Protecting Your Home
Top tips for choosing the right security company. Crime is a pressing concern in South Africa, and securing your home adequately is crucial. A robust security system, backed up by reliable response and maintenance teams, is a strong deterrent against criminal activity. It reduces the likelihood of break-ins, theft, and violent crime, giving you greater peace of mind in the face of the following alarming crime statistics: Housebreaking – a burglary that takes place when residents are away from home – is the most common crime experienced by households in South Africa, according to Stats SA. An estimated 1.6 million housebreaking incidents occurred during 2022/23. Home robbery – or home invasion – is regarded as a violent crime, as it takes place when people are in the house. This is the second most common crime experienced by South African households. An estimated 238,000 incidents occurred in 2022/23, according to Stats SA. An estimated 1,520,000 incidents of theft of personal property occurred in 2022/23. Many security companies offer a variety of services, so it can be daunting to choose a suitable company that meets your needs. This decision is not just about finding a service provider – it’s about ensuring your family is safe, and protecting your most valuable assets. It’s essential to make an informed choice, weighing costs against system and service quality. Assess your security needs Before approaching any security company, start by evaluating your home’s security requirements. Consider factors such as: Location: Areas with higher crime rates usually need more robust security solutions. Property size and layout: Larger properties may require more extensive coverage, including additional perimeter security. Existing security measures: Assess whether current measures, such as alarm systems or electric fencing, need upgrading or augmenting. Research security companies Once you have a clear understanding of your needs, start researching security companies. Keep these points in mind: Reputation: Look for companies with a proven track record in your area. Online reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and neighbours are invaluable. Accreditation: Ensure that the company is registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA). Range of services: Compare services, including armed response, monitoring, and tech integration (such as CCTV and smart home systems). Understand the costs Security is an investment, but balancing cost with value is crucial. Ask for detailed quotes from several companies, including the following: Installation costs: Some companies charge upfront for equipment and set-up. Others offer ‘free’ security installations when you sign a contract for their monitoring or armed response services, with costs incurred later for equipment, monthly fees, and penalties for early contract termination. Monthly fees: Costs for monitoring and armed response vary. Clarify what these fees cover, and check for discounts. Some companies offer reduced fees for senior citizens, and if you are a body corporate member, you can negotiate a discount for the residential complex. Additional charges: Be aware of charges for excessive false alarms, and extra services such as maintenance. Evaluate technology and equipment AI is enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and responsiveness of home security systems. It enables smart integration with other home devices, supports facial recognition – distinguishing between family members (and pets) and potential intruders – and incorporates automated responses such as locking doors, triggering alarms, and alerting authorities when a threat is detected. When choosing such a system, enquire about: Equipment quality: High-quality cameras, motion sensors, smart doorbells, and locks are generally more reliable and durable in the long term. Ease of use: The interface should be user-friendly and easy to manage. Data privacy: Ensure that the system has robust data encryption and privacy policies. Accuracy: Look for reliable threat detection and low false alarm rates. Integration: Confirm compatibility with existing smart home devices. Updates: The system should allow software updates for improved functionality. Review contracts carefully Security contracts often come with various terms and conditions. Before signing, pay attention to: Contract length: Some companies lock you into long-term contracts with penalties for early termination. Service level agreements: These outline the response time, maintenance schedules, and other critical services. Ensure that they meet your expectations. Cancellation policy: Understand the terms for contract cancellation or changes, to avoid unexpected costs. Build a strong relationship Choosing the right company is just the beginning. Managing the relationship well helps ensure that you get the best service from your security provider. Be sure to: Communicate regularly: Stay in touch with the company, and read their updates on security trends and potential threats in your area. Conduct system maintenance: Ensure that your security system is maintained and tested regularly to avoid failures during emergencies. Report issues timeously: Provide feedback on the service received, and report any issues immediately. Follow up on such feedback and reports in writing. Check customer support Reliable support is essential for troubleshooting and updates. The following is recommended: Backup power: Ensure that the company provides power solutions to keep your home secure during load shedding or power outages. Advances and upgrades: Security needs evolve, so stay informed about new technologies and potential upgrades. Records and reporting: Keep records of all incidents and service shortcomings, and contact your security company’s support team with specific details of any concerns. Arrange a meeting with a representative to discuss your dissatisfaction directly, and suggest improvements. Escalation: If your issue remains unresolved, escalate the problem to management or a regulatory body like PSiRA. If problems persist, consider other security companies. Your family’s safety is too important to take chances. Do your homework, and choose an appropriate system for your needs, so that you can enjoy your home without constant worry. Written By Sarah Nicholson Sarah Nicholson is an operations manager. While every reasonable effort is taken to ensure the accuracy and soundness of the contents of this publication, neither the writers of articles nor the publisher will bear any responsibility for the consequences of any actions based on information or recommendations contained herein. Our material is for informational purposes.