Another Alarm Sales Scam Warning - Tennessee City Denies Door Knocking Alarm Company a Permit to Solicit

Posted by Peter M. Rogers at 12:17 pm 2 Responses »
Jun 282011

Hot on the heels of numerous alerts from all over the US, a Tennessee city has determined that one of the largest “door knocker” alarm companies won’t be allowed to sell home security to the community’s residents. As pervasive as some of these seasonal sales programs have become, there is a growing sense that their sales tactics have gotten too aggressive – as amply indicated by a rising tide of complaints posted with the BBB (Better Business Bureau) and numerous government agencies. This is a timely post, since summer is when these companies are out in force – but they won’t be selling in Oak Ridge, TN.

City Manager Mark S. Watson today said he’s denied some 20 applications for solicitor’s permits submitted by representatives of a company out of Provo, Utah. “They will not be allowed to operate in this town,” Watson said. Read More »

Security in the News

Wireless Home Alarms – Social Media Rules: Facebook is Used to Trigger Police Response

Posted by Peter M. Rogers at 10:00 am 1 Response »
Dec 102010

Imagine buying an alarm system and paying monthly fees, only to find out your alarm company never told you that an alarm permit is required by your local police – and the company failed to register your alarm system. Then you experience a real break in, and because your alarm system has no permit, the police don’t respond! I’ve actually got two stories to share, with both alarm customers understandably upset.   Read More »

Burglars and Crime

Wireless Home Security 101 – Moving an Alarm System with You

Posted by Peter M. Rogers at 10:00 am No Responses »
Oct 142010

Some alarm systems work for a long time: I’ve seen systems still in use that were installed 10 or 15 years ago – even longer. They do have inherent vulnerabilities (like being defeated by a cut phone line), and they don’t offer much compared to today’s next-generation systems (no interactive features, apps, notifications, video, etc.) – which is why folks regularly upgrade these older systems. However, the main reason for most alarm system users to cancel existing service is moving to a new home, because standard alarm systems use “old school” technology, and therefore stay put when you move. At least, it used to be impossible to move a system – but not any more.

I’ve posted before on the trend toward systems that are easily installed by the homeowner, and a significant benefit of that simplicity is the ability to move the system with you and set it up in your new home. After all, you own the equipment (at least you should!), so why not take it with you? The benefits of these newer 100% wireless and “easy-install” system are compelling: Read More »

Alarm Equipment

Alarm Company Compliance – License and Registration, Please…

Posted by Peter M. Rogers at 8:42 pm 1 Response »
Aug 192010

Alarm companies have to be licensed by most states: that is just a fact, and the intent is to protect you, the consumer. Think of licensing as another way to tell the good guys from the bad guys.

Requirements may include fingerprinting, background checks, documented experience in the industry (and a clean complaint record), and even technical proficiency exams. 

There is no federal alarm license that works across the US – that would be too easy! No such luck… alarm company licensing varies by state, by county, and even by city or town – and it’s a serious issue, with big fines and even possible jail time for companies who are serious offenders. Worst of all for home security customers: working with an unlicensed alarm company or having a non-registered alarm system could mean the police or fire department won’t respond to an alarm at your home. Plus, you could be fined as well – that’s why this is such an important topic. Read More »

Wireless Home Security
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