Your eyes and ears while you're away

Yes, many insurance agencies offer a discount on homeowners insurance when you have proof of an installed and monitored security system. Check with your insurance agent for the amount of the discount.  Generally, the discount can be a 10-15% savings.

It will NOT work, unless you have a cellular radio backup device. These can be purchased through your dealer and require a small radio transmitter to be added to the control panel of your alarm.

The burglar alarm industry is forever changing!  An educated buyer knows that a custom alarm system is what will give them the best protection for their belongings and more importantly their family.  Don't be fooled by the "FREE" alarm system.  You are getting minimal coverage at a high cost and high risk of your safety.  Be careful of being locked into a monitoring contract for more than one year intervals.  Also be cautious of the auto-renew policy.

There is a law that went into effect in CT called the Evergreen Law.  It states that your alarm company must notify you of the auto renewal in writing 60 days prior to the expiration of the date on the originally signed contract.  This gives the customer enough time to respond and cancel/change/renew the contract without any penalties.  However, if they do not, and the contract expired, you are not obligated to continue the service with the original contracted alarm company.

A "UL Listed" central station is a common way to refer to an alarm monitoring facility that has demonstrated the ability to provide standards complying service.  In the case of monitoring stations, UL requirements cover building structure, receiving and monitoring equipment, and staffing issues; in addition to installation and ongoing service. In order to be able to provide standard compliance service, the building, equipment and staffing requirements have to be met at all times.  However, the handling of specific signals, from specific alarms systems is only audited by UL if certificate is in affect for that alarm system. 

Technology has brought wireless security devices a long way.  They are a popular choice and offer flexibility to an installer for overcoming obstacles like cement floors, cathedral ceilings, etc and require less time to  install and less "holes".  The disadvantage would be the likelihood of false alarms or interference with other devices that use similar or same radio frequencies within your home.  It is personal preference on the part of the installer.  However, overall the performance is as good as the "hard wired" security devices.