How to Pick the Best Home Security System Installer in San Bernardino, CA

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

Is Your San Bernardino Home Really Secure? What Professional Installers Know That You Don't

Have you ever wondered if the security measures you've taken for your home are actually effective, or just giving you a false sense of security? The answer might surprise you – and it could be the difference between a deterred intruder and a successful break-in.

San Bernardino: Beautiful Views, Concerning Statistics

San Bernardino offers residents stunning mountain vistas and a vibrant community with rich cultural diversity. But beneath this appealing exterior lies a concerning reality: property crime rates 43% above the national average and violent crime rates a staggering 261% higher than the national average. In 2025, these statistics make home security not just a luxury, but a necessity.

I've spent the last year testing professional security installations in our test house – yes, we had five different systems professionally installed in the same property. Why? To cut through the marketing hype and give you the unfiltered truth about what works, what doesn't, and what you actually need to keep your family safe. Let me share what I've learned.

What Really Matters to San Bernardino Homeowners

The Value-Reliability Equation

After countless conversations with homeowners and security professionals, I've found that reliability trumps fancy features every time. A system that works consistently without false alarms is worth far more than one with bells and whistles that fails when you need it most.

The sweet spot is finding a system that offers dependable protection at a reasonable price point. National providers like SafeStreets (ADT's authorized dealer) and Vivint have proven track records, while some local installers can offer comparable reliability with more personalized service.

Quality of Life Features You'll Actually Use

Here's something I didn't expect to discover: the features homeowners use most aren't always the ones marketed heaviest. Based on our testing, video doorbells and garage control consistently rank as the most-used and most-valued features.

In 2025, these aren't just conveniences – they're essential. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or confirming your garage is closed while at work provides tangible daily peace of mind. Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint have perfected these integrations, making them seamless and intuitive.

Investment in Peace of Mind

Security isn't just about preventing break-ins – it's about comprehensive protection. The best systems now integrate fire safety, carbon monoxide detection, and even water leak monitoring. This holistic approach means you're protected from multiple threats, not just intruders.

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

The security landscape has evolved dramatically. Today's systems feature AI-powered cameras that can distinguish between people, pets, and vehicles, dramatically reducing false alarms. Mobile apps have become incredibly intuitive, allowing granular control over your entire system.

However, some aspects of security remain timeless: strategic sensor placement, backup power systems, and professional monitoring are as important in 2025 as they were decades ago.

What's changed most is integration. Your security system is now the backbone of your smart home, controlling everything from lights to thermostats to door locks – all while providing protection.

Understanding How Security Companies Operate

ADT and SafeStreets: The Authorized Dealer Model

ADT operates through a network of authorized dealers like SafeStreets. This means SafeStreets handles sales and installation, while ADT provides the monitoring through their six redundant monitoring centers across the US.

This relationship ensures consistent quality standards – SafeStreets must adhere to ADT's strict requirements for installation and service. When you sign up with SafeStreets, your contract is with ADT, and your monitoring comes directly from their centers.

Vivint: The Direct Sales Approach

Vivint takes a different approach with their direct-to-consumer model. They handle everything in-house: sales, installation, equipment manufacturing, and monitoring. This vertical integration allows them to control the entire customer experience and rapidly deploy new technology.

Their smart home integration is particularly impressive – in our testing, their system offered the most seamless control of connected devices.

The Monitoring Backbone: Alarm.com

Here's an industry secret: many local security dealers use the same monitoring platform – Alarm.com. This platform powers the backend of countless security systems nationwide, providing the infrastructure for monitoring and mobile app control.

ADT uses their proprietary monitoring centers, while many local dealers rely on Alarm.com or similar third-party monitoring services. This isn't necessarily bad – these platforms are robust and reliable – but it's something to be aware of when comparing providers.

Professional Installation vs. DIY: Why Experts Matter

After watching professionals install five different systems in our test house, I can confidently say: professional installation is worth every penny, even for tech-savvy homeowners.

The Tricks of the Trade

Professional installers know things you don't – like the optimal height for motion sensors to avoid pet triggers while catching human movement, or how to position door sensors to prevent tampering. They understand the radio frequency environment in your home and how to ensure reliable wireless communication.

During our testing, I watched professionals identify and address potential security vulnerabilities I would have completely missed – blind spots in coverage, approach angles to windows, and tamper risks.

Common DIY Mistakes

The most frequent DIY mistakes include improper sensor placement, inadequate coverage of entry points, and failure to secure the system's control panel. These errors can create security gaps that render your system ineffective when you need it most.

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

Top Home Security Installers in San Bernardino

SafeStreets (ADT Authorized Dealer): Offering ADT's industry-leading monitoring with professional installation and a wide range of equipment options. Their technicians are thoroughly vetted and trained to ADT's standards, ensuring consistent quality.

Vivint: Their cutting-edge smart home technology and seamless integration make them ideal for tech-forward homeowners. Their installation professionals are company employees (not contractors), resulting in consistently high-quality installations.

Simplisafe: The best option for renters, offering flexible, no-contract security with optional professional installation. Their systems can move with you when your lease ends.

Local San Bernardino Options:

Security Eco: Offers comprehensive security systems, home network installation, and home automation services.

Main Tech Systems: Specializes in home theater installation alongside security systems and home network setup.

Security Screen Doors: Focuses on physical security systems at 15851 Pounders Dr.

ATI: Affordable Technology: Provides home theater installation, security systems, and home automation at 1254 S Waterman Ave.

It Guru: Offers IT services, computer repair, web design, and security systems.

Tech Time: Specializes in IT services, computer repair, security systems, and home automation at 7091 Perris Hill Rd.

San Bernardino Crime Trends: Why Security Matters

With property crime 43% above the national average and violent crime a shocking 261% higher than the national average, San Bernardino earns a crime grade of 0 – the lowest possible rating. These statistics make home security essential for both the 51.4% who own homes and the 48.6% who rent.

Security systems not only protect your property but can reduce insurance premiums and provide documentation in case of incidents. For renters, portable systems like Simplisafe offer protection without permanent modifications.

The Bottom Line: National vs. Local Installers

After a year of testing and living with these systems, here's my verdict: while local companies may offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the reliability, consistent standards, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint justify their slightly higher costs for most homeowners.

National providers offer proven monitoring infrastructure, consistent installation standards, and established support systems that simply work when you need them most.

Don't leave your family's safety to chance – prioritize professional installation from a reputable provider. The few hundred dollars you might save going DIY won't seem like much if your system fails when you need it most.

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 San Bernardino, California

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 San Bernardino

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 San Bernardino 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?”

San Bernardino, CA Home Security System Installers

Find a local security company

IWatcher Plus Security Camera Store
9901 Indiana Ave
Cctv Security Systems
12142 Central Ave
Post Alarm Systems & Patrol Services
47 E St Joseph St
Espinoza Installations
12631 Imperial Hwy
Security Screen Doors
15851 Pounders Dr
ATI: Affordable Technology
1254 S Waterman Ave
Tech Time
7091 Perris Hill Rd
T & J Electric Services
9185 Clay Canyon Dr
Security Eco
Main Tech Systems
Jack Wires Communication
LA Security Cameras
Best Alarm Company
It Guru
IT Security Systems

Areas Served

Neighborhoods of San Bernardino, CA

Cities Nearby San Bernardino, California

Lytle Creek, CA
Yucaipa, CA
Fontana, CA
Grand Terrace, CA
Highland, CA
Running Springs, CA
Highgrove, CA
San Bernardino, CA

Zip Codes in San Bernardino, California

92404
92369
92401
92407
92405
92408
92411
92410
92415
92346

Information About San Bernardino

San Bernardino has a population of 216,784 and is located in San Bernardino County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $49,287. Median home value is $268,898, and the median rent is $1,109/month. With a median age of 30.9 years old, 11.8% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 18.2% having an income over $100,000. 36.5% of households are married.

San Bernardino Demographics

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

  • White – 51.7%
  • Two or More Races – 8.1%
  • Black or African American – 13.2%
  • Other Race – 21.9%
  • Asian – 4.1%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native – 0.8%
  • Native Hawaiian / Other Pacific Islander – 0.2%

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.

San Bernardino, California Home Security System FAQs

What is the best home security system in San Bernardino

Based on our research, the best home security system option for residents of San Bernardino, CA 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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