An associate recently shared an introductory email he received from a telecommunications company offering its services in the anticipation of an upcoming move.
In addition to handling the bells and whistles involved with telephones and cabling, the sender explicitly stated that the company specializes in installing and removing building security infrastructure, ranging from alarms to access controls.
The security bullet point raised a red flag for me, and I said as much to the business owner who received the email. Telecoms and IT companies are notorious for launching security divisions without the expertise – and, most importantly, the credentials – to back them up.
Here are just a few reasons to exercise caution when these “specialists” come to call:
- The credentials: This is the big one. When vetting companies for security, carefully review all certifications and check to make certain each is licensed as a security systems installer in your state. In Maryland, every company installing security systems – and every employee of that company – is supposed to be state licensed with federal and state background checks. However, far too many IT and Telecom companies simply start offering security services without the proper licenses. Unfortunately, thanks to an influx of DIY projects, the issue has gotten out of hand. At this point, there may be little that the state can do to rectify the problem.
- The service: Telecom companies have a lot to offer. Their size, alone, allows them to offer bundled and packaged deals that deliver Internet, cable television, telephone service, and – apparently – security solutions on top of everything else. However, if you’ve ever been stuck on hold for four hours with a cable company representative – then you’re well aware of the limits to customer service offered by these monolithic companies. Add to that the time you spent mashing buttons in the hopes of speaking to a real human being, and the excruciating time windows you’re ultimately offered (“How does between 3 a.m. and noon sound on the 32nd of Octember?”) – and it becomes clear that telecom and IT outfits are not ideal companies for security.
- The personnel: Similar to concerns regarding optimal service, your IT company most likely does not have the dedicated manpower to provide a meticulous security system install, not to mention the maintenance that may be required to keep things running properly. It is highly unlikely that they will be able to offer 24-7 systems monitoring, either, and thus unable to swiftly respond to emergencies and/or break-ins.
When it comes to implementing security systems for your business, ask yourself: Can you really afford to take chances?
Or look at it this way: if you needed a new roof on your home, would you hire a paving company? Probably not.
Hiring a professional who specializes in the job is always the right decision.
Secom’s security team has more than 50 years of design, installation, and service experience, and we regularly provide businesses and government agencies throughout the nation with state-of-the-art security solutions. Our true open architecture approach ensures our clients are never trapped into operating proprietary equipment or software. We also offer 24-hour customer service and never subcontract installation work.
Contact us today to learn more and be sure to ask about our in-house financing.