Brinks (aka Broadview) Security Systems - Our research
Brinks Home Security was recently re-branded to Broadview Security. Broadview Security basically
offers security systems for consumers as well as businesses. Our research focuses mainly on the
home security offers for consumers. We may do some additional research on their business security
systems in the future. You can buy a Broadview security system on the Internet through any
authorized Broadview dealer or directly through Brinks/Broadview on their website at http://www.broadviewsecurity-home.com.
They have an "Internet special" that offers standard installation of $49 plus you get
50% off (up to a maximum value of $100) an additional piece of equipment.
The Broadview Internet Special includes the following security system equipment
- Standard Keypad
- Two Door or Window Sensors
- Motion Detector
- Interior Siren
- Master Control Panel
- Broadview Security Yard Sign and Window Decals
The fine print to getting the Broadview Security deal
Let's be realistic here. You can't expect to get free alarm system equipment, cheap installation,
and 24-hour security monitoring in your home without some sort of financial commitment on your
part. Here are some of the main restrictions that you will need to adhere to in order to
get this deal.
- There is a three-year minimum monitoring agreement required at the Broadview Security
current rate of at least $31.99 a month (may be higher in some states)
- The offer requires enrollment in EasyPay auto-payment (this is Broadview's system that automatically deducts your monthly monitoring fee against a credit card or checking account)
- Taxes and permit fees are not included
- Standard phone line may be required (hint: if you dont have a landline, think twice)
- Home ownership and credit approval required
A Broadview Security contract will automatically renew after 3 years
When you sign up with Broadview, you are making a 3-year monitoring commitment. What that means
is that you will be responsible for paying the monthly monitoring fee every month for 3 years.
Our research has found that most customers who decide not to renew their Broadview contract
after 3 years have passed get very upset when they realize that Broadview automatically
renews it for 1 year without any customer communication. Again, this situation goes back to
the fine print of the contract which requires written notice of cancellation by the customer
several months before the contract completion date. We recommend that you setup a reminder
for yourself to send your request for cancellation just in case you dont want to continue monitoring service.
Our analysis of the Broadview Security special offer
Overall this security package is a good deal. However, you really need to carefully analyze your
situation before signing up. Make sure you can afford the monthly cost. If you have no land-line
telephone, or if you are using only a VOIP phone (internet phone), then you should check with
Broadview to be certain that their system will work properly in your home. The $49 up front
installation fee is a good deal and doesn't require mail-in rebates like the ADT system. The Brinks
Company has been around for over 100 years and they started home security system installations in
1983, so at least they are not going to disappear overnight like some smaller security companies.
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