Ask Yourself These 4 Questions When Building Your Smart Home Ecosystem

November 30th, 2021



When you integrate all of the connected devices in your Chico home, you have the ability to create a smart home ecosystem. A smart home allows you to control everything, from lights to security systems, through a single app or hub. If you’re considering building a smart home ecosystem, but are unsure how it will best fit your lifestyle, as yourself these four questions before you begin.

Do You Want A Professional Install Or A DIY System?

It seems like everyone wants to do everything for themselves. Do-it-Yourself (DIY) is a great trend that can be found in all aspects of home improvement. DIY home security systems have been slow to emerge, but today they can offer an affordable and convenient alternative to professional installations.

DIY home security systems require the homeowner to install all connected devices on their own. Those who choose to do this must do their research.  Systems must be purchased from a reputable distributor, and proper installation is the only way to ensure security. Those who are not comfortable with DIY should have their smart home ecosystem professionally installed. 

What Type Of Features Do You Want With Your System?

After you decide on your preferred method of installation for your smart home ecosystem, it’s time to think about the features you want. A professional installer will offer you the option of a 24/7 monitoring service. If an emergency occurs in your Chico home, an alarm will alert you to the threat. At the same time, the 24/7 monitoring center will be notified. They will proceed to contact emergency services.

Other options in smart home ecosystem security include:

  • Cameras
  • Carbon monoxide detectors
  • Garage door control
  • Lights
  • Locks
  • Motion sensors
  • Smoke alarms
  • Thermostats

What Is Your Property Like?

Do you live in a multi-tenant apartment complex, a townhome, or a single-family unit in Chico? Your smart home ecosystem options will vary based on your residence type. Those who live in a single-family home will need to consider outdoor smart lights. Those in a multi-unit complex won’t need to think about exterior protection. A reputable vendor can help you find a solution that meets your needs.

Those who own their property can customize their smart home ecosystem. Those who rent or lease do not have the same freedoms. Landlords often have restrictions on what equipment can be permanently installed, so check with your landlord to see what smart home security features are within the parameters of your lease.

Who Lives In Your Home With You?

Do you live alone? Or do you have roommates, children, or pets? Your smart home ecosystem should be built around the people who live with you. Pets and children can trip sensors and create a false alarm. If the system is activated when you’re not available, roommates need to know how to operate it. When you consider your options before integration, you can create a smart home ecosystem that works together in harmony to give you peace and security.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
    Call (530) 327-7268