The Arkansas Security Alarm Association (ASAA) recommends that consumers take the following steps BEFORE selecting a systems contractor:

Professional Installation vs. Do It Yourself

Before you decide to install an electronic system yourself consider these factors:

• Are you aware of all the codes and standards that govern how your system is installed and operated?
• Are you aware of all of the options and features of the equipment you plan to install?
• Have you considered the value of your time to learn about and install the system in calculating the cost of your do it yourself installation?
• Is the equipment you have access to at retail outlets of equal quality to the professional grade equipment?
• Do you own all the tools you will need to install, test and calibrate the equipment you plan to use?
• Will your insurance policies cover you if you are injured or do damage to your property during the installation?
• Does the company you bought the equipment from provide sufficient help in the event something goes wrong during the installation?

Why Take a Chance?  Use a Licensed Professional

Individuals may be unlicensed because they may not:

• meet financial requirements
• be able to pass a background check
• meet experience requirements
• meet insurance requirements

Use An ASAA Member

When selecting a company to install and monitor your system, make sure the company is a member of the Arkansas Alarm Association (ASAA).

• ASAA members are dedicated to providing the highest level of service and also adhere to a stringent Code of Ethics. As part of the Code of Ethics our association members follow strict guidelines to help reduce false alarms.
• ASAA members make the best business partners. ASAA membership is voluntary, no company is required to join our association. The most reputable companies in the industry belong to ASAA.

We believe that the willingness of our members to seek out educational opportunities in order to better train their employees, submission to our Code of Ethics, and their commitment to cooperate with the association in resolving questions or complaints from consumers, demonstrates their desire to do business professionally and ethically.

As professional security installers we believe it is our responsibility to help combat false alarms.

• ASAA members work hard everyday to prevent false alarms and we take pride in the work we have done to reduce false alarms, but we need your help.
• ASAA members regularly are given information on how to reduce false alarms. Our members also attend conventions and meetings on false alarm prevention and under law must take classes to keep them up-to-date on installation practices including false alarm prevention.

We strongly suggest that all Arkansas consumers include ASAA members in their comparative shopping. We believe this will lead consumers to the right system at a fair price, combined with the best possible service.

We sincerely believe that you will receive a better mix of price and quality by doing business with a ASAA member company. If not, we are here to help resolve any issue that might occur when doing business with a member.

Call Several Companies

It pays to have options

• Ask them if their employees are trained and/or certified by a state association.
• Ask the companies if they conduct any pre-employment screening.

After you’ve narrowed the field to three or four alarm companies, ask for the name of the  person who will call on you. It is best to plan the appointment time when all those involved in the decision are present.

When he/she visits, ask to see some company identification.

Ask for a Written Proposal

Ask each alarm company representative for an inspection, recommendation and a quote in writing.

They should do a survey of your site to make sure the system they propose will meet your needs.

Use a checklist to compare different packages and price quotes.

Research Your Options

Contact your local law enforcement Crime Prevention Department, state licensing agencies,  Consumer Protection Agencies, and the Better Business Bureau.

Look at there ratings, verify that they are licensed and registered in your sate and local area.

Ask if there are unresolved complaints.

Beware of Door to Door Salespeople

While some door-to-door salespersons are honest, some are not. The information below is intended to act as an aid in recognizing the difference.