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 San Antonio, TX

There are 8 highly-rated local home security system pros.

Need a pro for your home security system service project in San Antonio, TX?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Electrical Switches, Outlets & Fixtures Install or Repair

Alarm or Security System Installation

Surveillance Cameras Install or Repair

TRUSTED BY SAN ANTONIO, TX HOMEOWNERS

4.3

Average homeowner rating

Verified home security system services reviews

Verified Reviews for Home Security System Service pros in San Antonio, TX

*The Angi rating for Home Security System Service companies in San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX 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 04, 2025

Reviewed in March 2022
THE INSTALLATION WAS GREAT BUT I NEVER GOT A RECEIPT OR A BUSINESS CARD. CUSTOMER SERVICE WAS TERRIBLE, I LEFT THEM 2 MESSAGES BECAUSE I WAS HAVING A SMALL ISSUE AND I NEVER HEARD FROM THEM. ONCE THEY INSTALLED MY SECURITY SYSTEM, THEY WERE GONE. POOF.
Aegis Surveillance & Security, LLC
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Reviewed in December 2015
Very easy to install. Very easy to customize (some doors and windows can be adjusted for time delay for each door or window). Glass break sensors are able to customize (home theater) off when home, on while away.
SimpliSafe Home Security
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Reviewed in March 2015
My husband travels fairly regularly so we decided to install a security system in our new home. Theo arrived on time and did a thorough inspection of our home to assess what kind of coverage would fit our needs. He was very polite and explained every step in the process. He installed a keypad,...
ProTECHt Home Security
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Reviewed in December 2014
Anton came to my home diagnosed the system to need a new outdoor unit. Once the home warranty company ordered the part, Anton (who I believe is the owner of the company) called to schedule installation. On the morning of installation, he called at the time he was due to arrive and told me that...
Air 2 U
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Reviewed in November 2014
Jerry and the Tasco team came in and provided the best idea for putting a Central unit in this home. The price was extremely competitive for the challenges with this home. Even though it was a difficult install they completed it in a timely manner and system is working great. Thank you to the...
Tasco Air Conditioning
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Reviewed in May 2014
Bryan was very professional and showed up right on time. He thoroughly explained the system how it worked, what my options where, and what price points I was looking at for different levels of home security and automation. As a result I've set up an appointment for an install.
ASG Security
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Reviewed in July 2012
Mr. Louis Wood came and give me good answers. I am planning to switch over to Law Security at the end of the month.
Law Security Corp
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Reviewed in February 2012
Great. Security system for 35 years.
ADP
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Reviewed in September 2007
I am very comfortable having them service and monitor my home security system. I think ADT has always been a good company and they have wonderful customer service. They respond very quickly and I am very satisfied with the service.
ADT Security Services
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Home security system pros in San Antonio

Locally owned.

Global Security & Comm ADT

10858 Gulfdale St

2.00(

)

Global Security & Comm ADT

10858 Gulfdale St

2.00(

)

20 years of experience

GSC is a Special Promotions ADT Authorised Retailer that offers promotions for quality residential and commercial alarm and surveilance systems.

Res Comm Video Surveillance

7915 Oakwood Pines

No reviews

Res Comm Video Surveillance

7915 Oakwood Pines

No reviews

15 years of experience

Res-Comm Video Surveillance is an owner run and operated company with over 20 years experience. We are able to provide the best in business alarm systems, in addition those that protect your home. We know that your business is also a major concern, and we put our all into protecting it. From window sensors to room fogger machines, we have you covered. Our systems really do offer the best in personal and asset protection. Our knowledgeable staff is prepared to help you identify the best solutions for your home or business. They can assist you in determining what components will work the best for your situation and will work to find one that fits your budget, as well. We know that choosing from the myriad of business alarm systems on the market can be daunting, and we help take the anxiety out of the decision by arming you with the most up-to-date information. San Antonio and surrounding areas, call today for a free estimate.

Soundmaster Tint & Alarm

5563 De Zavala Rd

2.50(

)

Soundmaster Tint & Alarm

5563 De Zavala Rd

2.50(

)

Customers say: Quality work

32 years of experience

Established in 1993, Soundmaster Tint & Alarm is the one-stop shop in San Antonio for a wide selection of mobile electronics and accessories. With over 18 years of hands-on experience in the trade, we're able to offer custom installation for car audio components, mobile video systems, remote starters, and more.

17 years of experience

Our goal is to provide our customers with the absolute best Security System Supplier. Our experience has made us the most trusted source for Alarm System.

Prestige Auto Detailing and Car Wash San Antonio

5415 Bandera Rd

No reviews

Prestige Auto Detailing and Car Wash San Antonio

5415 Bandera Rd

No reviews

35 years of experience

We provide customers with the most competitive prices in San Antonio. To ensure your receiving the best prices we will even match or beat competitors! We offer Auto Detailing, Car Washes, Mobile Car Wash, Window Tint, Auto Alarms, Car Stereos, DVD and all of the latest in Car and Truck Accessories!

19 years of experience

WE OFFER COMPETITIVE PRICING AND WILL MATCH ANY OFFER. DISCOUNTS TO OUR NEW AND REPEAT CUSTOMERS ARE GENEROUS. WE WILL WAIVE STANDARD SERVICE CALL FEE OF $65.00 UPON CONTRACT AGREEMENT FOR ANY OF OUR SERVICES. DISCOUNT APPLIES TO FIRST SERVICE CALL. WE OFFER PAYMENT PLANS AND ACCEPT CASH, CREDIT CARDS AND CHECKS.

18 years of experience

I-Tech Direct installs home and office security systems. We offer the most advanced systems available on the martket. We in stall the 2GIG System which is award winning in 2010/2011.We have professional employees who are on time and get the job done right! 100% customer satisfaction is our goal!

Secured Alarm Systems

901 NE Loop 410

No reviews

Secured Alarm Systems

901 NE Loop 410

No reviews

15 years of experience

Residential & Small Business Security Monitoring Services: •Licensed by the Texas Private Security Board •Authorized Security Networks Affiliate •24/7 Monitoring through UL Listed Facilities •Lifetime Service Warranty •$1000 Theft Protection Guarantee •False Alarm Protection Guarantee •FREE Customer Move Certificate •Full Line of Wireless & Hardwired Devices •No Activation fees and a No Cost Basic Installation (Including Cellular Device) •Honeywell Security Products •A+ Accredited with the BBB

Atomic Security Inc. (DBA ASI Protection Services)

13706 Research Blvd.

No reviews

Atomic Security Inc. (DBA ASI Protection Services)

13706 Research Blvd.

No reviews

26 years of experience

ASI Protection Services is a locally owned full services security company located in Austin, TX. We have been in business since 1999 and have provided security for over 10,000 homes and businesses. We are powered by a team of management with over 20 years of experience in the security business. ASI is a member of the Central Texas BBB with an A+ rating. Our monitoring rates are typically lower than our national competitors.

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FAQs for home security system service projects in San Antonio, TX

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

Added security for your household
Reduced home insurance premiums
Many smart home integrations available
Security companies can monitor your home

Cons

Expensive setup costs
Subscription costs can add up quickly
Features may be vulnerable to hackers
Weak signal reduces the security of a wireless system

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