Any feedback on the Slomins Shield home security system? (how much, month to)

[mikieguns]

The house we bought is already installed with a Slomins alarm system. I was wondering if anyone had any experience with them. I have heard that the upfront hardware and installation can be expensive, so my initial thought is to just use whatever is already here and not try to switch to another system. I am surprised the previous owner didn't take this stuff with them.

Thanks!

[Retriever]

I have had a Slomins system for approximately 15 years, and I have never had any complaints.
No equipment breakdowns ever, and when I needed an extra part for the telephone connection after switching to DSL service, they did not charge me for the service call, even though they had told me that there would be a service charge.

On the two occasions when my alarm sounded (due to an inadvertently unlocked back door that blew open with the wind) they phoned me immediately on my cell phone. When I did not respond immediately, they sent the police, who--according to my neighbors--did a walk-through before securing the house.

When the, "high water" alarm sounded, they phoned me immediately, and when I did not respond right away, they phoned the second & third people listed on my calling list.

So...no complaints.

When it was time for contract renewal every 3 years, I have managed to have extra equipment added (gratis), as my "renewal/longevity bonus". While they did not offer upgrades voluntarily, they agreed to my upgrade requests very readily.

There may well be other alarm services that offer the same service, but I can only report on my experiences. Make sure that you give the Slomins staff a new password for when you have to contact them, or when they need to contact you. If your alarm sounds and you have not changed the password of the previous owner, when Slomins calls you to ask, "Is everything OK?", if you cannot provide the correct password, they will send the police, on the assumption that you are the intruder.

Also, be sure to update the phone numbers for them to contact you and your relatives in case of emergency.

[mikealarm]

The problem with Slomins is they charge too much for monitoring, and they lock their panels withe a dealer code so you cannot go with anyone else.

[jimazee]

Originally Posted by mikealarm

The problem with Slomin's is they charge too much for monitoring, and they lock their panels withe a dealer code so you cannot go with anyone else.

I'm not familiar with this company. It certainly looks reputable and capable. The 'lock in' by equipment and contract is a typical 'tactic' of many traditional security services. It's the old printer/ink or razor/blade model. Get an estimate (there are usually 'extras' galore)..read the contracts carefully and decide if it is for you.

Most central monitoring services appear similar and are probably done out of a few big boiler room type operations...many will be out of state (or country??) ...not that there is anything wrong with that.

There are some alternatives and DIY approaches, that are improving as most tech things are, but still require some 'handy' and planning skills ... here is one example that I have heard a lot of but not personally used. Others will chime in with what they know/have found.

Home Security Systems from SimpliSafe

[mikieguns]

Their web site says you have to lock in for 5 years. And if you move before that, you are basically screwed. Cannot transfer to the new house. Anyone experience this?

[CaptainNJ]

how much do they want for the monitoring?

I saw an ad for simplisafe online so I went to their web site. 14.99 a month monitoring. that's a savings, but id need to get all new equipment. I was no longer bound by my contract with my alarm company so I called them up and said im canceling and switching. they went down from $32 a month to $24 a month. that's not as low as I would like it, but to switch means buying all new equipment that would take a few years to pay off with the savings. id suggest calling slomins and telling them you are planning on getting simplisafe at 14.99 a month and just wanted to get a price from them since their equipment is there.

also, when I got the new rate, the guy wanted to lock me into a new contract term (2+ years or so). I said that I will leave if they require me to lock in with them for a time. so he accepted that and im month to month so I can cancel/renegotiate at any time. being locked in a contract sucks.

[LeeA1234]

I work with a company called VIVINT which basically deals in smart homes. It is exciting and good. I can help if you like

[Taliahb]

Do any one know how many times will the police come out before they start to charge you and how much is the fees?

[bigjake54]

How much does it cost for these?
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