Why DIY Security Systems For Your Small Business Is A Bad Idea

August 4th, 2023



Businesses and the rest of the US are affected by various crimes, such as employee theft lost. It has also been discovered that 95% of employees steal from their employees, based on a 2013 anonymous survey of 50 retail and service industry employees by Kessler International. That is why there is a need for security systems in the workplace, even small businesses.

Some small business owners rely on DIY security systems because of their benefits. Small business owners likely operate on more limited funds, so investing in advanced commercial security systems doesn’t seem like the most practical solution.

DIY security systems are an attractive option because they are more affordable. Additionally, business owners can save more money as the system comes with no-term contracts and no third-party bills. 

However, allow us to tell you why getting them isn’t a good idea. 



Lack Of Proper Monitoring



What makes DIY security cameras feasible these days is that for one, wireless cameras can now stream video to virtually any mobile device. You can even capture pictures and videos for later use if you pair your cameras with a low-cost computer system. It’s too good to pass up, right? 

However, when you have a DIY security camera, there will be no one to monitor your property 24/7. The thing is, you have to assign staff, or even yourself, to monitor it. It’s not practical to hire someone to monitor it all day and all night because you’ll be spending a lot of money in the long run. DIY 24/7 camera surveillance isn’t the best security solution for businesses—it’s more ideal for residential properties.

Business owners should have 24/7 professionally monitored security systems instead, regardless of the industry they’re in. Those will protect your business from theft and other types of misconduct that may occur anytime.



Installation Isnt That Easy



You might think it’s easy to install a security system on your own, but it’s not as simple as it looks. For example, when you’re setting up a business alarm system, there are factors you need to consider first, such as:



  • The number of cameras you should get
  • The areas on the property that need extra coverage
  • Wiring



Believe us when we say that it’s going to take a lot of work. On the other hand, if you work with a professional security company, they will handle the installation and ensure that all areas are monitored. Another thing is that should you encounter problems with the system, they are typically covered under warranty. With DIY, however, everything is all on you.



Insufficient Support



When you have a DIY security system, you can always call the manufacturer for support. Still, it’s not going to be that easy, especially if you purchased the security system from somewhere else. You need to ensure that the manufacturer has good customer service; otherwise, it’s most likely you’ll be on your own the minute you receive the product.

The bottom line is that DIY security systems are not ideal for commercial properties. It’s important to invest in a high-quality security system from a reputable security agency to get the best results. This is essential to protect your assets, so make sure to set aside funds for an excellent security system. Get in touch with us today for more information about the solutions we offer.

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