How to Pick the Best Home Security System Installer in Lansing, MI

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

Is Your Lansing Home Really Secure, or Just Giving You a False Sense of Safety?

Ever wonder if that security system you hastily installed is actually protecting your family, or if it's just a fancy doorbell with some stickers? After testing five different professionally installed security systems in the same house, I've got some eye-opening insights to share.

The Lansing Security Landscape in 2025

Lansing, with its charming riverfront and vibrant downtown revival, remains one of Michigan's most distinctive communities. But behind the revitalized neighborhoods and growing cultural scene lies a concerning reality: security challenges that many residents face daily.

The numbers tell a sobering story. Property crime rates in Lansing are currently 53% higher than the national average, while violent crime rates soar at a staggering 269% above the national average. With a crime grade of 0, Lansing residents—both the 48.5% who own homes and the 51.5% who rent—need effective security solutions more than ever.

Having personally tested multiple security systems in our Lansing test facility, I've seen firsthand how the right setup can make all the difference. Let's cut through the marketing hype and get to what really matters for your home's security.

What Really Matters to Lansing Homeowners

The Value-Reliability Equation

When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best choice. However, the most expensive system isn't automatically superior either. What matters is finding that sweet spot where reliability meets reasonable cost.

In our extensive testing, we found that systems in the $30-50 monthly monitoring range typically offer the best balance. Below that price point, you often sacrifice crucial features or reliability; above it, you're paying for bells and whistles that don't meaningfully improve security.

Quality of Life Features That Matter Most

Here's something interesting we discovered: the security features homeowners actually use daily aren't always the ones they initially thought were most important.

Video doorbells and garage door controls consistently rank as the most frequently used and appreciated smart security features. In 2025, these aren't luxury add-ons anymore—they're essentials. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or checking whether you remembered to close the garage after leaving for work provides practical, everyday peace of mind.

Our testing found that ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint offer the most seamless, reliable implementations of these features.

Peace of Mind: The Real Investment

When you install a security system, you're not just buying equipment—you're investing in peace of mind. The psychological benefit of knowing you've taken reasonable steps to protect your family is immeasurable.

And don't forget: comprehensive home security isn't just about preventing break-ins. Modern systems integrate fire and carbon monoxide detection, potentially saving lives in emergencies that have nothing to do with intruders.

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

Security technology has evolved dramatically, with 2025 bringing us systems that are more intuitive and integrated than ever before. Today's cutting-edge features include:

  • AI-powered cameras that can distinguish between people, pets, vehicles, and packages
  • Seamless voice control integration with all major platforms
  • Environmental monitoring that detects water leaks, extreme temperatures, and air quality issues
  • Fully encrypted wireless communications resistant to jamming or hacking

However, some aspects of security remain timeless. Proper sensor placement, backup power systems, and redundant communication methods (cellular, Wi-Fi, and landline) are as important now as they were decades ago.

Understanding How Security Companies Operate

ADT and Its Authorized Dealers

ADT operates six owned-and-operated monitoring centers across North America, providing redundancy that ensures your system stays connected even if one center experiences issues. They employ thousands of trained monitoring professionals who respond to alerts 24/7.

SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer, which means they sell, install, and service ADT equipment and monitoring plans. They must meet ADT's strict standards for installation quality and customer service. When you sign up with SafeStreets, your contract and monitoring are ultimately with ADT.

Vivint's Direct Approach

Vivint takes a different approach. As a vertically integrated company, they design their own equipment, employ their own installers, and operate their own monitoring centers. This gives them tighter control over the entire customer experience but sometimes at a premium price point.

Their direct sales model means you're dealing with Vivint representatives from start to finish, not third-party dealers.

The Monitoring Landscape

Here's an industry secret: many local security companies don't actually do their own monitoring. Instead, they contract with large monitoring centers like Alarm.com, which provides the backend for numerous local and regional security providers.

ADT stands apart by operating their own monitoring infrastructure, giving them more direct control over service quality and response times.

Professional Installation vs. DIY: Why It Matters

After watching professional installers work and attempting DIY installations ourselves, I can confidently say: professional installation is worth every penny, even if you consider yourself tech-savvy.

The Professional Edge

Professional installers bring years of experience that translates into crucial decisions about:

  • Optimal sensor placement that accounts for pets, airflow patterns, and potential false alarm triggers
  • Proper positioning of motion detectors to eliminate blind spots
  • Strategic camera placement that maximizes coverage while minimizing privacy concerns
  • Tamper protection measures that amateur installers often overlook

Common DIY Mistakes

When homeowners install systems themselves, we frequently see:

  • Motion sensors placed where sunlight, heating vents, or pets trigger false alarms
  • Door/window sensors installed with improper spacing that leads to connection failures
  • Cameras positioned with backlighting that renders footage useless
  • Inadequate consideration of power backup systems

When it comes to protecting your family, this isn't the place to cut corners or learn through trial and error.

Top Home Security Installers in Lansing

Based on our extensive testing and research, here are the best security installation options in Lansing:

  • SafeStreets - As ADT's premier authorized dealer in the region, they offer rock-solid reliability, professional installation, and the backing of ADT's extensive monitoring network. Their integration with Google Nest products provides excellent smart home functionality.
  • Vivint - For those prioritizing cutting-edge smart home integration, Vivint offers the most seamless experience. Their proprietary equipment is sleek and intuitive, though it comes at a premium price point.
  • Simplisafe - The best option for renters, offering flexible, no-contract monitoring and easy-to-move equipment. While not as feature-rich as the others, it provides essential security without long-term commitments.

Local Lansing Options:

  • Hack's Key Security & Door - Specializes in locks and physical security but offers limited electronic security options.
  • XFINITY - Convenient for existing Xfinity customers, but security offerings are secondary to their core business.
  • Safeguard Security Solutions - Offers decent home automation integration but has limited local installation capacity.
  • Legacy Solutions - Good for combined security and home theater installations.
  • Citizens Statewide Security - Provides basic security systems with moderate customization options.
  • Secure Lock & Door - Focuses primarily on physical security rather than electronic monitoring.

The Bottom Line: Making Your Choice

While local companies may offer competitive pricing—sometimes undercutting national providers by $5-10 per month—the stability, consistency, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint typically justify the slightly higher cost.

When you consider what's at stake—the safety of your family and home—investing in professional installation from a company with proven reliability makes sense. Remember, a security system is only as good as its installation and monitoring.

Don't wait until after an incident to discover the weaknesses in your home's security. Contact a professional installer today to get a proper assessment of your home's unique security needs. Your family's safety is worth the investment.

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 Lansing, Michigan

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 Lansing

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 Lansing 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?”

Lansing, MI Local Security Installers

Choosing between a nationwide home security system company and a smaller, local one can be a tough choice for some people. Here are the pros and cons to each:

Nationwide companies:

  • Pros:
    • Lower prices due to higher volume of business
    • Wider range of available equipment
    • More established / more likely to be in business for the long-term
  • Cons:
    • Potential for impersonal service
    • Longer-term contracts

Local companies:

  • Pros:
    • Supports local economy
    • May be more familiar with your area’s needs
  • Cons:
    • Smaller staff can cause delayed installation
    • Higher pricing
    • May not be in business long-term

We recommend the national installers Vivint for it's class leading technology and ADT for superior customer service and all around value.

Lansing, MI Home Security System Installers

Find a local security company

Hack’s Key Security & Door
1109 River St
Safeguard Security Solutions
1166 E Big Beaver Rd
Legacy Solutions
440 Burroughs St
Citizens Statewide Security
2069 Professional Dr
Secure Lock & Door
1124 Burcham Dr
The Computer Healer
1115 Nautical Dr
Wescomm Technologies
400 Renaissance Ctr
Custom Design Security & Sound
31411 W Eight Mile Rd
XFINITY

Areas Served

Neighborhoods of Lansing, MI

Cities Nearby Lansing, Michigan

Wacousta, MI
Dimondale, MI
Bath, MI
Williamston, MI
Potterville, MI
Edgemont Park, MI
Mason, MI
Lansing, MI

Zip Codes in Lansing, Michigan

48912
48933
48915
48911
48910
48906

Information About Lansing

Lansing has a population of 326,380 and is located in Ingham County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $44,233. Median home value is $88,010, and the median rent is $847/month. With a median age of 32.7 years old, 26.3% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 11.3% having an income over $100,000. 34.2% of households are married.

Lansing Demographics

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

  • White – 60.9%
  • Two or More Races – 8.1%
  • Black or African American – 23.4%
  • Other Race – 2.2%
  • Asian – 4.7%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native – 0.7%
  • 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.

Lansing, Michigan Home Security System FAQs

What is the best home security system in Lansing

Based on our research, the best home security system option for residents of Lansing, MI 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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