What is the best home security system for a renter? Wireless? Do you have to have a phone line?

Question

I need a cost effective burglar alarm system. I rent so I need something I can take with me when I leave. Do I need a monitoring service? Can you have a wireless system with no phone line? Is it better to buy a DIY system online and then purchase monitoring separately?

Answer 1

You should check out http://ucontrol.com. They have this cool box that you plug into any existing alarm system. It gives you redundant monitoring over broadband, cellular and a phone line - so if the robber cuts your phone line, you;re are still in good shape. It also lets you control and monitor your alarm system remotely from the web or your cell phone. Best part is you can take the box with you when you move and plug it into another system at your next location.

Answer 2

You could use a DIY type that is wireless and local only. If you want notifications (whether to your cell phone or to a company) you still need a way for the system to do the contact. That will keep landlines in business longer.

Answer 3

We had a wireless one when we rented. You don't need a phone line, but you can hook one up that dials your cell phone in case your alarm is going off. I think we got ours at Radio Shack. It was pretty nice and had add-on's that you could include in the system.