How to Pick the Best Home Security System Installer in Coeur d'Alene, ID

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

Is Your Home Really Secure? What Coeur d'Alene Homeowners Need to Know About Security System Installation

Have you ever wondered if that security system you're considering is actually going to protect your family when it matters most? Or if the installer you choose knows what they're doing? As someone who's had five different security systems professionally installed in the same house (yes, my neighbors think I'm weird), I've learned there's a massive difference between a properly installed system and one that just looks good on paper.

The Gem of Idaho Deserves the Best Protection

Nestled against the stunning backdrop of Lake Coeur d'Alene, this Idaho gem offers residents an incredible quality of life with its outdoor recreation and tight-knit community feel. But even in this beautiful corner of the Northwest, security concerns remain.

While Coeur d'Alene enjoys property crime rates about 20% lower than the national average, violent crime sits at 1% above average, giving the city an overall crime grade of 5. These statistics highlight why both homeowners and the 54.1% of residents who rent should take home security seriously.

After spending the last year testing every major security system in our test facility (and driving my family crazy with constant equipment swaps), I'm here to cut through the marketing hype and give you the real scoop on what matters for Coeur d'Alene homes in 2025.

What Really Matters to Homeowners

The Value-Reliability Relationship

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. The sweet spot is finding a system that offers reliability at a reasonable price point.

Think of it like buying tires for your car. You could go with the ultra-budget option, but do you really want to risk a blowout on that winding stretch of Northwest Boulevard? Similarly, with security systems, reliability is where the real value lies.

Quality of Life Features You'll Actually Use

Here's something the security companies don't always emphasize: the features you'll use daily aren't always the ones they highlight in their sales pitches.

In our testing, two features consistently proved most valuable:

  • Video doorbells: You'll use this almost daily for package deliveries, visitors, and just checking what's happening outside.
  • Garage door control: The ability to check if you left the garage open from anywhere (and close it remotely) is surprisingly life-changing.

Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint have absolutely nailed these features in their 2025 offerings. The integration is seamless, and the user experience is miles ahead of where things were even a few years ago.

Peace of Mind Investment

Security isn't just about preventing break-ins—it's about comprehensive protection. The best systems now integrate fire and carbon monoxide detection alongside intrusion protection. This holistic approach means you're not just protecting against criminals but also against environmental dangers that can be equally devastating.

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

Security technology has made impressive leaps forward in 2025. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between a person, pet, vehicle, or package with near-perfect accuracy. False alarms have plummeted thanks to multi-sensor verification systems.

But some aspects of security remain timeless:

  • Proper sensor placement
  • Backup communication methods
  • Professional monitoring

The best installers know how to blend cutting-edge technology with these timeless principles. They'll place motion sensors at optimal angles, ensure your system has cellular backup if your internet goes down, and connect you to monitoring centers that respond within seconds, not minutes.

Understanding How Security Companies Operate

ADT and SafeStreets: The Authorized Dealer Model

ADT operates through a network of authorized dealers, with SafeStreets being one of the largest. Here's what this means for you: SafeStreets handles the sales and installation, but your monitoring service comes directly from ADT's six monitoring centers spread across the country.

This arrangement ensures you get professional installation from a local team while benefiting from ADT's massive monitoring infrastructure (which handles over 15 million signals daily). If your alarm triggers, it's ADT's monitoring professionals who respond.

Vivint: The Direct Sales Approach

Vivint takes a different approach. They handle everything in-house—from sales to installation to monitoring. This vertical integration allows them to control the entire customer experience and has made them leaders in smart home integration.

Their systems are particularly impressive for tech-savvy homeowners who want their security system to be the backbone of their smart home. Their 2025 lineup features some of the most intuitive interfaces I've tested.

The Monitoring Backbone: Alarm.com

Here's an industry secret: many local security dealers use the same backend platform—Alarm.com. This platform powers the apps and monitoring capabilities for thousands of local security companies nationwide.

This isn't necessarily bad—Alarm.com is excellent—but it explains why many local companies offer similar features. The real differentiator becomes installation quality and customer service.

Professional Installation vs. DIY: Why the Pros Win

As someone who reviews tech for a living, I'm usually the first to encourage DIY approaches. But home security is one area where I strongly recommend professional installation. Here's why:

The Tricks of the Trade

Professional installers know things most homeowners don't:

  • How to position motion sensors to avoid false alarms from pets while still catching intruders
  • Where to place glass break sensors for optimal coverage
  • How to properly secure door sensors so they can't be easily tampered with

I've watched professionals install systems in the same room five different ways based on the specific layout, furniture, and windows—considerations most DIYers wouldn't even think about.

Common DIY Mistakes

The most common DIY mistakes I've seen include:

  • Placing motion sensors where sunlight can trigger false alarms
  • Installing door sensors improperly, creating gaps in coverage
  • Failing to secure the main panel in a protected location
  • Neglecting to test cellular backup systems

When it comes to your family's safety, these aren't mistakes worth making to save a few hundred dollars.

Top Home Security Installers in Coeur d'Alene

National Providers

  • SafeStreets: As ADT's authorized dealer, they bring the reliability of America's oldest security company with modern equipment. Their installation teams are thoroughly trained, and their integration with Google Nest products provides excellent quality-of-life features.
  • Vivint: Their cutting-edge smart home technology makes them stand out. Their 2025 systems feature the most intuitive touchscreen panels I've tested, and their outdoor cameras with built-in deterrence features are impressive. Installation is meticulous and thorough.
  • SimpliSafe: While primarily a DIY option, they do offer professional installation. They're the best option for renters due to their non-invasive installation methods and no long-term contracts.

Local Installers

  • SWAT Audio & Video (18067 N Ramsey Rd): Specializes in home theater installation alongside security and home automation.
  • Drew Darrow Multimedia (2787 W Thorndale Loop): Offers TV mounting services along with security system installation.
  • Sierra Security (7680 N Government Way): Focuses exclusively on security services.
  • Advanced Electric & Alarm Systems (11401 E Montgomery Dr): Combines electrical expertise with security and home automation.
  • Take One Systems: Provides integrated security, home automation, and home theater solutions.
  • Evergreen Security (28544 N Old Hwy 41): Offers comprehensive security and smart home packages.
  • Net Construct CDA: Specializes in security systems and home theater installation.

The Bottom Line: National vs. Local

While local companies often offer competitive pricing and the appeal of supporting local businesses, there's something to be said for the stability and consistency of established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint.

These companies have invested millions in their monitoring infrastructure, training programs, and technology development. When your 3 AM alarm goes off, that investment translates to faster response times and more reliable service.

In my experience testing systems across the country, the slightly higher cost of national providers typically pays for itself in reliability and peace of mind. That said, several local Coeur d'Alene installers have excellent reputations and may be worth considering for specific needs.

Whatever you choose, make professional installation a priority. The security of your home isn't the place to cut corners or test your DIY skills. Your family deserves the protection that comes from having your system installed correctly the first time.

Have you had experiences with security system installation in Coeur d'Alene? I'd love to hear about them in the comments below!

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 Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

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

Choosing a Home Security System Installer in Coeur d'Alene

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 Coeur d'Alene 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?”

Coeur d'Alene, ID Home Security System Installers

Find a local security company

Inland Alarm
921 E 3rd Ave
SWAT Audio & Video
18067 N Ramsey Rd
Drew Darrow Multimedia
2787 W Thorndale Loop
Sierra Security
7680 N Government Way
Advanced Electric & Alarm Systems
11401 E Montgomery Dr
Evergreen Security
28544 N Old Hwy 41
Country Lock & Key
1421 E 3rd Ave
Take One Systems
Net Construct CDA
Matrix Security
Media Controlled

Areas Served

Neighborhoods of Coeur d'Alene, ID

Cities Nearby Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Dalton Gardens, ID
Fernan Lake Village, ID
Rockford Bay, ID
Hayden Lake, ID
Rathdrum, ID
Liberty Lake, WA
Hayden, ID
Coeur d'Alene, ID

Zip Codes in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

83815
83814

Information About Coeur d'Alene

Coeur d'Alene has a population of 114,880 and is located in Kootenai County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $54,763. Median home value is $280,426, and the median rent is $1,037/month. With a median age of 37.3 years old, 27.7% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 20.5% having an income over $100,000. 49% of households are married.

Coeur d'Alene Demographics

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

  • White – 90.6%
  • Two or More Races – 4.2%
  • Black or African American – 0.4%
  • Other Race – 2%
  • Asian – 1.3%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native – 1.5%
  • 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.

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Home Security System FAQs

What is the best home security system in Coeur d'Alene

Based on our research, the best home security system option for residents of Coeur d'Alene, ID 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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