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Who to Hire to Install Your Home Security System
A home security professional installs wired systems, while simple wireless kits can be DIY
andresr/E+ via Getty Images
andresr/E+ via Getty Images
Highlights
Hiring a home security professional ensures the correct, safe installation of sensitive electrical components and system wiring.
The average cost to have a security system installed is $750, with wireless kits starting at $200, plus monitoring fees.
Costs vary by system type (wired vs. wireless), number of components, home layout, added features, and maintenance needs.
A pro tailors placement and monitoring to your home and neighborhood, and may provide ongoing maintenance that extends system life.
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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
If you are wondering who to hire to install a home security system, opt for a home security professional for wired setups, and consider a DIY approach only for simple wireless kits. Pros handle sensitive electrical work and ladder tasks safely, customize placement for your property and neighborhood, and often provide maintenance to keep the system running longer.
Benefits of Hiring a Home Security Professional for Security System Installation
Hiring a home security professional ensures a proper, safe installation the first time. A pro designs a tailored plan based on your home layout and neighborhood needs, then places and connects components for reliable performance. You also avoid tool purchases and hazardous ladder or electrical work. Many pros offer ongoing maintenance, helping extend system life and protect your investment.
When hiring a local home security pro, you can expect:
Correct wiring to avoid fire hazards
Strategic camera and component placement
Local expertise to match neighborhood risks
No tool buying or rentals required
Safe ladder and roof work experience
Guidance on monitoring via DVR or smartphone
Clean cable runs and unobtrusive routing
System tested and fully operational before handoff
Potential ongoing maintenance and support
Can I Hire a Handyperson for Home Security System Installation?
Some handypersons can install a home security system, depending on their experience with wiring and electronics. For a robust, wired system, hire a dedicated home security professional for safety and reliability. A handyperson may not offer ongoing maintenance, unlike many security pros.
Choose a handyperson only for simpler scopes and confirm their wiring experience in advance. If you want extra peace of mind, consider hiring a home security professional near you to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
How Do Home Security Professionals Install Security Systems?
Pros start by assessing your home’s layout and planning unobtrusive routes for wiring and components. Then they follow a clear sequence to get your system running reliably:
Create a plan for camera, light, and component locations, and select a monitoring method
Mount cameras and connect them to the DVR
Install cameras and connect them to a power source
Connect the DVR to a monitor or configure smartphone access
Add motion-sensor lighting or other security components as requested
How Much Does Home Security System Installation Cost?
The average cost to install a security system is $750. Wireless systems can start at as little as $200, plus monthly monitoring fees, and DIY wireless installs mainly cost the system itself. Your final price depends on whether you use a wired or wireless setup, the number of cameras, any added lighting or components, your home’s layout, and any ongoing maintenance arrangements.
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