Survey Finds Insurance Carriers Offer Major Discounts for Home Alarm Systems

DALLAS, Feb. 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The nation's insurance companies are encouraging homeowners to install monitored security systems by offering them substantial discounts on homeowner's insurance.

"A survey of the 10 largest insurance companies offering homeowners coverage found premium discounts up to 20 percent if a home is equipped with a monitored alarm system," said Dom D'Ascoli, president of the Electronic Security Association. "The discounts can be substantial enough to pay a portion of the monitoring costs or installation of the system," said D'Ascoli.    

"The majority of insurance companies offer discounts for alarm systems," said Michael Barry, spokesperson for the Insurance Information Institute. "Homeowners should check with their individual carrier to determine the amount and availability of the discounts."

According to a study by Dr. Simon Hakim of Temple University, "An alarmed single family home is more than 60 percent less likely to be burgled than a similar home without an alarm."

A comprehensive two year study in Newark, New Jersey by Rutgers UniversitySchool of Criminal Justice, demonstrates why insurance companies are offering the discounts. Described as the most comprehensive study of its kind, the team of Rutgers researchers used sophisticated in-depth research techniques to eliminate the variables that impact crime rates and to focus solely on the impact alarm systems have on residential burglaries.

"Thanks to modern technology alarm systems are more affordable, versatile and dependable than ever before," said D'Ascoli. "The Rutgers study showed that these technical innovations have increased the availability of home security systems to middle class homeowners and helped reduce crime."

In addition to discouraging burglars, modern alarm systems also reduce the damage caused by fires.  Fire and lightning claims are almost 10 times higher than claims for burglaries and thefts according to statistics from the Insurance Information Institute. "The alarm's ability to notify the fire department whether or not anyone is at home or able to call for help is vital in reducing the cost of these claims and protecting building occupants," said D'Ascoli.  

About ESA

Established in 1948, the Electronic Security Association (ESA) is the largest trade association representing the electronic life safety and security industry. Member companies install, integrate and monitor intrusion and fire detection, video surveillance and electronic access control systems for commercial, residential, industrial and governmental clients. In cooperation with an alliance of chapter associations, ESA provides technical and management training, government advocacy and delivers information, advice, tools, and services that members use to grow their businesses and prosper. ESA may be reached at (888) 447-1689 or on the Web at www.ESAweb.org.

SOURCE Electronic Security Association