Home Security System Installation: Professional vs. DIY

Both professional and DIY home security installations have pros and cons. Read our summary of both installation methods to decide which one is right for you.

Written by Brenda Woods Updated 11/11/2024

When you’re considering a home security system, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go for professional installation or handle it yourself. Each option has its advantages and downsides, depending on your technical skills, budget, and security needs. This guide breaks down both methods to help you decide which is right for your home. Plus, we lay out our recommendations for the best professional installation and the best DIY home security systems.

Professional Security System Installation

We recommend professional installation for customers who lack technical expertise, time, or energy. It’s ideal for those who prefer an expert’s touch or want to avoid the technical side of setting up a system. While you gain peace of mind, this option often comes with installation fees and may require long-term contracts.

Pros

Expertise of trained professionals
In-person tutorials and troubleshooting
Upfront equipment costs are lower

Cons

Installation fee is typically $99–$199
Not on your schedule
Typically requires long-term contracts

Benefits of Professional Installation

The primary benefits of professional installation are that it comes with technical expertise and requires no work on your part. As long as you are comfortable with an installation specialist entering your home, professional installation might be the way to go:

Expertise: Professionals handle everything—from installing cameras to configuring motion detectors—to make sure the system works as intended. It may look easy to install yourself, but without home security knowledge, you could install your system in a way that creates blind spots and leaves your home vulnerable. With professional installation, an expert will conduct a security assessment, walk you through the ins and outs of your system, troubleshoot equipment problems, and allow you to ask questions in real-time.
Same-day installation: Certain home security system providers offer same-day installation.
Lower equipment costs: While professional installation often comes with a long-term contract, some companies offer discounted equipment when you choose a professional installation.
Wiring: If you have a wired security system, its installation can require more work than setting up a wireless system. If you aren’t comfortable drilling holes into your own walls or dealing with electrical alarm systems, having a professional install your system may be the best option.

Drawbacks of Professional Installation

There are some negatives to consider when choosing professional installation, including the cost, lack of scheduling flexibility, and long-term contracts:

Fees: Professional installation generally costs between $120 and $600* for labor alone. If your home security system itself is already testing your budget, DIY installation might be a better option.
Scheduling conflicts: You can work with your home security provider to choose the best time for an expert to begin installation. However, there’s no guarantee that they’ll be available at a time that’s ideal for you.
Contracts: Professional installation typically requires a long-term contract of at least one year, with some agreements spanning three years. This is a major drawback for customers who need flexibility or live in an apartment.

Cost data provided by Angi.

DIY Security System Installation

If you’re comfortable with technology and want more flexibility, DIY installation might be your best option. It allows you to set up your security system on your own time without paying for installation services. As with professional installation, there are benefits and drawbacks to DIY installation.

Pros

No installation fee
Done on your schedule
Potentially contract-free

Cons

Takes time and energy
Upfront equipment costs might be higher

Benefits of DIY Installation

The primary benefit of DIY installation is that it’s budget-friendly. And if you enjoy working on projects for your home, this could be a good option for you. Home security service providers try to make DIY installation as easy as possible with adhesive sensors and freestanding equipment. Here are a few more benefits to consider:

No installation fees: Skip the extra $120–$600 in labor costs and set up your system yourself.
Flexibility: Why work around someone else’s schedule when you can plan your own time to install your equipment? With DIY installation, install your system whenever it suits your schedule—there’s no need to wait for a technician.
Contract-free: Instead of locking yourself into a long-term contract, many DIY systems offer month-to-month monitoring plans. This is especially helpful if you have a wired system and plan to move.

Drawbacks of DIY Installation

Examine each of these drawbacks to make the most informed choice for your home:

Effort: You’ll need to invest time, effort, and energy that you might not have to spare.
Lack of expertise: Your home security system should come with a manual and links to online tutorials. But if you’re not tech-savvy, it can be challenging. You also might not know the best locations to set up your sensors. For the most reliable protection, it’s best to go with professional installation if you doubt your abilities.
Higher upfront equipment costs: With DIY installation, you buy all of your equipment at once. This means your initial equipment costs can be higher than with professional installation. Some companies like Frontpoint offer financing plans.

How To Install a DIY Home Security System

If you choose the DIY route, follow these general steps for a successful installation:

Step 1: Plan your system layout. Before you begin, map out where you’ll place sensors and cameras. Think about entry points, high-traffic areas, and valuable item locations.
Step 2: Set up the control panel. Start by setting up your system’s hub or control panel. This usually involves connecting it to your home’s Wi-Fi network and following the manufacturer’s instructions for activation.
Step 3: Install sensors and cameras. Place door and window sensors on entry points. Install motion detectors in key areas and set up cameras where needed. Most DIY systems use adhesive backing for easy mounting.
Step 4: Test your system. Once everything is in place, test each component to make sure it’s working correctly. Arm and disarm the system, trigger sensors, and check camera feeds to verify proper functionality.

More Security System Installation Recommendations

Whether you choose professional or DIY installation, following best practices can help make sure your security system is effective and reliable.

Tips for Professional Installation

Follow these guidelines for a proper installation:

Communicate requirements: Clearly communicate your security needs to the installation team. Discuss any specific areas of concern, such as blind spots or areas that require additional coverage, with your technicians before installation begins.
Learn system operations: Request comprehensive instructions on system operations, including arming and disarming procedures and how to troubleshoot common issues.
Review the setup: After installation, review the setup to familiarize yourself with the equipment and its placement. Understanding how your system is configured can assist you later.

Tips for DIY Installation

Here are some tips for DIY installation:

Test regularly: Regular testing can identify potential issues before they arise. Include checks in your regular home maintenance routine for ongoing reliability.
Follow instructions: Carefully follow the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. Taking time to read the setup guide can prevent errors and achieve proper system function.
Research thoroughly: Do thorough research on products, reading user reviews and technical specifications. Select a security system that aligns with your comfort level and technical skills.

The Best Home Security Systems

Our top three choices for the best security systems are:

ADT: As our top choice for a home security system, ADT has more than 140 years of industry experience, the largest network of professional monitoring centers, and a six-month money-back guarantee.
SimpliSafe: This user-friendly provider offers straightforward, peel-and-stick installation. It also doesn’t require a contract and uses equipment with a battery life that can last more than 10 years.
Vivint: Our choice for the “Best Smart Home Integration” offers in-house professional monitoring, a customizable system, and integration with devices like Amazon Alexa and Philips Hue smart lights.

Our Conclusion

Choosing between professional and DIY home security system installation depends on your preferences and needs. If you’re after convenience and expert help, professional installation is the way to go. On the other hand, DIY offers flexibility, cost savings, and the satisfaction of doing it yourself.

Whichever option is best for you, we recommend you look into at least three different home security system providers to see which one best fits your unique needs and budget.

FAQ About Professional vs. DIY Home Security System Installation

How much does it cost to have a security system installed?

The cost of installation is usually between $120 and $600, but if you purchase equipment upfront, factor that cost in as well.

Can I install my own security system?

Yes. Many providers offer a convenient DIY installation option that lets you put up peel-and-stick sensors and devices.

Is Ring better than ADT?

Although both Ring and ADT are quality home security providers, ADT is our top choice for a home security system. The provider has more than 140 years of industry experience, offers a money-back guarantee, and operates the largest network of professional monitoring centers in the U.S.

Our Rating Methodology

We back up our home security recommendations with a detailed rating methodology that we use to objectively score each provider. Our research includes analyzing product specifications, reviewing service and plan information, speaking with customer service representatives, and analyzing customer reviews. We then score the provider against our review standards for system options, special features, installation options, connectivity and smart-home automation features, pricing, contract terms, warranty, usability, availability of a trial period, and trustworthiness to arrive at a final score out of 100.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.