What's the Difference Between Monitored vs. Unmonitored Smart Home Security Systems?

When considering smart home security monitoring, you might be overwhelmed at the possibilities and unsure of the differences between unmonitored and monitored security systems. While we'll go into more detail below, it basically comes down:

• Monitored smart home security systems: These come with 24/7 surveillance by a team of professionals who will notify emergency services for you.

• Unmonitored smart home security systems: These rely on your ability to self-monitor, even when you’re away. This means you’ll be responsible for calling the authorities in case your system is triggered. 

Keep reading to find out more about each service and to decide which is the better option for your smart home security system.

Monitored Smart Home Security Systems

Smart home monitoring is the perfect solution for those who'd prefer the added protection of well-trained operators, and a trustworthy team. We recommend smart home monitoring for everyone so we can help keep an eye on your home's security, even when you can't.

Saying that a home has “monitored smart home security” is a blanket term, as each company has individual policies and features, which is why it’s important to do your research and consider the following questions: 

• Who will be monitoring my home? 

• Does the company monitor in-house, or do they outsource monitoring?

• What if my house still gets broken into? 

Security Operators You Can Trust

One thing to consider when switching to smart home monitoring is the commitment of the monitoring operators. At ADT, we have over 17,000 representatives with an average tenure of five years. 

Our operators are some of the most experienced in the industry, and our track record shows that. While at home or traveling, you will have a team of dedicated professionals on your side to help keep your belongings protected. Although you can self-monitor your property, sometimes, that is not enough. Without having to check your phone constantly and waste headspace, you can rest assured that your home is being monitored 24/7. 

When finding smart home monitoring, it is important to research the company. At ADT, we have three times as many monitoring centers as our competitors, and we never outsource our monitoring staff.  

It is also important to consider your level of protection when looking into smart home monitoring. Although you can imagine that every company that offers monitored security service is looking out for your best interest, mistakes happen, and, with that, so does theft. We provide up to $500 of your insurance deductible when your if security system is armed and a burglary occurs. 

Unmonitored Smart Home Security Systems

Unmonitored home security systems can be a bit cheaper than smart home monitoring systems. As a result, you might have to be a bit more vigilant when deciding on the right option for you. 

Unmonitored home security is best for those who feel they can oversee their homes by themselves. This means, whether home or abroad, you will need to monitor your home and call for help in the event of an emergency. 

Compatible Smart Home Devices to Monitor

With an ADT Smart Home Security System, you can connect smart devices, like lights, locks, and your security system, and control them through the ADT mobile app. Home security goes beyond keeping an eye out for home intruders, which is why we offer compatible smart devices. In this section, we’ll dive into our additional safety features, including:

• Panic button

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Flood detectors

Panic Button

We offer 24/7 help with the two-button touch emergency button. If the panic button is pressed, an agent from our team of highly trained individuals will assist you. Once alerted, they will get you help from local first responders. Our emergency buttons are wireless and integrate with the ADT Command system. The panic button is wearable (neck, wristband, clip to your clothes), so no matter where you are, you are protected.  

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

At ADT, we make life safety one of our priorities, which is why we enable users to integrate smart smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to be monitored. Carbon monoxide leaks are odorless and can harm you before you would even know there was an issue, which is why it’s critical to have a carbon monoxide detector. 

When our sensors ping, our monitoring centers are alerted almost instantaneously so that we can quickly send first responders to your home. Once detected, our solution will turn off the air in your home to prevent further carbon monoxide circulation. Additionally, all smart lock-equipped doors will be unlocked to let in first responders. 

Flood Detectors

Smart home monitoring systems can also be tied to flood sensors. At ADT, we help minimize flood damage with early detection. Sensors are battery-powered so that they can be placed virtually anywhere in your home, especially those otherwise hard-to-reach places. 

We suggest placing flood sensors in the basement, near a laundry machine, dishwasher, or anywhere else that flooding could occur in your home. Our monitoring of flood sensors is especially helpful for when you're traveling or if you have a vacation/rental property, so it's monitored even when you can't be there. 

Why Trust a Security Company to Monitor Your Home?

Even though you can monitor your house by yourself, that burden can bring along added stress. 

Making the switch to smart home monitoring ensures that you have a team of trained professionals who is ready at a moment’s notice to protect the things you care about. 

Digital distractions are ever-growing, and it can be difficult to remain present in your day-to-day life when you're constantly getting alerts. With smart home monitoring, you can confidently put away the digital distractions during your child's dance recital or soccer game by knowing that you have the best professionals in the industry keeping watch. 

At ADT, we make it our priority to respond to motion alerts as quickly as possible so that you can rest assured that you are protected while enjoying life’s happier moments. 

Three Benefits of Smart Home Monitoring  

Modern home security systems allow you to stay on top of things and monitor your home, but often overlooked additional features include: 

• Smart home monitoring can add to property value: A quality system that’s ready for the next family can add even more value to your property. 

• Decreases the risk of package theft: With the rise of online shopping, package robberies are growing ever more common. With a home security system, you can monitor your packages, helping you to prevent theft. 

• Backyard safety: Additionally, a security system can help your family stay safe while at the pool. Constantly having to supervise friends and family while in the pool can prove difficult. Although parental supervision is still required, ADT recommends an outdoor camera that you can monitor from your ADT mobile app so that you’re proactive and always in the loop. 

ADT Smart Home Monitoring Security Solutions

We offer three home security packages to choose from initially that we can customize to fit your specific needs. Regardless of which plan you choose, our plans come with 24/7 monitoring by the most experienced operators in the game. We will provide all of the essentials and will install your devices so that you’re worry-free. 

All of our smart home monitoring solutions are compatible with your favorite smart home devices. Simply use ADT Command and Control to control your home, controlling your alarm and smart equipment from virtually anywhere. 

ADT Command provides better control and smarter home security from an innovative touchpad. The ADT Control app enables you to control your alarms from anywhere. As a mobile version of the ADT Command platform, the ADT Control app is a convenient security tool from your mobile device. 

From the ADT Control App, you will:

• Receive instant alerts: If your system status changes or a door is unlocked, you’ll receive instant alerts from your phone.  

• Be able to control your system remotely: Arm or disarm your home security system from your smart device. 

An Option for Everyone 

Ultimately, the difference between unmonitored and monitored smart home security systems is quite simple and can be broken down to this question: If an alarm chimes, will you need to check it out and call for help, or will you have a dedicated team of individuals to call for help? 

Whether you choose an unmonitored security system or a smart home monitoring system, there are options that fit your lifestyle. 

No matter which system you choose, though, ADT has got your back. As the industry's largest sales, installation, and service field force, we help save lives for a living. We'll do the work for you so that you can focus on living your best life.