
Home Security Tip 1Install adequate lighting outside every entry way. You can pick up motion sensor activated lights at most department and hardware stores for under $20. 00. These can be set to cover a fairly large spread. It is recommended that you
install lights outside every doorway to the house. If there is a side of the house that tends to be very dark it might be a good idea to install a light there as well to prevent
concealment in the shadows.
This makes you more organized, secured, and informed even
when you’re away.

Whether you choose to monitor yourself or have professionals do it for you, you’ll still be charged. Scout charges $10 per month just for DIY monitoring — there is no free monitoring plan. DIY monitoring is only $10 less than the professional plan. This isn’t exceptional when it comes to DIY home security, however, since many have cellular connections. These connections work similarly to your cell phone plan and are more secure than traditional Wi Fi or landline connections. But it’s important to note that even if you’re doing the monitoring yourself, you’ll still be charged to keep your
system up and running. If you don’t buy the equipment outright,
Vivint requires either a four or five year contract — a long time to commit, especially given that you only have three days from the date of install to cancel. Afterwards, you’ll have to pay out the remainder of your contract. If you may be moving in the near future, it’ll cost you $99 to take the system with you. You could alternatively renew your contract, but then you’d be locked in for even longer. Vivint will waive any cancellation fees for extenuating circumstances like death, military circumstances, bankruptcy, or a move to assisted living.