Monitored Security vs. Home Surveillance: Advantages of Each

Although they sound similar, monitored security and home surveillance are not the same thing. In our last article, we discussed the differences between the two smart security methods.

Essentially, monitored security means that a remote monitoring agent will be notified when alarms or sensors go off on your property. They’ll try to call you, and if you can’t be reached, they will inform the authorities. Alternatively, a surveillance system doesn’t include any monitoring, but instead a network of security cameras you check yourself.

Is there a time when one solution is appropriate over the other? We’ll share the advantages of both monitored security and a home surveillance system so you can learn which is best to protect your Davenport, IA, home.

SEE ALSO: What to Know About Home Security and Surveillance

Advantages of Monitored Security

Monitored security, which alerts a monitoring agent when an alarm is triggered, is a hands-off way to ensure your property is protected. Even if you’re far away and not near your phone, if a burglary, fire, flood, or gas leak occurs, the monitoring agent will contact 911. The situation is handled entirely without your involvement, so you never have to worry about anything slipping through the cracks.

Monitored security is advantageous for your extra peace of mind, as your security system will catch everything. If you own more than one house or business and don’t like to be tied to your smartphone, monitored security is the best solution.

Advantages of Home Surveillance

One downside to monitored security is the extra cost. If you’re looking to invest less, a home surveillance system requires you to check camera footage yourself, eliminating a monitoring subscription fee.

Home surveillance is helpful for checking on the kids when they’re home alone or seeing if a package made it safely to your porch. It can be difficult to stay on top of mobile alerts as they come in, but a surveillance system is definitely safer than no system at all.  

Deciding Between the Two

If you don’t want to worry or even think about your security system, monitored security is the superior choice for your home. But if you don’t mind checking cameras yourself and managing alerts, then home surveillance will do fine for your Iowa home. You can always use both, with remotely accessible camera footage and alerts that notify an agent first.

Want to learn more about smart home security? Read more about cameras, motion sensors, and mobile alerts in our blog here. And if you’re looking for security solutions in Iowa, contact Reference Audio Video & Security.