Ten or fifteen years ago, security systems were not on most homeowners’ radars. Reserved for businesses or the ultra-rich with luxury properties to protect, they were costly and difficult to install. Nowadays, however, home security is accessible to virtually everyone and will continue to evolve as the market grows. Here’s a look at some new trends and pointers if you don’t yet have a home security system.

Basic Home Security: Smart Locks

Home security evolution has been largely driven by advances in mobile technology and integrating mobile apps with security. One of the most basic ways these two elements combine is in smart locks.

Smart locks are door locks that can be activated by Bluetooth technology via mobile phone. You can unlock and open your front door, for example, before you even get out of the car with a sleepy toddler or a sack of groceries in your arms. Some smart locks will also record images of anyone on your front stoop, so you can see who came calling while you were out.

Alarm and Camera Systems

For homeowners who want more protection, alarm and/or camera systems are popular. The cost of these has come down, and new wireless technology makes installation a breeze, as no drilling or running wires is required. Companies like NorthStar Alarm company have several package options for home camera systems.

If you think you don’t need a home security system, you may want to reconsider after seeing these statistics:

• In 2012, there was one robbery every 90 seconds and one burglary every 15 seconds in the US.
• Nearly 100% of convicted burglars said they avoided residences with alarm systems.
• Audible alarms are a deterrent to burglaries in a large percentage of instances.

Like smart locks, home alarm and camera security systems are tied to mobile technology. You can have 24-hour video surveillance of your property and intrusion alerts sent to your cell phone, as well as lock your doors and activate alarms from anywhere on the planet.

Fire and Environmental Control

All the technological advances in preventing home crimes have boosted fire and environmental alarms too. You can now receive text messages, phone calls and emails when your smoke or carbon monoxide detectors go off. You can also receive alerts about the temperature, humidity and water systems in your home—ideal if you have pets left alone or an art or wine collection you want to protect from extreme elements or leakage.

Home Security Professionals

Home security professionals have had to step it up a notch to keep up with this evolving technology, and there are now a number of reputable consultants on the market. Some things to look for in a home security company include:

• A track record of satisfied customers
• Use of the latest technology
• Free estimates for services and equipment
• Warranties on labor and materials
• 24/7 support for emergencies and rapid response time
• Helpful customer service
• Any licensing, bonding or insurance required by your state or municipality

While you may be able to make some home security projects a DIY job, it’s best to call in the pros to handle it. Not only will they do the job quickly and correctly, they may be able to identify potential security breaches that you haven’t even thought of.

The Future of Home Security

Home security systems will certainly become more prevalent and easier to use. Already users are seeing the integration of multiple systems via one app, such as combining security and fire alarms. A likely area of growth will be in specialized smart locks that can allow temporary access at designated times for people like plumbers, housekeepers and nannies.

Your home is your castle, and just like in days of old, it must be protected. Having home security is proven to deter crime, and it will offer you and your family peace of mind as well.

About the author: A recent college graduate from University of San Francisco, Anica loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.