Due to the fact that many small business owners aren’t able to afford to leave many of their valuable assets unprotected, many of them decide to install security systems to serve as the first line of defense against any and all potential criminals. These same business owners, however, will need to know all of the right questions prior to putting down any amount of money on both equipment and monitoring.
The features and overall function of an alarm system can vary depending on the type of business that is being protected. A more reputable company will always perform a site survey prior to recommending any kind of alarm system or security equipment.
According to one expert:
“A jewelry store, for example, has different needs than other businesses that do not have the same type of high-value inventory.”
One thing that any small business owner should ask about first is if a security company they’re considering working with is licensed in the same state. Even though there are many companies who have a more centralized monitoring center to assist with coordinating a response whenever an alarm ends up getting triggered, small business owners should still take the opportunity to ask about how the system will actually be connected. Experts state the following:
“You do not want the system connected to your main phone line because that will be the first thing that the criminals cut.”
The alarm system should offer the ability to monitor both entrances and exits, as well as windows and other possible methods for burglars to illegally gain entry to a property. Additionally, alarm systems should have the ability to send information to both the monitoring station and smartphone:
“By sending video immediately to the business owners’ smartphone, he or she can determine if it is really a thief or maybe just an employee who tripped the alarm by mistake, for example.”
Furthermore, access codes should also be asked about, such as if separate codes will be issued to employees for arming and disarming the system. When these codes are assigned, it’s noted by experts that management of passcodes is something that can often be overlooked:
“Business alarm systems should have the ability to assign passcodes and update passcodes in the event of new hires or employee dismissals.”
Business owners should also ask about the overall total costs of the security system itself, including any and all fees for both monitoring and changing passwords:
“Many business owners don’t spend enough time getting a complete understanding of the alarm system costs upfront and can be blindsided by costly add-ons and ongoing maintenance and updates. Find out what any changes to your system will cost. For example, is it going to cost you extra to have passcodes or pass cards updated or changes in the event that an employee is terminated?”
Business Alarm Tips Austin. It’s also important to understand exactly how an alarm trigger is handled. For instance, inquire about what happens if the system is either changed or goes down, who will respond to the alarm, how quick a response is, and more. If you are leasing a property such as a warehouse or office, take the opportunity to speak to building management about alarm installation:
“Discussing your intention to install an alarm system with your landlord or building management company will help you avoid issues or additional charges down the road by finding out any restrictions or requirements from the building owners on what you can and cannot do in terms of your installation and system functions.”