Ever wonder if that security system you hastily installed is actually protecting your family, or just making you feel better? I've been asking myself the same question, which is why I decided to put five different security systems to the test in the same house. What I discovered might surprise you.
Riverview, Florida is booming with its beautiful waterfront views and family-friendly neighborhoods. The community spirit here is palpable, with locals enjoying the outdoor activities and growing restaurant scene. But beneath this idyllic surface lies a concerning reality: property crime rates are 6% higher than the national average, and violent crime is a whopping 16% above the national average.
That's why in 2025, having a properly installed security system isn't just a luxury—it's practically a necessity. After testing multiple systems professionally installed in the same house, I'm ready to cut through the marketing hype and give you the straight facts about what works, what doesn't, and who you should trust with your home's security.
When I talk to homeowners about security, they often focus solely on price. But here's what I've learned: the cheapest option rarely provides the best protection. The real question should be: what value am I getting for my investment?
A reliable system that actually works when you need it most is worth every penny. After testing multiple systems, I found that spending a bit more upfront for quality equipment and professional installation saves headaches (and potentially heartaches) down the road.
You know what surprised me during my testing? The features homeowners use most aren't the fancy motion sensors or glass break detectors—they're the smart doorbell cameras and garage door controls.
These aren't just security features; they're daily conveniences. Being able to see who's at your door while you're cooking dinner, or double-checking that you closed the garage from your phone while at work—these are the things that make a security system part of your daily life rather than just an emergency backup.
ADT's integration with Google Nest and Vivint's proprietary doorbell cameras are currently the gold standard here. Both systems have intuitive interfaces that make these features actually enjoyable to use.
Let's be real—no security system makes your home impenetrable. What you're really buying is reasonable protection and peace of mind. The best systems also integrate fire safety, carbon monoxide detection, and flood sensors, protecting against more than just break-ins.
During my testing, I found myself sleeping better knowing these systems were actively monitoring not just for intruders, but for life-threatening emergencies like fires too.
Security technology has come a long way in recent years. In 2025, we're seeing AI-powered cameras that can distinguish between a person, pet, or vehicle with remarkable accuracy. Mobile apps have become incredibly intuitive, and integration with other smart home features is seamless.
But here's what hasn't changed: the importance of proper sensor placement, quality equipment, and reliable monitoring. These fundamentals remain as critical today as they were decades ago.
The best systems now combine these timeless principles with cutting-edge technology. For instance, modern door/window sensors are smaller and more reliable than ever, while still performing the same essential function they always have.
This is where things get interesting—and where most homeowners get confused.
ADT operates their own monitoring centers—six of them across the country, all redundant so if one goes down, another takes over seamlessly. But here's what many people don't realize: when you call "ADT," you might actually be talking to SafeStreets, which is an ADT authorized dealer.
What does that mean? SafeStreets sells and installs ADT equipment and services, but they're a separate company operating under strict ADT guidelines. The monitoring still happens through ADT's centers, but the installation and customer service come from SafeStreets.
Vivint takes a different approach. They handle everything in-house—from sales to installation to monitoring. This vertical integration means more consistent service, but sometimes at a premium price. Their focus on smart home integration makes them particularly appealing if you want your security system to be part of a broader connected home ecosystem.
Many local security companies in Riverview are actually authorized dealers for larger brands (often ADT). They must adhere to the same standards and typically use the same equipment, but may offer more personalized service.
Here's an industry secret: many security companies, regardless of the name on the yard sign, use Alarm.com as their backend monitoring platform. ADT is one of the few that maintains their own proprietary monitoring infrastructure.
After watching professional installers work and then attempting some DIY installations myself, I can confidently say this: professional installation is worth every penny, even if you consider yourself tech-savvy.
Professional installers know things you don't. They understand that a motion sensor placed incorrectly can be triggered by heating vents. They know exactly how high to mount cameras to avoid blind spots. They understand which windows are most vulnerable in your specific home layout.
During my testing, I watched professionals place sensors in spots I would never have considered—and they explained how these placements prevent both false alarms and missed intrusions.
The most common mistake DIYers make? Improper sensor placement. I've seen homeowners place door sensors where they can be easily tampered with from outside, or motion detectors that are constantly triggered by pets or sunlight.
Another critical error is underestimating the importance of tamper protection. Professional installers ensure that your system can't be easily disabled by someone cutting wires or removing sensors.
When it comes to your family's safety, this isn't the place to cut corners or learn through trial and error.
After extensive testing and research, here are the best options for Riverview homeowners:
With property crime 6% above the national average and violent crime 16% higher, Riverview earns just a 2 out of 10 on the crime grade scale. These statistics make a compelling case for proper home security.
What's particularly concerning is that both homeowners and the 70.7% of residents who rent face these risks. Renters often believe security systems aren't an option for them, but modern systems like Simplisafe offer flexible, portable solutions that don't require permanent installation.
After living with these systems and dealing with various installers, here's my take: while local companies may offer competitive pricing and a personal touch, the stability and consistency provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint is worth the slightly higher cost for most homeowners.
These national companies have refined their installation processes, their technicians receive standardized training, and their monitoring infrastructure is robust and redundant. When an emergency happens, that reliability becomes priceless.
Don't leave your family's safety to chance or compromise with a DIY approach that might miss critical vulnerabilities. Invest in professional installation from a reputable provider—because when it comes to home security, doing it right the first time is the only option that makes sense.
Riverview has a population of 95,849 and is located in Hillsborough County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $75,385. Median home value is $225,709, and the median rent is $1,461/month. With a median age of 36 years old, 31.2% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 33.7% having an income over $100,000. 51.4% 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.
