What are the pros and cons of a DIY video surveillance system?

<div>With the popularity of <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-install-security-cameras.htm">DIY security cameras</a> and video surveillance systems, it’s important to understand the benefits and potential drawbacks to decide if it’s the right choice for you. Advantages and disadvantages include:Pros<ul><li>Video footage readily available</li><li>Reduced home insurance</li><li>Save on labor costs by installing security cameras yourself</li><li>Wireless systems are easy to move and set up</li><li>Monitor from your smartphone</li><li>Avoid false alarms</li></ul>Cons<ul><li>Features may be vulnerable to hackers</li><li>No direct link to authorities</li><li>Risk of installing the system improperly, reducing its effectiveness</li></ul></div>

What are the pros and cons of a security system?

<div>Understanding the pros and cons of installing a home security system is the first step to deciding which one is right for you. A few of the advantages and disadvantages include:Pros<ul><li>Added security for your household</li><li>Reduced home insurance premiums</li><li>Many smart home integrations available</li><li>Security companies can monitor your home </li></ul>Cons<ul><li>Expensive setup costs </li><li>Subscription costs can add up quickly</li><li>Features may be vulnerable to hackers</li><li>Weak signal reduces the security of a wireless system</li></ul></div>

Get matched with top home security system pros in Indianapolis, IN

There are 10 highly-rated local home security system pros.

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TRUSTED BY INDIANAPOLIS, IN HOMEOWNERS

4.4

Average homeowner rating

249

Verified home security system services reviews

Verified Reviews for Home Security System Service pros in Indianapolis, IN

*The Angi rating for Home Security System Service companies in Indianapolis, IN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Home Security System Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Home Security System Service companies in Indianapolis, IN is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Home Security System Service needs.

Last update on August 24, 2025

Reviewed in August 2017
The grounds of the storage facility are always very secure. I've had other units at other places that proved un secure. Clean, repairs made quickly.
U STOR SELF STORAGE
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Reviewed in January 2014
My experience has been good. I'm satisfied with the TV because I get lots of channels, I'm satisfied with the internet and it's just the telephone I've been thinking about changing just to un-bundle it because I have a security system. When the phone doesn't function then neither does the...
Bright House Networks
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Reviewed in January 2014
I shopped around for a home security system & decided on a wireless system. Meaning, I could install it myself without any electrical work. It was very easy & functions just as well as a wired system. The monthly fees beat the competition, and there's not contract. I can move, taking the system...
SimpliSafe Home Security
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Reviewed in June 2013
Bryant Heating and Air installed some security systems negligently (did not follow manufacturer installation guidelines they left the siren and wires within arms reach and the wires were clipped) all three of my new air condition units they installed watch dog on were stolen.
Bryant Heating & Air Conditioning Co Inc
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Reviewed in January 2013
Chris has made several visits to our home and always displays a strong desire to do what is right for us. So he listens, asks for clarification, and then uses his amazing ability to select the right security equipment, put it in place, and then train us on how to make it compatible with our own...
Secured Home Solutions ADT Authorized Dealer
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Reviewed in September 2009
They were available to come out the same day that I called them. The installers were very persistent. I live in and eighty six year old house, which was clearly not designed for a security system. They were very persistent about making all of the wiring work. They spent at least six hours doing...
Peace of Mind Security Specialists
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Reviewed in July 2009
We're in the midst of a remodeling project that expanded the living space of the house, changed doors, etc. We needed to make changes to the security system to accommodate these changes. I contacted Guardian and another company to obtain estimates and any suggestions on updating, etc. the...
Guardian Protection
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Reviewed in May 2008
When Icon representative Bryan Gremillion came to our house at the dinner hour he mislead us by suggesting that he worked for our security provider, our current security system provider. It wasn't until my husband agreed to switch to the upgraded system and Mr. Gremillion began to suggest that...
ICON SECURITY INC
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Reviewed in November 2006
I have been a customer for 8 years now, the security system was installed prior to my purchasing the home. This is the first service call I have ever had. The customer service department was very helpful and kind as was the technician. The technician had to do a little trouble shooting, due to...
INTERFACE SYSTEMS INC
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Home security system pros in Indianapolis

36 years of experience

SECURITY LINK FROM AMERITECH

2425 N. MERIDIAN

3.44(

)

SECURITY LINK FROM AMERITECH

2425 N. MERIDIAN

3.44(

)

39 years of experience

Safe Haven Security, Inc.

445 E College Avenue

No reviews

Safe Haven Security, Inc.

445 E College Avenue

No reviews

23 years of experience

Safe Haven Security, Inc. is unlike the traditional alarm company. We never require you to enter into an alarm monitoring agreement or contract. We have many options that get you out of those! Although we do not require those options, they are available. Our most popular package is $399 and includes protection for 3 doors, a motion sensor, keypad, control panel, and siren.

Rapid Security and Automation

122 Hometown Plaza

No reviews

Rapid Security and Automation

122 Hometown Plaza

No reviews

15 years of experience

We are a full service Security and Home Automation Business serving the Louisville,Lexington,Evansville and Indianapolis Areas.

37 years of experience

ADDTL PH: (866)581-4540. ADDTL EMAIL: [email protected].

Automatic Gates and Access Control

PO Box 72

4.40(

)

Automatic Gates and Access Control

PO Box 72

4.40(

)

Customers say: Terrific value

37 years of experience

Aluminum Steel and Cedar Gates and Fencing, Gate Operators, Telephone Entries, Home Video Surveillance Equipment, Home Alarms (no monthly fees). All Your Access Control Needs!

"At the beginning John McGee was professional and helpful, and advised us on the best products to purchase. They then installed a swing gate with internet gateway and keypad, and attempted so set up two automobile remotes (per their quote). They had to come out a couple times to set up the gate correctly, and were initially responsive. They have not provided working remotes, however, and have not responded to our requests to correct for two months. At first they said the remotes they provided did not work because they were getting interference from an ultrasonic pest controller in our yard, but still did not work after turning those off and resetting. John then promised to drop off a new set with different frequency, but never did, and then ghosted us, never responding to our texts, calls and emails asking for an update. We paid in full, but they did not complete the job and customer service was horrible after the first couple interactions."

Kendall M on August 2022

Aluminum Steel and Cedar Gates and Fencing, Gate Operators, Telephone Entries, Home Video Surveillance Equipment, Home Alarms (no monthly fees). All Your Access Control Needs!

Kendall M on August 2022

T3H Security & Cabling

1313 Elk Lane

5.00(

)

T3H Security & Cabling

1313 Elk Lane

5.00(

)

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Service and installation of Security and Cabling systems

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

We have more than 25 years of experience, we have been offering repair services to cars, trucks, and scooters.

Midwest Protect

8888 N Keystone Crossing

4.50(

)

Midwest Protect

8888 N Keystone Crossing

4.50(

)

Customers say: Super punctual

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Providing State of the Art Wireless Security and Home Automation at No Upfront Cost Monitronics Authorized Dealer - www.monitronics.com/awards-recognition

Indiana Alarm

8727 Commerce Park Place

4.90(

)

Indiana Alarm

8727 Commerce Park Place

4.90(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

Indiana Alarm has been a locally owned and operated company for over a decade. Our customers are our family and we strive to provide every single one of them with the highest quality of service and equipment that is available. Although, we are locally owned and operated we provide the most up to date knowledge on new cutting edge technology in the industry. We make it our mission to provide our customers with the most current product information on the market. Our prices and customer service rival that of any of the "big named" security companies in the market today. When you call for a service call or simply have a question about your system, you are calling a local number within Indiana. Our security and automation equipment is manufactured by the top names in the industry today and our monitoring station is based and operated within the United States. We offer free home visits for estimates with a "no pressure" presentation that leaves you available to evaluate your options on your own time.

"I would definitely recommend Indiana Alarm. Pam, who works in the office, is extremely knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. I had a very positive experience with Bob, who came out to give me an estimate and from Guy, who was the installer. Again, all were knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. All of the appointments were on time. Also, the cost of the monthly monitoring service is very reasonable, as was the cost to switch out the cellular unit."

Patricia B on October 2022

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FAQs for home security system service projects in Indianapolis, IN

The average cost of a home security system is about $700, ranging from $280 to $1,150. Costs to consider include equipment, surveillance fees, and other additional features. Cost factors that determine your system’s price include the type of security system, materials, labor, activation fees, monthly fees, and permits. Additional features and upgrades may include:

Video surveillance monitoring: $40–$65 per month
Smart home locks: $150
Smart home lighting: $15–$90
Smart smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide alarms: $35–$100
Smart thermostat: $130–$500

Yes, a home security system can be worth it for your peace of mind alone, but it can also save you up to 20% on your home insurance. The insurance savings will help defray the initial setup costs and subscription costs over time. Locations with higher crime rates also make home security systems a valuable investment, but it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and asset values.

With the popularity of DIY security cameras and video surveillance systems, it’s important to understand the benefits and potential drawbacks to decide if it’s the right choice for you. Advantages and disadvantages include:

Pros

Video footage readily available
Reduced home insurance
Save on labor costs by installing security cameras yourself
Wireless systems are easy to move and set up
Monitor from your smartphone
Avoid false alarms

Cons

Features may be vulnerable to hackers
No direct link to authorities
Risk of installing the system improperly, reducing its effectiveness

Whether a security system or security cameras is a better choice for you depends on your needs and preferred comfort level. A security system can cost more depending on the features you choose, but it’s a more proactive and protective approach to home security by alerting you and authorities of any emergencies. Using a security camera system is a more reactive approach because while you can monitor the camera footage, it does not alert the proper authorities for you.

Understanding the pros and cons of installing a home security system is the first step to deciding which one is right for you. A few of the advantages and disadvantages include:

Pros