How much does a Home Security Alarm System cost?

Installing a home alarm system is one of the best things that you can do to protect your family and belongings. Today, there are many different types of systems available from simple to sophisticated. Home alarm systems prices vary according to the kind of system, size of the system and the technology involved, but prices generally range from $300 to $4,000 in Australia.

Home Security Costs in Australia

The following prices reflect the cost for the installation of a hardwired system for an average of 130 square metre home. It reflects the most basic equipment and average installation time needed.

House alarm prices differ according to the system you choose, the number of areas that need protecting, and other factors about your property and contents. The following considerations affect the cost and type of system that you need to have installed:

• Areas of the house that need equipment installed
• If you need to hire a locksmith to check your locks
• If you have a fence
• Any outdoor buildings that need protecting
• Size of your home and property
• Types and number of outdoor installations required
• Types and number of indoor installations needed

Now, you can choose either a hardwired or wireless system for your home. Both types of systems have advantages and disadvantages associated with them. Here is a summary of the pros and cons of each type of system.

Several factors affect the cost of the home security system from the type of system you choose to the insurance you currently have for your home.

Type of Security System – A range of different systems is available. You can choose simple window alarms or a whole house system that integrates into a smart home system. This choice will play the most significant role in determining the cost of the entire system.

The Complexity of the Job – Even if you choose a lower-cost system, the task can still be expensive, depending on its complexity. For instance, if you have a house with a large number of downstairs windows, it will be more costly than if you only have a few potential entrances to secure. Security camera installation cost can differ according to how far the wires have to be run and the type of materials used for the walls.

Home and Contents Insurance – Insurance for the home and contents can also affect the cost of the system. The good news is that most of the time, installing a security system can mean savings on insurance, which can often help to mitigate the initial cost of the system.

Advances in Technology – Advances in technology mean that there are many more choices available, but some of the more high-tech options are also more expensive. For instance, CCTV installation cost depends on compatibility with existing computer systems and the resolution that you choose. There are also automatic timers and features that can affect the value of the technology.

Hidden Activation Fees – Make sure to check when you are calling for estimates is to find out if there are any activation fees associated with the installation of the system. Some companies do not tell you this upfront, so be sure to ask.

Close up of an outdoor security camera. | Source: Ausecom Technology Pty Ltd

Control Panel Installation and Activation – Control panel installation activation can range from $700 to $1,900. Monitoring averages around $15 to $60 per month. Some companies have different fees that they include with the installation, such as activation or an ongoing maintenance plan. Make sure that you find out of these when you call for an estimate.

Home Security and CCTV Surveillance Equipment – The type of camera that you choose will affect the CCTV camera installation price. An average cost for a low-end system is around $250, which does not include installation. These often cost an additional $30 per month for surveillance.

Motion Sensors and Detectors – Motion detectors cost between $30 and $50 each, not including installation.

Key Fobs – Key fobs are pocket-sized hardware that can be attached to your key ring. If you need to get an extra key fob for your security system, it will probably cost around $25 for each one.

Door and Window Sensors – Door and window sensors cost between $15 and $60 each, depending on the type that you get and whether it is wireless or hardwired.

Lighting – Lighting for the average home cost between $15 and $80 per light, but they can run upwards of thousands for more complicated security lighting systems.

Security Screens and Doors – Security door installation cost differs according to the type of door, size of the door, and the material surrounding the installation. On average, the price is around $600 for the low end of the spectrum and approximately $1,400. These estimates do not include installation or locks.

Locks – Locks can range in price from $15 to upwards of $330.

Alarms – You can install alarms such as fire, smoke, C02 and burglar alarms. Smoke alarm cost varies depending on the type of alarm and how many are needed throughout the house. In general, the individual units cost $30 to $50 apiece, excluding installation.

Hardwired Systems – The insulation of a hardwired system can vary depending on how many holes need to be drilled and how far the wires need to be run from the main control panel. They are typically more expensive to install with the average cost between $800 and $1,600 for home security camera installation.

Other Smart Home Security Options – There are currently many smart home options available. For instance, you can have Smart lights that are linked to a camera or your home computer for monitoring. You can also get mobile apps that will allow you to monitor your home while you are away.

Before you go online and get quotes, use the following tips to get the most accurate estimate:

Tip #1 – Know the size of your home and the number of doors and windows that you need to secure.

Tip #2 – Know the size of your property and any outbuildings or fences that need to be secured.

Tip #3 – Check on your home insurance policy as you may be able to get a discount on the installation.

When you have a security system installed, you will be allowing a stranger into your home, and access to parts of your home where you store valuables. You want to make sure that the person you hire is reliable and safe to be around your family. Here are a few tips and suggestions to help you hire a professional who can get the job done right and who you can be assured is safe.

Certifications and licenses are necessary! – Licensing and certification requirements differ from state to state. Make sure that the professional you hire has proper licensure and certifications to work in your area. Don’t just take their word for it; check on them yourself.

Have Insurance – Make sure that the professional you hire is bonded and insured. This means that they have at least undergone a minimal background check.

Get References – Have the intended contractor provide you with references for people they have worked with before. Be sure that you can contact them by telephone. Contacting past customers can clarify if the business’s online quotes are accurate.

Finally, there are a few tips to help you save some money when hiring home surveillance installers.

Tip #1 – Make sure that you check the contract and read it thoroughly. Double-check that there are no hidden fees or terms that are in the fine print.

Tip #2 – Call around and get quotes from different companies. When you do, make sure that they are quoting for the same type of installation and equipment.

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources