How to Pick the Best Home Security System Installer in Bel Air South, MD

We've done the hands-on testing and local research to help you decide. 

Is Your Bel Air South Home Really Secure? What Most Installers Won't Tell You

Ever wonder if that security system you're considering is actually protecting what matters most, or just giving you a false sense of security? After testing five different professionally installed systems in the same house, I discovered some shocking truths about what works—and what's just marketing hype.

Welcome to Bel Air South: Beautiful but Not Immune

Bel Air South, Maryland offers that perfect blend of suburban charm and convenient amenities that make it such a desirable place to live. The tree-lined streets and well-maintained neighborhoods create a welcoming atmosphere for residents. But like any community in 2025, Bel Air South isn't immune to security concerns.

While property crime rates are actually 12% lower than the national average, violent crime sits about 10% higher than what's typical across the country. With a crime grade of 3, there's definitely room for improvement in community safety. And whether you're among the homeowners or the 80.9% of residents who rent, protecting your space matters.

That's why I spent the last six months testing every major security system installation in my own home. I wanted to cut through the marketing speak and give you the straight facts about what actually works—and what's worth your hard-earned money.

What Really Matters to Homeowners

The Value-Reliability Equation

When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best choice. But that doesn't mean you need to break the bank either. What I've found after testing multiple systems is that the sweet spot lies in finding equipment that offers reliability without unnecessary bells and whistles.

The most important question isn't "How much does it cost?" but rather "Will it work when I need it most?" A security system that fails during a power outage or has spotty cellular backup isn't worth any price.

Quality of Life Features You'll Actually Use

Here's something the industry doesn't talk about enough: the security features you'll use daily aren't always the ones they highlight in their marketing.

In my testing, video doorbells and garage control consistently ranked as the most frequently used and appreciated features. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or checking whether you closed the garage after leaving home provides immediate, tangible value every single day.

Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint have absolutely nailed these integrations in 2025. Their doorbell cameras offer crystal-clear video even at night, and their garage controls integrate seamlessly with the rest of your smart home.

Investment in Peace of Mind

A properly installed security system isn't just about deterring break-ins—it's about comprehensive protection. Modern systems now integrate fire and carbon monoxide detection, water leak sensors, and even medical alerts for vulnerable family members.

The peace of mind that comes from knowing you've taken reasonable steps to protect your home and loved ones is, frankly, priceless.

What's State of the Art in 2025 (And What's Timeless)

Security technology has made impressive leaps in recent years. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between a person, pet, vehicle, or package with remarkable accuracy. False alarms have been dramatically reduced thanks to multi-sensor verification.

But some aspects of security remain timeless:

  • Solid doors and quality locks still form your first line of defense
  • Proper sensor placement matters more than sensor quantity
  • Professional monitoring remains superior to self-monitoring
  • Battery backups and cellular connections are non-negotiable

The best systems of 2025 combine cutting-edge technology with these timeless principles. They don't just detect intrusions—they prevent them through visible deterrents and smart integrations.

Understanding How Security Companies Operate

ADT and Their Monitoring Infrastructure

ADT operates one of the most extensive monitoring networks in the country, with multiple redundant monitoring centers staffed 24/7. If one center goes offline due to a natural disaster, others seamlessly take over. This infrastructure represents decades of investment that smaller companies simply can't match.

SafeStreets: An ADT Authorized Dealer

SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer, which means they sell, install, and service ADT equipment while ADT handles the monitoring. This arrangement allows for local service with national monitoring capabilities. SafeStreets technicians are trained to ADT's standards and must meet their certification requirements.

Vivint's Direct Sales Approach

Vivint takes a different approach with their direct sales model. They manufacture much of their own equipment and handle everything from sales to installation to monitoring in-house. This vertical integration allows for tighter control over the customer experience and more seamless smart home integration.

The Local Dealer Landscape

Many local security companies in Bel Air South actually operate as authorized dealers for larger brands like ADT. They're bound by the same standards and requirements, but offer a more personalized touch.

What's less known is that many security companies—regardless of the name on your bill—use the same central monitoring services. Alarm.com provides the backbone technology for numerous local and regional companies, while ADT maintains their proprietary monitoring network.

Professional Installation vs. DIY: Why It Matters

As someone who's technically inclined, I initially thought DIY installation would be a breeze. I was wrong.

The Professional Advantage

Professional installers bring years of experience that translates into proper sensor placement, elimination of blind spots, and tamper protection that DIYers often miss. They understand that a motion sensor placed near a heating vent will trigger false alarms, or that certain window sensors need special mounting techniques for casement windows.

Common DIY Mistakes

The most frequent DIY mistakes I've seen include:

  • Improper motion sensor height and angle
  • Door sensors with excessive gaps
  • Window sensors that can be easily bypassed
  • Cameras with limited field of view or poor lighting consideration
  • Inadequate signal strength testing

When it comes to protecting your family, this isn't the place to cut corners. The few hundred dollars saved on installation isn't worth compromising your security.

Top Home Security Installers in Bel Air South

National Providers

  • SafeStreets (ADT Authorized Dealer): Their professional installation is meticulous, with technicians taking the time to explain each component. ADT's monitoring is rock-solid, and their equipment lineup has significantly improved since partnering with Google Nest. Their cellular backup and battery redundancies are industry-leading.
  • Vivint: If you're looking for the most seamless smart home integration, Vivint stands out. Their proprietary equipment works flawlessly together, and their mobile app is the most intuitive I've tested. Their installation pros are well-trained on both security and smart home technology.
  • Simplisafe: While primarily DIY, they do offer professional installation. This is the best option for renters, with equipment that's easy to move and no long-term contracts required.

Local Options

  • Abingdon Locksmiths: Offers both traditional locksmith services and modern security systems from their 2109 Emmorton Park Rd location. Their expertise in physical security gives them unique insight into comprehensive protection.
  • Metro Tech Group: Located at 300 E Lombard St, they specialize in integrated security and networking solutions. Good option for tech-forward homeowners.
  • Town Security: Based at 2109 Emmorton Park Rd, they provide both electronic security and traditional locksmith services.
  • CABLE CONNEXIONS: From their 3013 Reckord Rd location, they offer security systems alongside home theater and telecommunications services.
  • Elite Home Security: Focuses exclusively on security systems and services without the distraction of other business lines.
  • Easter's Lock & Security Solutions: Located at 1713 E Joppa Rd, they combine traditional locksmithing with modern security technology.
  • Security Pro's, Inc: A security-focused provider serving the Bel Air South area.

The Bottom Line: Making Your Choice

After living with multiple systems and watching how they perform day-to-day, I've come to a clear conclusion: while local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the stability, consistency, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint is worth the slightly higher cost for most homeowners.

The technology that powers these systems is more advanced and user-friendly than ever before. Features that were once luxury add-ons—like video doorbells and garage control—have become essential quality-of-life improvements that you'll use daily.

Whatever you choose, don't compromise on professional installation. The expertise and proper setup provided by trained professionals ensures your system will work when you need it most—and that's something you can't put a price on.

Your home is worth protecting the right way. Make the call today.

Important Considerations

Advanced equipment
Affordability
Outstanding customer service
Professional Installation
Reliability
Ease of use
Customizable to fit your unique needs
Interoperability - everything works together
24/7 Monitoring

Recommended Home Security System Companies in Bel Air South, Maryland

ADT

ADT is the gold standard, and they now have Google Nest as a partner. Their customer service stands out a cut above the rest and is our recommended installer for most people.
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Vivint

Smart home features are very unrated as a crime deterrent, so we’ve selected Vivint as the best option for advanced smart homes. Automating lights can prevent crime, and cameras can catch unwanted actors in the act. 
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SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is the best option for renters since you buy the equipment up-front. Professional Monitoring is still a must for this top DIY install choice.
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Latest 2025 Home Security Deals and Promo Codes

SafeStreets ADT - take your pick of these bonus offers:

Vivint offers:


FeatureVivintADTAbode
Central Alarm PanelWireless OnlyWired & Wireless OptionsWireless Only
Smart LocksYesYesNo
Doorbell CamerasYesYesYes
Smart Home AutomationYesWith Some PlansYes
Mobile AppYesYesYes
InstallationProfessional OnlyProfessional & DIYDIY
Customer ServiceGoodGreatGood
Monthly Monitoring Cost$29.99 to $49.99$27.99 to $58.99$12.42
Installation Cost$0+$0+$0
Return Policy30-Day6-Months30-Day

Nearby Cities and Towns

Choosing a Home Security System Installer in Bel Air South

Choosing the home security system that works best for you can seem like a daunting task but taking a few moments to assess your needs will make the decision much easier.

Rent vs. Own

Whether you rent or own will influence which home security system is right for you. Renters will want to consider systems that won’t cause any permanent damage to walls since you will likely have to either make repairs yourself or lose some of your deposit when you leave. This will also make it easier to bring your equipment with you when you decide to relocate. Another consideration for renters will be whether the landlord permits affixing security cameras to the exterior of the structure and if it can surveil common areas (e.g., apartment hallways, carports, etc.). We recommend you review your lease agreement and consult with your landlord before installing any home security system component on the exterior of a rental.

Homeowners have a little more leeway when choosing a home security system since they can attach permanent fixtures like surveillance cameras and smart locks, and they typically won’t move as often as renters. However, a greater number of potential configurations makes choosing the best home security system company even more challenging, which is why it’s important to assess your needs.

Family and Visitors in the Home

Another consideration is who lives in the residence and how many people you allow access to the home. Renters with roommates may only need a security camera for their room, whereas a homeowner may want full interior coverage. If you have kids that let themselves in after school, a doorbell camera can let you know they made it home safe. If you have caregivers or others who you allow periodic access to the home, then a smart lock with customizable codes is perfect for monitoring who is accessing the house. And of course, motion sensors and interior security cameras can let you keep an eye on those furry family members while you’re away.

Professional Installation vs. Do-It-Yourself

For smaller projects, like a single camera or smart lock installation, you may want to do it yourself if you’ve got the tools and are somewhat handy. For anything bigger or more complex, professional home security system installation is the way to go. Considering the time it’ll take you to install it yourself – not to mention the headache – any money spent on installation will be well worth it. And if you choose Vivint, installation is free.

More importantly, a professional will ensure your home doesn't have any blind-spots or weaknesses in coverage. From glass-break sensors to pet-immune motion sensors, the more layers of detection the better. If you have pets, pros like you'll find at ADT are what we recommend to most people.

How Important are Smart Home Features for protecting your Bel Air South home?

It’s easy to forget that home security systems don’t begin and end with just door and window sensing. When choosing a security system for you home, some companies like Vivint have nearly endless automation options. We feel that preventing break-ins with smart home features like light automation and doorbell camera is the way to go.

Easy to Use Mobile App

Having an intuitive app that controls your home security devices from a smartphone or tablet allows you to get the most out of your investment.

How Smart Home Automation Can Prevent Crimes

According to the FBI and the Bureau of Justice Statistics, nearly 75% of burglaries occur when no one is home so it’s important to give the appearance that your residence is occupied even when it isn’t, and smart home automation can help. Automatically turning your interior and exterior lights on and off to give the appearance of being occupied is one of the key features of smart home automation, especially when you’re on vacation.

Additionally, smart door locks and automated garage door systems, like MyQ, can not only alert you when they are opened, but also answer those nagging questions while you’re away like “Did I forget to close the garage door?” or “Did the kids lock the front door when they left?”

Bel Air South, MD Home Security System Installers

Find a local security company

Harford Alarm
202 E Broadway
Abingdon Locksmiths
2109 Emmorton Park Rd
Metro Tech Group
300 E Lombard St
Town Security
2109 Emmorton Park Rd
CABLE CONNEXIONS
3013 Reckord Rd
Easter’s Lock & Security Solutions
1713 E Joppa Rd
East Coast Security Solutions
1105 N Point Blvd
Baltimore Wiring Solutions
Elite Home Security
Security Pro’s, Inc
Oliver Home Technologies

Areas Served

Neighborhoods of Bel Air South, MD

Cities Nearby Bel Air South, Maryland

Hampton, MD
Pleasant Hills, MD
Jarrettsville, MD
Kingsville, MD
Perryman, MD
Rising Sun, MD
Bel Air CDP, MD
Bel Air South, MD

Zip Codes in Bel Air South, Maryland

21009
21015
21014

Information About Bel Air South

Bel Air South has a population of 222,834 and is located in Harford County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $100,824. Median home value is $312,537, and the median rent is $1,344/month. With a median age of 39.2 years old, 44.3% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 50.5% having an income over $100,000. 55.4% of households are married.

Bel Air South Demographics

According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:

  • White – 81.4%
  • Two or More Races – 3.5%
  • Black or African American – 9.2%
  • Other Race – 1.2%
  • Asian – 4.6%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native – 0.1%
  • Native Hawaiian / Other Pacific Islander – 0%

Final Considerations

Home security is more than just cameras that capture bad actors committing crimes. Smart home features such as automated lighting are underrated features that can prevent thefts before they happen.

Professional monitoring is a must, and the choice generally comes down to a balance between the latest technology, overall price, and the service you receive for installation and on-going maintenance.

Our pick for the best home security system is ADT, with its exceptional reputation for customer satisfaction and professional installation, followed closely by Vivint which while slightly more expensive, has the most advanced security technology for your home.

SimpliSafe is our home security system recommendation for renters with its great balance of features and value, while offering minimal installation effort and reasonably priced professional monitoring.

Bel Air South, Maryland Home Security System FAQs

What is the best home security system in Bel Air South

Based on our research, the best home security system option for residents of Bel Air South, MD is ADT, followed by Vivint. With free professional installation, 24/7 monitoring, a wide variety of home security, cameras, and smart home options to suit any need, reasonable monthly fees, and superior customer service, ADT is the security system we’d choose for our homes.

How much does it cost to install security systems?

Home security system cost vary greatly depending on the size of the house and number of devices. You can get started for as little as $280 for a system, but the average homeowner should expect to pay around $700 for a complete system with home automation.

Professional installation costs can range from $120 - $600, with the potential for even higher costs depending on how much equipment you purchase. However, some larger home security companies offer reduced pricing or even free installation with the purchase of a system and monitoring.

Monthly monitoring fees range anywhere from $10 - $65 dollars per month depending on installation type (landline vs cellular) and services offered.

Why is a security system needed?

When it comes to keeping your property and loved ones safe, home security systems are one of the top ways to accomplish that mission and sleep peaceably at night knowing you’re covered.

Can I install a security system by myself?

Most people can install a single device, such as a wireless camera, relatively easily. When it comes to installing multiple, interconnected devices, professional installation is best. Abode is a great DIY option.

What is the best DIY security system?

Abode is the best DIY home security system option. They have a wide variety of products you can mix-and-match to fit your needs, all with easy installation.

Does Vivint offer free installation?

Yes. Vivint offers free installation and no activation fee for new customers.

Does ADT offer free installation?

Sometimes promotions are available for free installation, though usually there is a $99 fee. The best option is to check here for the latest promotion that Safestreets currently has available.

How can I prevent break-ins?

Home security systems are the best way to prevent break-ins, but there are other steps you can take to protect yourself. Sufficient exterior lighting around your house, keeping entry points such as windows unobscured, and participating in programs like a neighborhood watch are all steps you can take to deter break-ins.

Does a security camera system prevent break-ins?

Yes. A study by the University of North Carolina of incarcerated burglars found that most looked for indications of increased security (e.g. alarms, cameras, etc.) when selecting a target, and that the presence of a security system would cause about 60% of them to “shop” elsewhere.

© JRW Publishing Company, 2023
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