your professional home security installation, the more you can expect to pay.
Professional security may sound like it’s more intended for businesses than residential, but there are plenty of professional security services offered for homes in Australia. Here are a few of the most popular names (note there are other security companies that only operate in specific states):
These providers offer a range of services. ADT Security offers typical services like 24/7 home alarm system monitoring, and less common services like mobile security patrols and smoke detectors that can be linked to your home alarm system. ADT Security also offers video camera installation, including WiFi cameras, as well as control via the ADT Home Security smartphone app.
Chubb Home Security offers a customisable security system, HD video cameras, as well as automation home upgrades and safe installation. Jim’s Security—yes, as in Jim’s Mowing, but now for security—offers a range of options for home security. Contact Jim’s Security for alarm systems, security cameras, monitored alarms, video intercoms, as well as smart security and home automation.
The cost of professional security systems really is a moving target depending on what you’re after. It can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars for initial costs. If you’re interested in professional monitoring, factor in ongoing subscription costs to cover this.
Based on our research, there’s a trend for professional security companies to encourage people to reach out for a free quote, and prices aren’t explicitly advertised. ADT Security gives an idea of costs with a $499 activation fee. The company has three ADT Secure Home packages, which cost $29.90 a month, $39.90 a month, and $49.90 a month.
If that sounds cheap, it’s because there’s a 36-month cost commitment. This means minimum costs for the three packages are $1,575.40, $1,935.40, and $2,295.40, respectively. While all ADT Security packages include motion detection, smoke detectors, monitoring, wireless installation, a mobile app, and geo services, home automation is included with the pricier plans, plus video monitoring and analytics are part of the most expensive option.
Cameras from ADT Security are cheaper. It costs $9 a month for a single WiFi camera with a $199 activation fee, $11 a month for dual WiFi cameras (and a $399 activation fee), plus $13 a month for quad WiFi cameras (with a $799 activation fee). Despite advertising prices, ADT Security still encourages wannabe users to contact them for a quote.
Jim’s Security also encourages quotes but does advertise some of its fees. It costs anywhere from $695 to $2,290 for security alarms, from $150 to $2,795 for security cameras, and between $599 and $995 for video intercom. The company also offers smart security packages from $10 a month with a $199 upfront fee, to either $29 or $39 a month, both with $499 upfront fees. All three are on 36-month contracts. This takes costs to $599, $1,543, and $1,903, respectively.
According to hipages, the national average cost for home security systems in Australia ranges between $150 and $2,800. Oneflare has a bigger range of prices, starting at $300 and stretching to $4,000. In terms of states, the average cheapest prices start at $550 in New South Wales but go up to $2,900 in Queensland.
The first home security consideration is whether you own or rent your property. If you’re an owner, you can choose between DIY security or a professional service. If you’re a renter, you’re likely limited to DIY security items that can be removed (unless you clear it with your landlord).
Ultimately, the big breakdown is between cost and convenience. DIY security is a lot cheaper and, generally speaking, there are devices designed to be installed without tools or much expert know-how. Professional security costs more but installation is taken care of. This includes options like hardwired systems that require drilling and power connections, as well as optimal placement for maximum security.
The other big main difference is self-monitoring versus professional monitoring. You can have security items installed professionally and not opt for professional monitoring, but it’s up to you to monitor alarms and camera feeds. Professional monitoring outsources the monitoring to dedicated experts and can include 24/7 protection with additional costs.
