This blog post is going to answer the most common questions we receive regarding the price of security cameras, installation, and monitoring for businesses.
What’s the Cost of a Security System for a Business?
Cost can be broken down into three categories:
- Hardware: $50 to $500 per camera depending on features and type. $600 to $1,200 per access control reader.
- Installation: $100 to $300 per camera and $500 to $2,500 per access-controlled door.
- Monitoring: $14.99 to $120/month.
How Much Does It Cost To Monitor A Business Security System?
It costs between $14.99 to $120 per month for a security professional to monitor your business security system. The price depends on the number of cameras/entrances being monitored and the type (landline vs. cellular).
What Type Of Contract Length Can I Expect From Security Providers?
Alarm monitoring contracts can last anywhere from 12 months to 60 months depending on the provider and your plan. The longer your contract, the lower your fees will be since you’ll spread out the cost of installation and equipment over the length of the contract.
Should I Lease Or Buy Security Camera Equipment?
The overall cost of buying your own equipment compared to leasing will be lower. You’ll also have the option to switch monitoring providers if need be when you own your security equipment. Leasing is a good option if you want lower upfront costs and don’t want to handle the maintenance of the equipment.
How Much Does It Cost To Install Cameras In A Business?
The cost to hire professional security camera installers ranges from $100 to $300 per camera. The factors that determine the total price include the number of cameras, types of cameras (dome, thermal, box, wireless IP, etc.), and the specific service provider.
Which Security System Is Best For Business?
The Best Business Security Systems In 2022
How Much Does A Good Camera System Cost?
In 2022, good security cameras cost between $125– $500 per camera. On average, professional installers can install four cameras/day. Therefore, the daily installation cost will be between $400 to $2,000/day. A good business security camera is durable, high-definition, and able to store/share video.
Can A Security Camera System Lower Insurance Premiums?
One of the most common claims against the property or general liability insurance for businesses is theft and burglary. Security cameras with live monitoring are a great investment because they lower the incidences of crime on your property. Insurance companies will factor this in when determining your insurance premium.
Can You Install Your Own Business Security System?
Companies like Ring and SimpliSafe offer DIY security systems that you can monitor yourself (or sign up for monthly monitoring). You should hire a security camera installation company if your business needs a wired security installation, motion sensors in multiple locations, access control or if you’re unsure what your best options are.
Is A Business Security System Worth It?
According to these stats, business security systems are worth the investment:
- 60% of burglars are deterred by an alarm system.
- 60% of commercial burglary attempts occur after business hours.
- Nationally, businesses lose $25,000 to $33,000 every minute to shoplifters.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of False Alarms?
80% of false alarms are caused by use errors like entering the incorrect pin, leaving self-moving objects near motion sensors, or turning on the alarm while employees/customers are still present. Improper installation of motion sensors and alarms is a common cause of false alarms.
Can My Business Get Fined For False Alarms?
False alarm fines vary between counties and cities, but most have a three-strike policy, where the first few false alarms within a calendar year are allowed without a fine. Fines can range from $50 to $500. Some police departments will fine businesses as well as alarm companies for reporting false disturbances.
Should I Get Professional Monitoring?
Professional monitoring over self-monitoring can save a business owner both time and money. 3rd-party monitoring services can offer around-the-clock protection as well as video verification, which can lead to a faster police response. Due to the high occurrence of false alarms, a motion sensor going off does not always guarantee a police response.
How Much Does It Cost To Install Access Control?
In 2022, an access control system costs $500 to $2,500 per door. Keypad, access card, and smartphone systems are affordable options costing no more than $1,500, requiring just a door strike, access control panel, and power supply. Biometric access control cost ranges from $2,500 to $10,000 per door.
Why Is Access Control So Expensive?
Keycard systems are the most expensive access control systems because installation requires professional expertise. More, the complex systems need your door hardware, including strikes, keypads, and locks, to be fully compatible.
Related: Access Control Buyers Guide
Which Access Control Systems Are The Best?
The Best Access Control Systems In 2022:
How Much Does A Buzzer System Cost?
Telephone intercom or door buzzer entry systems cost anywhere from $450 for a basic buzzer system and installation to $10,000 when you include video, monitoring, storage, and reception features. The price depends on the number of consoles, wireless or hardwired, and equipment features.
Which Buzzer Systems Are The Best?
The Best Buzzer Systems In 2022
- Aiphone IX-DVF-4
- DoorKing Telephone Entry System
- DoorBird IP Video Door Station
- 2N IP Force
- Alpha Communications GB2
- ButterflyMX
Is SimpliSafe Good For Businesses?
Simplisafe offers small to medium-sized businesses affordable, DIY installation security camera systems with ZERO contracts. They also provide professional monitoring, including police dispatch and water/fire detection. There are concerns with vulnerabilities allowing tech-savvy burglars to disable the system remotely.
Can Ring Be Used For Business?
Ring offers small business security features like doorbells, security cameras, and alarms. Ring does not require a professional installation, further dropping the cost. If you do not need an access control system, then Ring is a serviceable option.
Final Word
That was intentionally straight to the point because the answers to these questions don’t require any beating around the bush. There is little variation in the price of both camera hardware, installation, and monitoring nationwide. If you’re located in California and have more questions about installing a commercial security camera system, get in touch with the team at Safe And Sound Security.