Moving with a ADT Security System

What happens to my ADT contract if I move?

Moving is stressful and busy. While you’re running around trying to pack everything, handle your utilities, and get the kids enrolled in their new schools, you can’t forget about your home security service.

The first thing you will need to do is let ADT know that you are moving to a new home. You will have to let them know at least 30 days before the move. If you don’t meet this requirement, the company may be able to work with you, but you will probably have to jump through some extra hoops.

Contracts are based on location. When you tell ADT about your move, they will identify the local dealer that serves your new home. You will have to cancel your current agreement and start a new one, either directly with ADT or with your new local dealer.

If you are staying in the same general location and only moving to a new home, you may be able to keep your contract and transfer your equipment. This possibility is not guaranteed. Before making any plans, we recommend reaching out to ADT and your local dealer to see what options are available.

Though you will be starting fresh with new equipment and a new agreement, you may not have to pay full price for the move. ADT offers several deals for existing customers, including discounts and free equipment, such as smart locks and safety sensors. You may also have moving credits on your account, which you can apply toward your new service and devices.

These discounts vary and may be dependent on good standing with the security provider. Speak with an ADT representative to understand what they can offer.

Before signing a new contract, we recommend researching the dealer that serves your new home. You can read reviews to see how happy customers are with their service. You may also be able to find special savings.

You will be trusting this business to set up your security system and manage your contract, so it’s important to feel comfortable with the team and the service they offer.

What if I don’t want to keep my ADT service?

Sometimes, moving your ADT service just isn’t an option. Maybe your new home comes with another security system or you’re moving into someone else’s house and can’t bring your service with you. 

If you aren’t going to continue using ADT, you will need to call the company to speak to a representative. They will help you understand your options. You can work with them to close out your account and handle any charges left to pay.

Do you take your ADT equipment with you when you move?

No, you can leave the equipment as it is. While some companies will charge you to remove your system when you move, you won’t have to worry about your existing devices at all. ADT owns all of its equipment, so it takes responsibility for the system after you leave.

When you’re ready to move into your new home, a security expert will come by for another free risk assessment. Your security needs will probably be different in your new home, so this service ensures that you get protection that covers these vulnerabilities.

You can then choose the equipment package and add-ons that you want in your new place. You will get the latest versions of each product, as well as access to any new items. If you had an older system, this is your opportunity to enjoy the latest and greatest security technology.

ADT works hard to protect your family, so you can schedule the installation appointment for your new system within a day or two of the move. Like your first install appointment, the technician may need anywhere from an hour to several hours to set up your equipment. The larger and more complex your system is, the longer it will take.

Before leaving, the installer will show you how to use all of your new equipment to make sure you’re comfortable with any new features. Some moving deals may include free installation, but that isn’t guaranteed. Be sure to factor the installation fee into your budget.

How do I transfer ADT to a new owner?

Since you leave your system in place when you move out of your old home, your ADT equipment is already set up and ready to protect that house. When the new owners move in, they have the option to take over the equipment and start their own contract.

If you move into a house that is set up with an ADT security system, you hit the jackpot. Your system is already optimized to protect your home’s vulnerabilities, so you will just need to activate it with your own plan.

Start by contacting the security provider to set up your account. They will help you choose your monthly monitoring plan and order any devices you want to add. A technician will then come by to activate your system and transfer it to your account.

If you already have smart devices in your home, they can also help you connect them to your security system. Smart home systems require a specific monitoring plan, so just make sure to choose an option that includes home automation.

What if my new home already has another security company’s equipment?

ADT isn’t the only player in the home security industry, so your new house might also include another company’s equipment. 

Luckily, ADT can work with some types of competitor products. Give ADT a call and let the representative know what kind of equipment you found. They will let you know if it will work with their service and how to sign up for a new contract.

If any of the equipment doesn’t work or you want more coverage, you can purchase the devices you need when setting up your account.

Though you won’t always be able to use the equipment installed in your home, it doesn’t hurt to ask about your options.

Can I get ADT without a contract?

Let’s say you move into a home that is equipped with an ADT security system. If you don’t want to pay for security services or start a contract, you may be wondering, “Can’t I just use the equipment without paying for the service?”

Unfortunately, the answer is no. Like most security systems, you have to be an active customer to use these devices to protect your home. As we explored above, though, you can take over the system and activate it with your own service agreement.

That said, your door and window sensors will still work after the associated contract is canceled. You won’t, however, be able to use the ADT Command control panel to access your system and arm/disarm the sensors.

Moving with an ADT security system FAQs

When do I have to tell ADT that I’m moving?

ADT asks that you tell them at least 30 days before you leave your current home. This gives them enough time to locate your new dealer, help you design the security services you want for your future home, and take care of any hiccups.

Does ADT offer any moving deals?

Yes! Existing customers have access to several money-saving opportunities when they are moving their security systems to a new home. Some moving deals may include:

• Free devices included in the new equipment package, such as free safety sensors or smart locks
• Discounts on security costs, such as installation fees

ADT customers can also earn moving credits over the course of their original contract. When you alert the company to your move, they can tell you how many, if any, credits you’ve earned. You can then use these credits to minimize your security costs.

Does ADT have a referral program?

Customers with active service agreements can earn rewards by referring new customers to ADT. When someone signs a qualifying contract and gets the system installed based on your referral, you both benefit. The new customer gets a special discount on their security system. You will receive a $200 Visa Reward Card from ADT.

This referral program works for families and friends, but you can also use it to encourage your home’s new owners to sign up with ADT. If they reactivate the system and sign onto a new plan, you will get the referral reward. You can then use that money toward your new security system.

What if I’m not moving into my new home right away?

Though you are moving out of your current home, you may not be moving directly into your new residence. In this situation, we recommend talking with ADT to see what options are available. Just be sure to tell ADT about your situation at least 30 days before you move out.

How long will it take to install the new system?

The length of your installation depends on the type of equipment you’ve chosen. A basic system may only take an hour to set up. If you’ve purchased multiple cameras or smart devices, however, the installer may need several hours to install and connect all of your devices.

For customers activating an existing system, the installation appointment shouldn’t take as long. If you’ve requested additional equipment, they will need some time to place these items. 

Once everything is in place, they will reactivate the system and transfer it to your account. The technician will then walk you through the system to make sure you’re happy with it and confident in your ability to use it.

Do I need to do anything at my new home before moving the system?

There are a few things you can do to make sure your installation appointment goes smoothly and as quickly as possible. We recommend:

• Making sure the power is on – If you don’t have electricity at your new home, the professional installer won’t be able to set up your new system. Along with making sure the power is on, try to familiarize yourself with the location of your breaker boxes. If you’re getting a wired system or using devices that need to be wired into your home, the technician will need to access the breakers for the rooms they’re working in.
• Setting up your internet service – If you aren’t using smart devices or cameras, this task isn’t as important. For smart home systems, however, internet connectivity is essential for the installation. Make sure you have a strong Wi-Fi signal so the technician can set up and connect each device to the system. 

If you are in a rural area, you may want to check for local coverage as well. ADT covers all of the U.S. and some of Canada. It shouldn’t be a problem, but it doesn’t hurt to check.

To save a bit of time, you can also download the ADT Control app before the installer arrives. You should already have access to it if you’re an existing customer. If you’re new to ADT however, you will need to set up the app to enjoy remote access to your home security system.

Can I cancel my ADT contract if I move?

You always have the option to cancel your service agreement whether you are moving or simply want to discontinue the service. If you cancel your service before the end of your contract, however, you will have to pay a cancellation fee.

How much you pay will depend on your plan and how long you have left in your contract. The only way to suspend your ADT security service is to talk with a representative. They will review your contract to tell you how much it will cost and the steps you need to take to finalize the cancellation.

How can I upgrade my ADT security service in my new home?

Upgrading your devices and adding fresh options for your new home is easy. When you contact ADT to arrange the service at your new home, let them know which devices you want to add to your system. 

ADT is always adding new features and technology to keep its equipment at the forefront of security capabilities, so you may be able to enjoy exciting new benefits. The representative you work with will be able to help you explore and find the right equipment for your new home.

Can I downgrade my ADT security service in my new home?

What works for one home might not work for another, especially if you’re downsizing. In this case, we recommend waiting for your free security evaluation before picking out your new equipment. 

ADT’s security expert will show you what’s needed to fully protect the new home. You may need fewer sensors or cameras, depending on the layout. You can also use this time to express any preferences or budget constraints to make sure you’re happy with the system you choose.

Should I take my ADT yard signs and decals to the new house?

Just like your other equipment, you can leave these items when you move. The new owners can decide if they want to keep them up or remove them.

When you get to your new residence, you can request new yard signs and decals through your MyADT account. These simple items will show burglars and package thieves that your home is protected and shouldn’t be messed with.

Can ADT help me get discounts on my new home insurance policy?

Many homeowners’ insurance providers offer discounts when the house is equipped with a security system. First, check with your insurance provider to see if they offer this deal. If they do, you will likely need to provide an Alarm Monitoring Certificate to confirm your active service. You can find and print this document through your MyADT account.

Do I need to update my account information?

When you work with ADT to start your new contract at your new home, this agreement will automatically include the updated address. You may need to update your billing address and, if applicable, your payment information.

If I’m not moving, can I still adjust my ADT service agreement?

ADT understands that your needs and resources can change with time. They will work with you to modify your service. If you want to adjust the equipment you have at your home or need to lower your security costs, call the company to see what options are available.