10 Realities Of Home Security Systems That Prove You're Better Off Dead Than Owning One

5. Alarm Companies Claim Zero Liability In Their Customer Contracts

The awkward moment when the alarm salesman hands you a pen to sign the contract and seal the deal. Somewhere in the back of your mind, even if you don't ask, is the question, "So in the case of a real break in where the system fails, you guys are liable, right?" Guess again and take a closer look at the fine print before signing. Alarm companies claim zero liability in their contracts for anything that may happen. In addition, they will usually write legally binding clauses that ensure they are not liable for any damage the system may do to the residence. Is it really that surprising? If alarm companies offered to pay the damages for every home they protected they would quickly go out of business. Some companies will offer to cover part of a customer's insurance deductible, but even then there are strict rules for what qualifies. For instance, if the system was turned off during the break in or failed to send a signal (alarm companies consider it the homeowner's responsibility to make sure it is communicating with them at all times) the unlucky customer will get nothing. Don't try suing either. That signature on the dotted line destroys any case you think you may have.