personal alert systems
Scout charges $10 per month just for DIY monitoring — there is no free monitoring plan. DIY monitoring is only $10
less than the professional plan. This isn’t exceptional when it comes to DIY home security, however, since many have cellular connections. These connections work similarly to your cell phone plan and are more secure than traditional Wi Fi or landline connections. But it’s important to note that even if you’re doing the monitoring yourself, you’ll still be charged to keep your system up and running. If you don’t buy the equipment outright, Vivint requires either a four or five year contract — a long time to commit, especially given that you only have three days from the date of install to cancel. Afterwards, you’ll have to pay out the remainder of your contract. If you may be moving in the near future, it’ll cost you $99 to take the system with you. You could alternatively renew your contract, but
then you’d be locked in for even longer. Vivint will waive any cancellation fees for extenuating circumstances like death, military circumstances, bankruptcy, or a move to assisted living. Still, it’s best to be intentional if you decide on Vivint.
