Have you ever wondered if that security system you're considering would actually stop a determined intruder? Or if those fancy sensors would still work during an Iowa power outage when you need them most?
Des Moines has long been celebrated as one of the Midwest's most livable cities, with its vibrant downtown, excellent schools, and that perfect balance of urban amenities and neighborhood charm. But behind this idyllic facade lies a concerning reality: property crime rates that significantly exceed national averages.
As someone who's personally tested and lived with five different professionally installed security systems in the same house, I've seen firsthand how the right setup can make all the difference—and how the wrong one can give you a false sense of security. In 2025, the technology is more impressive than ever, but cutting through the marketing hype to find what actually works? That's where I come in.
Let's dive into what you really need to know before choosing a home security installer in Des Moines.
When it comes to home security, I've found that most homeowners care about three core things:
Value-to-reliability relationship: You don't necessarily need the most expensive system, but you do need one that works when it matters most. The sweet spot is finding a system that offers dependable protection without unnecessary bells and whistles that drive up costs.
Quality of life features: The features homeowners actually use daily matter most. In my testing, video doorbells and garage control consistently rank as the most-used and appreciated smart security features. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or checking whether you closed the garage after leaving provides practical peace of mind. Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint excel in these areas with intuitive interfaces that even the least tech-savvy family members can master.
Investment in peace of mind: A good security system isn't just about deterring break-ins—it's about comprehensive protection. This includes fire safety monitoring, carbon monoxide detection, and medical alerts for vulnerable family members. The most valuable systems provide layered protection against multiple threats.
Security technology has evolved dramatically, but some principles remain constant.
Today's cutting-edge systems feature AI-powered cameras that can distinguish between people, pets, and vehicles—virtually eliminating false alarms. Facial recognition can identify family members versus strangers. Integration with smart home platforms has become seamless, allowing voice commands to arm systems or check status.
But the timeless elements remain crucial: proper sensor placement, backup power systems, and tamper-resistant components. A system with the latest tech but poor installation fundamentals will fail when you need it most.
The best installers in 2025 combine both—leveraging advanced technology while respecting security fundamentals that never change.
Before choosing an installer, understanding the industry structure helps immensely:
ADT operates with a nationwide network of monitoring centers that provide 24/7 protection. When an alarm triggers, these centers verify the emergency and dispatch appropriate responders. Their size provides redundancy—if one center goes offline, others take over seamlessly.
SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer, meaning they sell, install, and service ADT equipment and monitoring plans. They must meet ADT's standards and training requirements, but operate as an independent business. Your contract is ultimately with ADT for monitoring services.
Vivint uses a direct sales model, employing their own installation technicians rather than authorized dealers. This gives them tighter control over installation quality and customer experience. Their systems emphasize smart home integration, with proprietary equipment designed to work together seamlessly.
Local dealers in Des Moines often operate as authorized dealers for larger companies like ADT. They follow the same installation standards but may offer more personalized service or local promotions.
An industry secret: many security companies, regardless of brand name, use the same central monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers many local and regional providers, while ADT uses their proprietary monitoring network. The actual response protocols are often quite similar across companies.
As someone who's technically inclined, I initially thought DIY installation would be sufficient. I was wrong.
Professional installers bring expertise that goes beyond following instructions. They understand:
Common DIY mistakes I've seen include placing motion sensors too high (creating "crawl zones" where intruders can avoid detection), mounting door sensors improperly (allowing doors to open partially without triggering), and failing to secure wireless components from tampering.
When it comes to protecting your family, the modest cost difference for professional installation pays dividends in actual security effectiveness.
The statistics are sobering: property crime in Des Moines is 99% higher than the national average, while violent crime exceeds national figures by 82%. The city currently has a crime grade of 0—the lowest possible rating.
These numbers matter for both the 40.4% who own homes and the 59.6% who rent. Security systems provide not just protection for property, but personal safety for all residents.
After testing numerous systems and speaking with homeowners across Des Moines, I've found that while local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the consistency and reliability of established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint provide unmatched peace of mind.
The slightly higher cost typically delivers better equipment, more consistent installation quality, and monitoring centers with redundant systems that never go offline. When an alarm triggers at 3 AM, that reliability difference becomes priceless.
Whatever you choose, prioritize professional installation. The security of your home and loved ones isn't the place to cut corners or learn through trial and error. The best systems combine today's smart technology with timeless security principles—and proper installation is what brings them together.
Des Moines has a population of 519,180 and is located in Polk County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $54,843. Median home value is $140,816, and the median rent is $881/month. With a median age of 34 years old, 28% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 20.9% having an income over $100,000. 39.6% of households are married.
According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:
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.
