How to Choose a Security Company

September 2nd, 2022



Hiring the right security company is an important step in protecting your home or business from security and safety threats, such as fires and intrusion. However, there are a number of security companies in Chico, CA. How do you know which one of them can provide you with the best services and products?

Finding the right security company to work with can seem like a daunting task, unless you know exactly what to look for in one. Here are seven tips on how to find a reliable, experienced, and qualified security company.

1. Seek Recommendations From Family and Friends Living in the Same City or State

One of the easiest ways to find a security company that you can trust is to ask family and friends who have security systems installed in their homes. It’s important that they are living in the same city and state as you do, as you want to work with a local company. Similarly, you can also ask neighbors who have alarm and security systems in their homes.

When you work with a security company based in Chico, CA, it will be easier for you to learn more about them. You’ll also be able to easily get in touch with them should you have any concerns regarding your system.

2. Look for a Company With Certified Staff

When you already have a security company in mind, take the time to learn more about them. One of the first things you should endeavor to find out is if the company’s employees are trained and certified by the National Training School (NTS) of the Electronic Security Association (ESA).

Security professionals trained and certified through the ESA’s NTS have completed intensive training when it comes to electronic security. Working with such professionals gives you peace of mind, knowing that you’re getting industry-standard services.

3. Evaluate The Company’s Track Record

One of the best ways to determine whether an alarm and security systems company is reliable and credible is to learn more about their work history. Do they get complaints from customers? How well do they handle such complaints? You can check with the Better Business Bureau and local consumer protection agencies to see whether the company receives a lot of complaints.

4. Ask for Proof of License and Permits

Companies need to secure business permits before they can operate a business. Furthermore, some states require security professionals to secure licenses before they can offer services.

In general, security companies will only be able to get permits and licenses to operate if they pass the stringent requirements of the local government and professionals board. So, working with a fully licensed company also means working with a highly qualified one.

5. Sit Down With the Company’s Representative

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s best to schedule a meeting and consultation with the security company you’re eyeing to hire. They will send a representative. In the meeting, you can discuss your needs and the security company’s representative will provide you with recommendations.

During the meeting, you’ll be able to gauge whether the company has the kind of services and systems that you need.

Ready to enhance your Chico, CA home or business? Get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation!

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