A Home Video Security System

A video security system will safeguard your family. These systems help to prevent burglar break-ins, deter vandalism, and give you a record of what happens at your home while you're away.

A good video security system will give you several benefits:

You can identify visitors

Have records that will prevent undue insurance claims

Check on children and monitor babysitter behavior

Prevent theft

Qualify for discounts on home insurance premiums

As far as what's included, you can get many, many options, but the basic system consists of 1 or more cameras connected directly to monitors, and a recorder to store the videos. Some common options include motion detectors and remote access to the system.

More innovative digital products and system concepts center on "intelligent" video analysis and sensor fusion. Okay - I don't think we're going down that road. It would be easier learning Greek.

If you think you might want this type of surveillance system, there are a few questions you should ask yourself.

1. What is it you want to monitor? Do you want to see who comes and goes; how about vehicles passing by? Do you want to see faces?

2. Which benefit are you most interested in? Is the purpose for the added security to deter potential crimes, or to catch the perpetrators? If you want to prevent an event, put the camera where they will see it. If you want to catch them in the act, hide the camera.

3. Do you need a good quality picture? Systems that give very detailed images will cost more than the basic unit.

You should be aware that these systems are generally internal - meaning they are totally contained in your home or office. They do not sound an alarm or alert a central monitoring facility. It's best to add a video security system to (or combine it with) an alarm system.

If you want to pursue getting more information from local contractors, I recommend these 2 sources. Having several dealers competing for your business can only help you find the system you want at a good price.

Find thousands of unbiased ratings on service contractors, and more. Try Angie’s List.

When you think you will be doing a major renovation in your house, get a copy of How To Control Your Remodeling Project. It will save you time and money.

If you have a question, or just want to think your project through with me, contact me about your video security system by clicking here.

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For contractor ratings, and prices from local contractors, Try Angie’s List.