A home security system can help keep your home or business (and your state of mind) secure. According to the FBI, one burglary occurs every 12 seconds in the United States.

Statistics show that homes and businesses without security systems are significantly more likely to experience a break-in - 200% to 350% more likely than homes and businesses protected by security systems like HomeGuard. (Study by Temple University, 1997).

Monitored fire detection systems can help to increase your life safety and increase the overall prtection of your property while you are not at home. A monitored system can allow for more timely fire department response to a house fire by potentially detecting a fire in its earlier stages. Without monitoring services, you rely on an observer to recognize a fire condition and call the authorities if you are not at home. House fires are often not visible from the outside until the fire has had a chance to progress and become more established -- and destructive. Timely response from the fire department can help to minimize the loss of life, property, pets and other irreplaceable things.

Many insurance companies recognize the benefit of monitored security and fire protection systems by offering discounts of up to 20 percent off homeowner's insurance premiums. Ask your agent about your policy.

There are a variety of home security systems on the market today. As people's lifestyle and convenience needs become more complex, a security system must adapt to those needs. It is equally important to evaluate the company you select to monitor and maintain your system. Your security system purchase is the first step to establishing a long-term service relationship. Be sure you choose a company you can trust. Consider these factors when selecting a security system and security company.

Ask how long the company has been in business

HomeGuard™ has installed and monitored thousands of high quality wireless security systems in the Puget Sound area since 1984.

Ask if you will own or lease/rent your system

You will own your HomeGuard system.

Ask how much a system will cost

HomeGuard offers a wide variety of systems and components to ensure that we are able to address the different needs of our customers and the amount they wish to spend. Our systems range in price and complexity. A basic system, including monitoring service and warranty can be purchased with no up-front fees, starting at about $1 a day. Call for details. Most customers choose to use the monitoring service for several years, so make sure to evaluate the long term costs associated with monitoring service and warranty coverage.

Ask about the differences between a wireless and hard wired system

HomeGuard systems are typically wireless, enabling fast, clean installations with the least disruption to the building's interior. HomeGuard installs reliable, high quality wireless components manufactured by G.E. Interlogics, one of the leading security technology companies in the United States.

Determine what level of security you anticipate needing

Think about all points of access into your home and particular areas you want to secure. Ask yourself whether property protection or personal safety is your primary motivation for purchasing a security system.

Ask if the system can be modified to adapt to changing needs once installed

HomeGuard systems are flexibly designed using wireless components. The configuration and equipment you select can be changed to better suit changes in your lifestyle.

Ask if you can take your system with you if you move

If you are moving to a new location in our service territory you can take your system with you and we will reinstall it for free in most cases with continued monitoring service. As you own your equipment, you also are welcome to move with it outside the western Washington area, or you can sell it with your home as a valuable amenity.

Ask who installs and services the equipment

HomeGuard installs and provides maintenance and repair service to all of the security equipment it sells.

Ask about your options with regard to choosing your monitoring term, renewals for monitoring and cancellation procedures

With HomeGuard, you can choose your initial service term, and guarantee your monitoring rate, including warranty coverage. It is your option, choose from 12 to 60 months. Once your monitoring commitment term has been reached, your monitoring service commitment is renewed on a month-by-month basis. Cancellation is requested in writing and may be verified to ensure the safety of the security system owner.