Security News & Trends

How Much Does a Commercial Security System Cost?

Written by General Security | Jan 14, 2022 7:47:55 PM

With commercial properties and small businesses experiencing burglaries every 10 seconds, it’s more important than ever to add a security system for theft protection and peace of mind.

Whether these unsavory activities are committed by external sources, employees, or others with regular access, there are several factors to consider—with cost and budget perhaps the most important. 

Commercial security technologies can also be utilized for other measures, such as smart integrations, access control, data insights, business analytics, and other important capabilities and statistics.

Pricing the best security solution for your commercial property is dependent on several factors, such as equipment, customizations, special features, maintenance, and more. A reputable service provider can help personalize the necessary solution for your business for the highest levels of protection, data, and communication.

 

Consult this useful explainer to learn more about commercial security pricing, installation, monitoring services, equipment, business activity analytics, smart features, and more. 


 

Commercial Security Cost Ranges

While pricing varies for every commercial security system, significant factors include need, equipment, work scope, size, number of employees, and others. A small business with one location and less than 10 employees will have different requirements than a commercial operation with hundreds of employees and multiple locations.

Rather than offer limited, so-called “cookie-cutter” packages, service providers such as General Security are now featuring custom solutions to meet specific needs. Whether you require several security cameras with smart features and Business Activity Analytics, or a basic alarm system, we can help protect your employees, business, and livelihood. 

Most standard alarm systems boast a control panel with keypad, three to six window contacts, and motion sensors. Higher-end solutions could include multiple security cameras with smart automation features, such as temperature and flood sensors, intrusion detection, access control, remote video surveillance, and more.

 

24/7 Central Station Monitoring
& Protection

Should you choose professional or do-it-yourself (DIY) installation, it’s recommended to include additional Central Station Monitoring for 24/7 peace of mind. While you can self-monitor your system, such an immediate connection and continuous surveillance can be the differences between injuries, theft, and even possible fatalities.

Staffed by trained specialists, these monitoring centers receive automatic emergency response alerts directly from your business system to local law enforcement agencies and first responders. Combined with real-time video surveillance and monitoring, this added step protects your business and employees, whether you’re on site or not. 

Commercial Security Technology, Devices & Equipment

With most systems comprised of alarms with sensors and security cameras, when working with an Alarm.com service provider, such as General Security, you can add video surveillance, access control, and intrusion detection, along with analytics components such as open/close reports, multi-location viewing, and more. 


Security Cameras & Smart Video Surveillance

Pricing the best security solution for your commercial property is dependent on several factors, such as equipment, customizations, special features, maintenance, and more.

Property location and size will affect total commercial security system cost. Prepare to also pay slightly more for security cameras with higher resolution, zoom, and video analytics. 

For video surveillance, you’ll have 24/7 access through the Alarm.com app to review images and footage via customized timelines. The app also measures video health— indicating low memory and storage space.


Business Analytics & Data Insights

Business owners can utilize Alarm.com Business Activity Analytics for strategic monitoring and business management practices. This technology boasts specific rules around motion detection, such as virtual tripwires for occupancy management and people counting, as well heat mapping, queue monitoring, and crowd control insights.

It also captures important data such as employee open/close reports and break times, inventory tracking, and customer traffic and marketing analytics. 


Keycard Access Control & Entrance Systems

These intrusion detection actions provide an extra security layer, while keeping any persona non grata at bay. Combining with other smart technologies such as video surveillance and Business Activity Analytics offers additional features, such as personalized access levels, safety audits, and employee activity log management.


Energy Management & Temperature Monitoring

For food service businesses or other temperature-sensitive activities, consider adding contact sensors to appliances for real-time monitoring. This helps with managing food storage, ensures safe settings, and provides waste and inventory accountability if refrigerators or freezers remain open or ajar.

This can also assist with interior cooling and heating, by adjusting levels during extreme weather or temperature fluctuations. Real-time Alarm.com app alerts provide important insights about internal setting changes, outages, or emergencies.

 

Multi-Location Management

If you have several employees across multiple locations, consider tying together your analytics and information via the Alarm.com Enterprise Dashboard. Its single interface enables you to conveniently review operation data and analytics—from any mobile device.

 

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) vs. Professional Installation

For the budget minded and technically savvy, a DIY commercial security system can be a cost-saving option. While General Security offers help and technical support to DIYers within local service areas, a professional installation could be more prudent for multiple locations with complex systems.

Utilizing a professional company also grants access to expert knowledge and guidance regarding product placement and other professional best practices. 

 


When working with an Alarm.com service provider, such as General Security, you can add video surveillance, access control, and intrusion detection, along with analytics components such as open/close reports, multi-location viewing, and more. 

Vendor Compatibility & Technology Integrations

Consider a commercial security system that easily integrates among multiple manufacturers with solid reputations. Working with a service provider with long-term vendor partnerships is also recommended for system functionality, ease of use, cost savings, and reliable service and maintenance—as well as seamless upgrades and expansions. 

 

Beware of 'Special Pricing' & Other Hidden Fees

Read the fine print when reviewing your service and equipment contract. Some companies will promote special pricing or free offers, only to tack on hidden fees and surcharges. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Researching online customer review and feedback platforms is also recommended.

 

Custom Commercial Security Solutions Tailored to Your Needs

If you require additional guidance on the optimal commercial security solution, it’s best to work with a versatile and reputable provider such as General Security. We offer customized pricing and personalized solutions specifically designed to meet your needs and protect your employees, assets, and property.

General Security provides commercial businesses reliable, effective security systems. Contact us for an on-site survey and inspection, and free quote today!