Editor’s note: This post was originally published in November 2016 and has been updated for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.

The housing market is booming.

The need to work remotely and spend more time at home has increased the demand for larger living spaces. Additionally, more Americans are buying or refinancing their homes because of the current low interest rates on mortgages.

This could also be the reason why the DIY industry is gaining momentum. The home security systems market alone ‘was valued at USD 53.6 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 78.9 billion by 2025.’

Instead of slowing down during the pandemic, it is reported that homeowners ‘have continued to spend money on home improvements’ while paying special attention to DIY alarm systems.

A DIY alarm system might seem like an attractive option. But, how can you decide if it’s a good alternative for your property?

It really depends on your security needs and how tech-savvy you are.

When you first visit a DIY company website, you might notice that they place most of their attention in the buying process. This is because they aren’t required to obtain a license for installations. In a sense, they are like many other companies that only sell you a product.

This doesn’t necessarily mean bad business. However, it does mean that the company you choose has to be transparent and have a solid foundation. Not all security companies abide by the same values and some advertising of DIY alarm systems can be misleading.

But before you jump into reading reviews and comparing products, the following tips can help you decide if a DIY system is a good fit for you and your home.

Where does a DIY Alarm System perform best?

A DIY alarm system works best for small spaces like apartments or flats. An apartment usually has less doors and windows to secure, therefore, you will likely also need less motion sensors.

A second reason is that most wireless systems have to be within a certain distance of their wireless network. This is not difficult in small spaces but becomes more complicated in a multi-level building.

The Pros of Purchasing a DIY Alarm System

Installation is economical.

A professional installation tends to cost more. This is because of the high quality of the system and the personalized service you’ll receive if you hire a full-service company. This is why one of the main appeals of a DIY alarm system is that if you install it yourself, you’ll save big bucks.

This choice will not only give you the advantage of getting your system sooner but you’ll be saving on initial costs. Nonetheless, it’s recommended to first research the DIY company of your preference to make sure it is well-established. This is important because a DIY system allows you to add other products in the future so you don’t have to buy it all at once.

For example, if you first want to buy an alarm system and a year later a video doorbell, you’ll be able to integrate both systems as long as you buy them from the same company.

It’s also important to ask about the equipment’s warranty and return policy. Since not all DIY alarm systems are good quality, a good return policy can protect you if the system doesn’t work well or it isn’t what you expected. Only because the system fits your budget, it doesn’t mean it will also fit your needs.

Take your DIY Alarm System Wherever you go

If you are tech-savvy, it will not be difficult to uninstall your DIY System. If you rent your apartment or move often, this might be a good option for you. The ability to take the system wherever you go will not only be convenient but installation costs will again not apply as you will re-install the system yourself.

You’ll be Free from Annual Contracts

Most professional security companies require that you sign a 1 or 2 year contract of alarm monitoring services. This means that as soon as your alarm is installed, it will be monitored by a central station. In case of an emergency, the monitoring station will call you to verify if they need to alert the authorities.

In contrast, with a DIY alarm, you’ll have the task of self-monitor your security system.  This means that your alarm system will not be monitored by a central station and when the alarm is activated, it’ll be up to you to alert the authorities. You’ll also be free from a monthly monitoring fee and responsible for any repairs the system will require in the future.

The Cons of Purchasing a DIY Alarm System  

DIY Installations Can Be frustrating

Some DIY companies don’t even include information about the installation process in their websites. They focus on describing the system’s features and having images of people using their systems.

Before you start adding items to your cart, it’s reasonable to want to know if a company has a support team. If questions about the installation arise, you’ll need someone to guide you through the process. You should also ask about the options you’ll have if and when the system malfunctions.

For example, Park’s Associates’ Senior analyst Dina Abdelrazik, told Security Systems News  that “From our data, on average, consumers spend 4 hours or more installing their DIY security system in the home – that is a very long time,”.

Are you willing to spend 4 hours or more installing your system? Have in mind that this time only accounts for installation. Additional hours of your time will be required to self-monitor and repair your system.

This is one of the main reasons why if you are not tech-savvy, its best to stay away from DIY alarm systems.

The post Pros and Cons of a DIY Alarm System appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Occasionally, our clients notify us about phone calls they’ve received from a scam artist claiming to be computer techs associated with VinTech. These scammers say that they’ve detected viruses or other malware on their computer to trick them into giving them remote access or paying for software they don’t need.  But the purpose behind their scheme isn’t to protect your computer; it’s to make money.  VinTech does not make unsolicited phone calls to request personal or financial information, or to fix your computer.  Treat all unsolicited phone calls with skepticism and don’t give any personal information.

To look at the magnitude of the problem, we want to share a statement from an e-mail we recently received from ComEd. This well-known electricity provider sent this e-mail to their clients warning them of scams. The statement read:

“Watch out for scams. For your protection, never provide your social security or personal information to anyone you are not familiar with over the phone, never send money to another entity other than ComEd, and never pay using a payment account provided to you by an unknown individual”. 

This well-known company is over 100 years old, yet scam artists use its name to steal client’s confidential information.

With these helpful tips, not only can you avoid telephone rip-offs but doorstep cons as well.

Death of Sales Man

If a sales person knocks and you feel uncomfortable opening your door, simply do not open it. This is perfectly acceptable and expected since you did not inquire about their service. If you do open the door, don’t allow them inside you home. Are they being pushy?  Be very cautious, this is a tactic to survey your valuable possessions and return later to steal them.

Who is this?

Authenticate the person calling or knocking your door. Ask for their full name and credentials. Additionally, confirm the company they represent. Never heard of it? Can’t find it online? It’s likely it doesn’t exist.

Protect your identity

Never provide personal information over the phone. Ask the caller to have your merchant call you directly. Let them know you prefer to speak with a familiar employee.

Is this a reputable source?

Conduct a quick search on the company with the Better Business Bureau. This trusted source will help you determine if the business is legitimate. They provide a detailed business report including verification of credentials.

Contact your service company

Call the company to verify they sent this person to your home. It is uncommon for businesses to send an employee without contacting you first. Don’t be fooled by a uniform. A scam artist can wear it to look trustworthy.

Choose a local company

Its best to hire a company that has their own employees. Some large security companies subcontract their work. Third party sources are more difficult to verify. Should you really trust them?

Contracts

Do not allow the sales person to pressure you. If they insist on you signing a contract, tell them you prefer to review the contract before signing.

All your service providers should be trustworthy but you must be especially careful when choosing a security provider. Having a home security system can give you peace of mind but only when you trust the people who are managing it.

The post 9 Tips that Tackle Every Scam Artist appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The TLP is in need of toiletries, winter clothing, and bedding and school supplies. Please donate new unopened items only. Anything helps! For a complete list of what items are eligible, please visit this Donation List or give us a call at 773-388-1208. We are also available via email at info@vintechnology.net. To make a donation, please drop by our office or mail the items to VinTech Systems at 1836 W. Belmont, Chicago, IL 60657.

We will be taking donations until December 15th. 

On behalf of Teen Living Programs and VinTech Systems, we thank you in advance for your goodwill this holiday season.

The post Accepting Donations for Teen Living Programs appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Seven safety steps for safe Black Friday shopping:

1. Arm your alarm systems before leaving your home and at night.
2. Place adequate lighting outside your home or apartment.
3. Shop with a friend. Its fun and safer.
4. Buy insurance on expensive electronics.
5. Keep a watchful eye on your shopping bags.
6. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use a credit card to pay if possible.
7. Be discreet when disposing items’ boxes.

We hope you find something special this upcoming holiday sale. We are already making our list. Please visit our Facebook page and let us know of any other safety tips you take before, during, and after shopping. Happy Black Friday 2010!

If you would like to read more safety tips, visit our blog 5 steps to Stop Holiday Package Theft. During the holidays, package theft increases as more people make last minute online purchases.

The post Let the Games Begin – Black Friday 2010 appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The frightening facts:

1. The lock bumping technique can be used to open 90% of American homes. This is because most homes use an old-style cylinder lock. Additionally, when a lock bumping key is used to break in, there is no sign of a forced entry or damage to the lock. This lack of evidence makes insurance companies very leery about paying for the claim. Furthermore, you could lose everything and not get compensated.
2. Anyone can make bump keys in 5 minutes or less. Hence, children as young as ten have been caught.
3. Safety experts say it’s time to change. Additionally, they are clear about this new digital home security threat. Its time to update your home protection!

Click here to watch a demonstration of this technique.

What can you do to protect your home?

Update your locks  to a high security residential deadbolt.

Features and Benefits

1. A bolt mechanism accommodates both mortise and drive-in applications. This design provides greater flexibility and ease of installation.
2. Steel shroud protects against “ice pick” type attacks. Avoid other items. Additionally, use high security strike plates. They have a special box design with 2 screws that anchor the strike directly to the building structure behind the frame. Furthermore, these will prevent kick-in type attacks.
3. A hardened steel bolt is surrounded by a heavy-gauge tubular steel so it houses maximum resistance to crowbar attacks.
4. A solid brass design is secured with high-tensile steel mounting bolts. Therefore, it has maximum resistance against hammer and prying attacks.
5. Elevate and rotate pin tumbler design. It has false slots on the bottom pins, mushroom top pins, and a sidebar mechanism together provide superior pick resistance.

Take action now! Protect your home from the lock bumping attack its easy and relatively inexpensive.

Learn more at www.lockbumping.com

The post Why You Should Be Aware of Lock Bumping appeared first on VinTech Systems.