With more than 100 home security alarm companies in Atlanta and surrounding areas, it can be hard to tell one company from the other.

It can also be hard to identify the reputable companies from those that are a little shaky.

We’ve been protecting homeowners in Atlanta since 1998, and we’ve heard our fair share of tall tales told by others. Here are five of the most common lies we’ve heard about home security companies in Atlanta:

# 1 – All Atlanta Home Security Companies Can Be Trusted.

It would be great if that statement were true. In today’s society, however, virtually every institution and industry have been rocked by scandal. The security industry is no exception.

Check out any company before you talk to them. Search their business name on Google. Go to review sites like Kudzu or Yelp. Check with the Better Business Bureau and state licensing agencies.

Always know who you are dealing with before inviting them into your home.

# 2 – All Companies Perform The Same Way.

Some people view all Atlanta home security companies as performing exactly the same way, with the only difference being the price of the security system. Believing this lie jeopardizes the safety of you and your family.

Different companies have different operating philosophies and business models. Hiring and training practices can vary between companies. Companies have different standards of performance and expectation levels.

# 3 – All Companies Protect Homes The Same Way.

That’s like saying all people make barbeque the same way. Your lifestyle and home are unique and effective Atlanta home security companies recognize your uniqueness. They custom design home security systems that protect you and that fit into your lifestyle and your budget.

Different companies will have different approaches to protecting your home. Make sure you understand what is being recommended, why it is being recommended and how it helps you achieve your objectives.

# 4 – All Atlanta Security Companies Sell The Same Equipment.

You’ll often hear this lie told as something like, “All home security equipment is basically the same.”

That simply is not true. There is low-end security equipment and it is high-end. Some equipment comes with longer warranties and better guarantees than others. Some companies use hard wired alarm systems while others use wireless.

It’s important you understand the equipment that is being used to protect you. Know its reliability, warranty, and reputation in the marketplace.

# 5 – All Atlanta Home Alarm Monitoring Companies Do The Same Thing.

We’ve seen this lie result in more heartache for homeowners than you could shake a stick at.

There are currently no state laws requiring how home alarm systems are monitored in Georgia. Some companies actually monitor alarm systems from the living room of their home! That’s not very secure. Some monitoring centers don’t meet UL performance standards and many are not redundant, leaving you vulnerable during an attack or natural disaster.

Look beyond the price of the monitoring to see the value of what you are getting. The most critical component of any home security system is who responds and when. Make sure you know what you are getting.