Home Security in Reston, VA

With a monitored system, a company watches for alarms and contacts you or the authorities. With self-monitoring, your phone gets the alerts and you decide what to do. Ask what each option includes. In an emergency, call the emergency number first.

Ask before you agree. Some companies use a contract for monitoring, and equipment may be sold or leased. Get the length, the monthly charge, the cancellation terms and what happens if you move in writing.

It depends on the state, and sometimes the city. Where a licence is required, ask for the number and check it with the licensing board before work starts. On Pros Around, "Licence verified" means we matched the licence number to the board's record on the date shown. We do not check insurance, so ask for proof of it. Ask whether alarm or low-voltage work needs its own licence where you live.

The sensors, cameras, panel, siren and any smart locks by name and number, plus installation and monitoring. Ask whether the equipment works if the internet or power goes out.

Ask the company where recordings are stored, who can see them, how long they are kept, and whether you can export them. Pros Around does not hold your system data.

The price depends on the size and difficulty of the job. Some pros publish a starting price on their listing. Ask two or three for a written quote that says what is included, and compare the scope as well as the price.

Only customers who contacted a pro through Pros Around can review them, using a link that works once. Pros can reply but cannot delete a review, and reviews are never sold. An admin hides a review only if it breaks our rules, and the reason is recorded.

A to Z by business name. Nothing on this list is ranked, reviewed or paid for.