Home alarm systems are generally installed to protect families and help keep their valuables secure. There are alarm companies on Long Island, however, who like to play on a family’s fears and often try to take advantage of unfortunate situations by over selling homeowners. If you are looking for alarm companies on Long Island, here are some tips that can help.
Avoid doing business with door-to-door security alarm sales people. Not many reputable alarm companies on Long Island solicit this way, but there are some alarm companies on Long Island that do. In some cases, the salesperson may invite themselves into the home and virtually refuse to leave without a sale. Do not feel that you must agree to a contract to get rid of them. Tell them to leave and if they don’t — do not hesitate to call the police.
Beware of alarm companies that insist your old alarm company is out of business. If there is actual doubt, call your company to confirm whether they have sold or gone out of business.
Get a written estimate before you sign a contract. It is often helpful to receive three or four written estimates before you choose any of the alarm companies on Long Island. Compare what each company offers for the price and then decide which security alarm system is best for you.
Find out what happens if you have to cancel your contract. Many security companies require you to stay with them for a certain number of years. If you cancel before that time, you may face a hefty cancellation fee. Ask if that fee will still apply if you have to move from the residence before the contract is up.
Read over the entire contract before you sign. Be leery of anyone insisting that you must sign a contract today to take advantage of their special offer.
Know that you can back-out of your contract if you change your mind. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), you have a 3-day cooling off period if you sign the contract in your home or in a location that is not the company’s permanent place of business. The security company must also provide you with a copy of the cancellation form at the time you sign the contract.
If it is one of the alarm companies on Long Island, ask if they are a member of the Metropolitan Burglar and Fire Alarm Association of New York. This membership recognizes if the alarm company is licensed and if their technicians have received extensive training on installing security alarm systems.
