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About ADT
ADT was offering home security services before most people even knew they needed them. With over 145 years of experience, this company has pioneered many of the services we rely on today. And, since it continues to hold nearly half of the home security market, you know that they’re doing something right.
Still, oldest doesn’t always mean best. If you’re here, it means you’re not willing to just trust ADT’s reputation alone. We applaud your due diligence and want to reassure you—there’s a lot more to this company than its household name.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about ADT home security. We’ll discuss its equipment, services, plans, benefits, and more. You can then use this information to make the best decision for your home and family’s protection.
Key Takeaways
- ADT has been offering home security solutions for over 145 years, backing its services and products with extensive experience
- You can choose to finance your equipment or pay for your system upfront, but you will have to sign a long-term monitoring agreement either way
- ADT’s offerings include wired and wireless options, smart home integrations, and several exclusive perks
- Choose from several equipment packages or build your own, with the option to add individual devices to your selection
- Customers enjoy professional installation, professional 24/7 monitoring, and a free security consultation
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Unmatched industry experience with over 145 years in business
- Smart home options, including Z-Wave integrations
- Wireless and wired options
- Professional installation
- Security consultation
- Nine monitoring centers, which offers industry-best professional 24/7 monitoring
- Six-month money-back guarantee and 30-day free trial
- Great mobile app
Cons
- Contract required for every plan
- Mandatory installation fee
- Professional monitoring plan required for every system
- Reliance on third-party dealers can create customer service issues
What does ADT Offer?
In 1874, ADT helped protect its customers by sending security alerts through Morse code. Since then, its offerings have grown to include both wired and wireless home security systems, smart home integrations, industry-leading professional monitoring, and more.
Today, this company continues to provide top-notch home security solutions. Nearly half of all home security customers choose ADT for their protection. So many homes are already equipped with one of its systems, in fact, that the company offers an easy way to adopt existing equipment into a new plan.
When you choose ADT, you can have confidence in your protection. It has worked hard to develop and keep up with the latest home security technology, so you don’t have to worry about getting an outdated system despite the company’s age. Plus, its experience and extra perks will make it clear that ADT is a top choice for home security.
Security solutions
Like most home security companies, ADT offers a range of equipment, including sensors, cameras, smart control panels, and devices for home automation. This equipment ensures that every part of your home is covered to help prevent, detect, and stop home invasions and environmental dangers.
Before installing the devices, a security expert will evaluate your home to design the best system. They will recommend the best options for your home and preferences, including devices such as:
- ADT Command touchscreen control panel
- Keypads
- Door and window sensors
- Motion detectors
- Carbon monoxide sensors
- Smoke and heat sensors
- Flood sensors
- Indoor cameras
- Outdoor cameras
- Doorbell cameras
- Key fobs
Security cameras
Security cameras can capture important events and details that you might miss. ADT offers indoor and outdoor cameras to cover your home’s vulnerabilities. You can also install a doorbell camera to see and talk to anyone approaching your front door.
Most importantly, you can use the ADT app to view your live camera feeds from anywhere and at any time. Your home will stay protected, even when you’re away.
Emergency situations
Unfortunately, a security system isn’t always enough to prevent break-ins. If your family is threatened by an intruder, ADT is ready to act. Built-in duress and panic functions allow you to call for help without alerting the burglar. You can then get help from emergency responders quickly.
This security provider offers a medical alert system to cover medical emergencies as well. If you or a loved one can’t get to the phone after a fall or episode, one push of a button will bring first responders to your aid.
Benefits of choosing ADT
1. Moving with an ADT security system
Whether you want to move your system to a new home or activate the equipment installed by the previous owner, ADT will work with you to make it happen. You can enjoy uninterrupted home security, even during your move, with the provider’s seamless transition.
2. ADT’s six-month money-back guarantee
This security provider understands that it isn’t the right fit for everyone. If your system doesn’t work for you and ADT can’t resolve the problem within the first six months of your contract, you can get a full refund. You do have to qualify for this deal, so don’t rely on this option until you speak with a representative about its requirements.
3. Theft Protection Guarantee
If someone burglarizes your home while your security system is armed, ADT will reimburse up to $500 of your homeowner’s insurance deductible. This perk isn’t offered by many home security companies, so it’s one more reason to trust ADT for protection.
4. Smart home integrations
system to your smart ecosystem or include smart add-ons in your plan to enjoy the best of today’s security technology.
5. Service and repairs
Faulty or broken devices can add expensive, frustrating costs to your home security. Thankfully, ADT includes repairs and replacements in its monitoring plans. Its team will make sure your devices are working properly to maintain your protection.
Compare ADT Safestreets Home Security Packages
With ADT + Safestreets you’ll always get:
24/7 Professional Monitoring
Professional Installation
Theft Protection Guarantee
6-Month, Money-Back Guarantee
Service & Repairs Included*
Traditional Package
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Remote Package
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Control Package
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Video & Automation
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*Subject to terms and conditions of the Residential Services Contract. With $99 or $199 installation charge and new monitoring agreement. Early termination fee applies. See terms for details.
ADT’s prices are on the high side of average, but its contract requirement may be hard for some to swallow. Every customer is required to sign a monitoring contract when they use ADT’s services. You can choose a 24-month, 36-month, or 60-month agreement when you sign up.
Though long-term contracts aren’t always the ideal option, this pricing system also allows you to join for as little as $0 down. The cost of your equipment will then be spread across the length of your agreement. The longer your contract, the lower your monthly payment will be. Your monthly payments will include the cost of your monitoring service as well.
You can also choose to pay your equipment costs in full when you sign up. You will still have to sign a minimum 36-month agreement for professional monitoring, but your payments will be lower each month.
Packages
In addition to choosing the contract length that best suits your needs, you can also design the perfect security system for your home. ADT offers three equipment packages, along with the options to design your own from scratch.
Add-ons and upgrades
In addition to the equipment included in each package, you can add on any additional devices to strengthen your system. ADT’s add-ons include:
- Outdoor Google Nest Cam
- Google Nest Cam with floodlight
- Indoor Google Nest Cam
- Google Nest WiFi and Point
- Google Nest Mini
- Google Nest Hub Max
- Google Nest Thermostat
- Smart door locks
- Emergency panic button
For medical emergencies, you can purchase the Medical Alert System as well. This service requires its own equipment and a separate monitoring service.
Professional 24/7 monitoring plans
Professional 24/7 monitoring is essential to every home security system. With this service, a monitoring agent will always be ready to respond to any break-ins or emergencies. Even if you’re unaware of the problem or unable to respond, this agent will make sure that you get the help you need immediately.
Best of all, ADT has nine monitoring centers across the country. If any of these locations experience outages or issues, the others will pick up the slack. You will never be left unprotected.
As mentioned, systems that include cameras require video support in their monitoring plans. When you build or choose your equipment package, ADT will automatically determine which monitoring service is required for your devices. Your monthly monitoring fee also covers your Quality Service Plan, which covers any repair or service needs.
Every ADT home security system requires a professional monitoring plan and won’t fully protect your home without this service.
Professional installation
After purchasing your system, a security expert will install the equipment into your home. During this visit, they will evaluate your home to find the best locations and angles for each device. If they feel like another device is needed to cover any vulnerabilities, they will let you know during this free home assessment.
That said, the installers aren’t salesmen, so you don’t have to worry about being sold any unnecessary equipment.
The cost of this service varies depending on the type of equipment used, but you can expect to pay about between one and two hundred dollars. Since it ensures that every device is installed correctly and in the right place, however, it is well worth the price.
How ADT compares to the competition
Despite ADT’s dominance in the home security market, it isn’t the only option. Vivint and Frontpoint, in particular, offer similarly powerful systems. As you consider your choices, here is a quick comparison between ADT and these two security providers.
ADT vs Vivint
Frontpoint is a DIY security option. You pay for all of your equipment upfront and install it yourself. Since the equipment is designed to be installed by customers, it’s easier to remove and reinstall. If you are a renter or only living in your home for a short time, this might make Frontpoint easier to use. ADT will help you move your system, but you can’t do it all on your own.
ADT allows you to either pay for your equipment upfront or finance it over your contract period, but paying upfront is your only option with Frontpoint. Your equipment costs will be lower with the DIY provider, but you will pay a similar fee for monthly monitoring for both companies.
Like Vivint, Frontpoint’s system is completely wireless. If you want a wired option, ADT is the best choice.
Both providers offer highly-rated apps for remote access and control. Every Frontpoint customer can use the app, but ADT’s lowest-tier equipment package does not include the app.
If you want an option that’s easier to move and you don’t mind doing your own install, Frontpoint is a great option. To minimize your upfront costs and leave the work to the professionals, ADT is a better fit. For reliable home security, however, it’s hard to go wrong with either option.
ADT vs Frontpoint
The biggest difference between these providers is that Frontpoint only offers DIY installation and Vivint only allows professional installation. Less handy folks may struggle to get the full benefits of their Frontpoint system if they aren’t able to install or use it correctly. If you have a large home or property to monitor, getting your system set up may be more hassle than it’s worth.
Since it’s a DIY system, however, Frontpoint’s system can move with you to any home without extra costs or hassle. Vivint has several options for moving with your security system, but you will have to pay a removal and/or installation fee.
You will never have to sign a contract with Frontpoint, but that also means you have to pay for your equipment upfront. Vivint offers both upfront and contract financing options, though their equipment costs are higher overall. Vivint’s technology costs may be higher, but Frontpoint charges more for monthly monitoring services.
Both companies provide similar security features, including wireless connectivity, live streaming, and mobile app controls. Vivint has better home automation technology, but both offer smart home integrations.
If you rent, plan to move soon, or own a small home, Frontpoint may be a better fit. For more flexible and cheaper pricing options, Vivint is the best choice. If you are unsure about using a security system, consider using Frontpoint’s 30-day trial. At this time, Vivint doesn’t offer a trial period.
Deals, promo codes, and discounts
ADT regularly runs discounts and deals for its equipment. Some are available at any time of the year while others are scheduled for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other events.
Some of the discounts you may be able to use for your system include:
- Free equipment with purchases
- Discounted installation fees
- Discounts for reactivating during a move
- Special deals for USAA members, Lennar Homes customers, veterans, and MetLife customers
- Rewards for referrals
Smart home automation
Seamlessly integrate smart home devices with your home security system. Using the mobile app, you can then view and adjust your devices remotely. You can also use voice control to access your network of devices.
ADT’s equipment includes numerous Google Nest devices, so a Google Home ecosystem is a great option. This security equipment doesn’t work with Apple’s HomeKit, but it does integrate with Amazon’s smart home ecosystem and any devices that operate on Z-Wave protocol.
Along with Command control panel, the smart devices in your security system can include:
- Indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras
- Smart locks
- Smart thermostats
- Smart lighting
- Smart plugs
- Smart garage controller
- Smart sensors
Home automation strengthens your security while making your life easier. Whether you already have a network of smart devices or want to start from scratch, ADT can help you achieve the ideal smart security system.
The ADT Control mobile app
When you aren’t at home or are unable to detect threats, the ADT Control mobile app puts your security in the palm of your hand. It will send instant notifications to alert you to issues, such as your alarm being triggered or a door being left unlocked.
Other capabilities include:
- Arming and disarming your system
- Controlling smart devices, such as locks and thermostats
- Automating actions and schedules, such as turning on lights at a certain time or recording videos when the front door unlocks
- Viewing previously recorded videos
- Checking the status of your lights, thermostat, garage door, and door locks for greater peace of mind
With the app, you can stay in control of your security from anywhere in the world.
Customer service
If you contact ADT directly, you will typically receive exceptional customer service. The company handles issues quickly and doesn’t leave customers hanging. You can reach the company by phone, email, and live chat.
Unfortunately, ADT also partners with third-party dealers to sell its products and services. Many of these local businesses are reliable and quick to respond, but some offer a poor customer experience. If you work with a dealer, make sure they have a good reputation before signing your agreement.
Who should choose ADT?
When looking at home security systems, it’s important to think about both your current situation and your future plans. ADT is best for people who plan to stay in their current homes for at least the length of their contract. Moving incurs additional costs and hassle, so it isn’t ideal for short-term renters or temporary homes.
That said, ADT’s experience, flexible pricing options, and smart home integrations offer one of the best security options on the market. Once your system is installed, you will never have to worry about your home’s protection again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
ADT offers both wired and wireless options for its home security system. Your representative will work with you to understand which type of system is best for your home and needs.
When the ADT professional installer comes to your home to set up the equipment, they will walk you through using your new system. Since your system might be personalized to your needs, they go through each device in detail to make sure you are confident in your use. You can take this time to ask any questions you may have.
First, give ADT a call to make sure your system is functional. An agent will activate the devices you already have and help identify any additional equipment you want to add or upgrade. They will also help you find the best monitoring plan for your home’s safety.
No, you will need a monitoring plan to access, control, and adjust all of the devices in your system. You may be able to use your door and window sensors to trigger an alarm for unexpected entries, but you won’t be able to customize this alert or use the ADT app to get notifications.
Yes, every ADT security system requires a 24-, 36-, or 60-month contract for professional monitoring. You can pay for your equipment upfront to minimize your monthly costs, but you will still have to sign a long-term agreement.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Give us a call
Chat with one of our home security specialists at
Step 2: Customize Your System
On the call, talk through your specific needs and customize your system.
Step 3: Schedule Installation
Pick a time that works for you, and relax while ADT professionally installs your system.
Call now to talk to an expert.
What Customers Are Saying About ADT
Overall ADT Customer Satisfaction Review Rating
ADT is America’s most trusted security provider.
Reviews and data courtesy adt.com