Don’t Get “Sold”: 5 Security Upsells You Don’t Need

To avoid being “sold” on a system you don’t need, watch out for these commonly overpriced or unnecessary features:

1. Proprietary Touchscreen Panels

Most companies charge $200–$500 for a wall-mounted tablet. In 2026, these are largely redundant since your phone, tablet, or existing smart display (like a Google Nest Hub) can do the same thing for free.

2. Basic Feature Paywalls

Beware of brands that lock standard hardware features, like 24-hour video history or even basic smartphone alerts, behind a monthly subscription. If the hardware can record to an SD card but the company forces you into a cloud plan to see it, you’re being overcharged. A.S.C. offers a cellphone application for free.

3. Redundant “Smart” Sensors

• Brand-Specific Smoke/CO Detectors: Companies often charge double the price for a “smart” smoke detector. You can often get the same result by using a cheaper “listener” sensor that alerts your system when your existing (and code-required) smoke alarms go off.
  
• Excessive Motion Sensors: In smaller layouts, entry sensors on doors and windows are more reliable. High-end motion sensors are often upsold for rooms that are already covered by cameras.
  

4. Professional Installation Fees

Many “legacy” companies charge $99–$200 just to send a tech to stick sensors on your wall with double-sided tape. Most modern wireless systems are designed for 30-minute DIY setup. (Note: If you want true long-term security, invest in hardwired commercial-grade installations that don’t rely on tape or battery swaps).

5. Long-Term Monitoring Contracts

The biggest “racket” is the 3-to-5-year contract. If you try to cancel early, companies often demand 75% to 100% of the remaining balance. Stick to month-to-month plans to keep the leverage in your hands. Or you can call A.S.C. and we will bill you quarterly for 24 months, with an option for an additional year upon your system’s 24-month anniversary date.

Proprietary systems (like SimpliSafe, Xfinity, Vivint, or Telus) use hardware specifically programmed to work only with their own software and monitoring centers. This “lock-in” prevents you from switching to a cheaper or local monitoring company without replacing the entire control panel.

The Problem

• Locked Hardware: The main panel and sometimes the sensors use encrypted signals that other companies cannot “read” or “take over.”
  
• Installer Codes: Some companies lock the system’s back-end with a private code, so even if the hardware is standard (like Honeywell), a new tech can’t reprogram it.
  
• Paperweights: If you cancel your subscription, the equipment often loses most of its “smart” functionality, essentially becoming a local noisemaker.
  

How to Escape

1. Hybrid Takeover: A new company may be able to keep your old sensors by installing a “takeover module” that translates their signals to a new, non-proprietary panel.
   
2. Installer Code Request: If you own the gear, you can legally ask your current provider for the installer code to unlock it, though they may resist.
   
3. Go Non-Proprietary: For your next system, look for “open architecture” brands like Qolsys*, DSC, or Resideo (Honeywell). Any alarm company in the country can monitor these, giving you the freedom to shop around for better rates. *Qolsys newer versions are encrypted to Telus/Alarm.com, so be careful what you say YES to.