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April 1, 2014
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4 Things To Be Aware Of With ADT Security

ADT Security is the largest home security company in the world. Their brand is known by everyone and financially they have a massive company. Even though you see ADT lawn signs everywhere, do they really offer the best value? No they don't. And with that said, here are 4 things to watch out for with ADT Security.

1. They Use Dealers

Remember that sales person that knocked on your door saying he was with ADT? Well, there's a good chance he's not really. Not all employees with ADT Security are full time, a large percentage of them are part of their dealer network. What that means is they find new business for ADT, and then the dealers sell the contracts to ADT corporate. This is an issue for customers because dealers can make claims they don't have to live up to, since once the service begins, they are no longer part of the relationship with the customer. The customer will never interact with the dealer after the installation.

There have been many instances where dealers from various security companies have been targeted by various state Attorney General offices for making misleading claims or false sales practices. Always deal directly with the parent company, or better yet avoid any company that has a dealer program to ensure you're getting the best security at the best value (without any risk of false promises or inferior service).

2. The Have A 3-Year Contract

ADT makes all customers sign a 3-year contract, regardless of the services they are getting. They claim this is an "industry standard", however, a growing number of security companies are offering security services without requiring the customer to sign a contract.

Beware of any company that makes you sign a contract when getting their services. A contract locks you in, even if you're unhappy with the service you're receiving. A company that provides security services without making you sign a contract will ultimately provide better service since they know you have more options and can cancel anytime.

3. ADT Will Raise Your Monitoring Rates

ADT has a clause in their contract that gives them the right to raise your monitoring rates at any time during the contract. So not only are you stuck in a contract, you'll be obligated to pay more for the services your receiving. The services won't be changing or getting better, but suddenly you're paying more. Doesn't make sense, does it?

Avoid any company that will raise your monitoring rates. Any company that doesn't have to sign a contract for service, legally can't raise your rates, and if they do notify you telling you they plan on raising them, you can cancel at any time.

4. ADT Charges High Rates For Standard Services

With ADT, the rates for standard monitoring is around $32/month and two-way voice is around $39/month. These services at other companies range between $10-25/month for standard monitoring and $16-$32/month for two-way voice. ADT is offering anything unique, so why are they charging a premium? The answer is two-fold: because of the brand and because of the rebound effect if they were to lower their prices (current customers would demand to match the lower prices, and their infrastructure wouldn't be able to handle the reduced rates and ultimately the company would crash).

Don't pay more for the same service. Find a reputable company with lower rates, no contract, and no dealer program.