Best Home Security Systems in Dallas, TX

Dallas' violent and property crime rates are significantly higher than the U.S. average — residents have a 1 in 31 chance of becoming a victim of property crime and a 1 in 129 chance of being a victim of a violent crime.

Dallas vs. U.S. crime rates (per 1,000 residents)

Oak Cliff, South Dallas and Vickery Meadow have higher rates of crime than other parts of the city. Areas of North Dallas — including Lake Highlands and Preston Hollow — have the lowest crime rates. But remember: No matter where you live in Dallas, you can never be too safe with your family and property. A home security system offers protection and provides peace of mind.

Home security systems generally focus on smart technology, but there are several traditional options, including door and window sensors, that are still utilized. Deciding how “smart” you’d like your system to be and how much remote control you want over the system are important choices to make before shopping around. Read reviews, ask friends about their recommendations and do your research on different security systems before gathering quotes or scheduling consultations. Ask potential alarm companies for references and read over any contract carefully.

Local and federal alarm company checks

The Federal Trade Commission recommends making sure the security company has a Texas state Class B license and checking for reports on file with the state attorney general.

Monitoring for Dallas security systems costs $20 to $40 per month, and equipment and installation charges ranging from $200 to more than $1,000. The total cost depends on the design and whether you add options like home automation or other high-tech gadgets. Security systems in Dallas may come with an annual contract or be month-to-month, but long-term contracts usually save you money.

Pay attention to specific fees, such as those for installation and activation. Many companies have promotions to waive these fees or don’t charge them at all, but you don’t want to be surprised if they show up on your bill. Most security companies in Dallas offer free estimates for home alarm systems. Also, some security companies allow you to use existing equipment and charge you only for monitoring.

Registering a DFW home security system

The city of Dallas requires a security alarm permit if the alarm is audible and/or monitored to provide a police response. A residential alarm permit is $50 annually, and a business alarm permit costs $100 per year. Many cities in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex charge for false alarms.

The following chart breaks down the cost per false alarm for a home with a security alarm permit in the Dallas area. The first three false alarms for every city are considered a mistake and the homeowner is not to be charged a fine.

Dallas metro area false alarm fees (per 12 months)

One of the best ways to protect your home is to work with your neighbors and local law enforcement to keep an eye on your neighborhood and ensure its safety. There are several neighborhood watch and crime prevention organizations in Dallas. Check out these groups for more information:

• Dallas Police Crime Watch program: A neighborhood-based crime prevention program using the strength of the community to help ensure safety
• North Texas Crime Stoppers: Crime information, tips and resources in both English and Spanish
• Volunteers In Patrol: A volunteer group trained by the Dallas Police Department that increases visibility and vigilance in neighborhoods
• North Texas Crime Commission: Offers law enforcement support, crime prevention and  a crime control program