Keeping your home safe is essential, but some security measures may be costing you more than you know. Peace of mind is priceless, but not every upgrade delivers the return you expect. After all, you shouldn’t feel financially stressed in a well protected home.
It’s important to be secure, but it shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. Sometimes, the best balance between safety and savings is with simpler measures. Here are some popular home security enhancements that are likely draining your finances more than protecting them.
Excessive Security Cameras
You can install cameras everywhere and feel like you live in a high tech fortress, but they can be expensive. Cloud storage fees can run hundreds per year beyond installation. Sometimes, a few well placed cameras will give you enough coverage without breaking the bank.
Over-the-Top Alarm Systems
Alarm systems with all the bells and whistles sound great, but many have features you’ll never use. For a fraction of the price, basic monitored systems can often do the job. Moreover, over sensitive setups can generate costly fines for false alarms.
High-End Smart Home Systems
Cutting edge protection is promised by fancy smart home systems, however, they typically come with a hefty upfront cost and recurring subscription. Consumer Reports says that many homeowners spend $1,000 or more on these setups, but simpler (and less expensive) solutions often offer the same level of safety.
Luxury Safe Installations
Most families don’t need the most advanced home safe models, even though a top of the line one may seem like a good investment. If you aren’t storing valuable art or large amounts of cash, a less expensive safe will still do the trick without the financial blow.
Professional Monitoring Services
Professional monitoring is a nice security blanket, but the monthly fee can be steep. If you live in a low crime area or work from home, self monitoring with smart devices may be enough. Overtime, these savings add up.
Custom Security Doors
For many homes, heavy duty security doors can cost thousands and they’re overkill. High quality locks and deadbolts, when reinforced with your existing doors, usually provide enough protection at a fraction of the cost.
Full Perimeter Fencing
An elaborate perimeter fence may make your home feel secure, but it’s mostly for the looks. Security experts say well lit yards and visible cameras are usually better deterrents and much cheaper.
Fingerprint or Biometric Locks
Futuristic sounding biometric locks are often expensive and require maintenance. Traditional deadbolts generally offer enough security without the added expense of smart locks with keypads.
Window Security Films
While these films promise to make windows practically shatterproof, they’re not foolproof. Window locks and sensors of quality often offer the same level of protection for less money. Also, it can be surprisingly expensive to replace the film when damaged.
Guard Dogs
A trained guard dog is an excellent deterrent, but the costs of training, feeding and healthcare add up. Most homes can get by with a good alarm system than a family pet that barks at strangers.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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