Most homeowners shopping for security come in with the same question: “Should I get wired or wireless?” The honest answer depends on the property — but the bigger choices matter more.
The decisions that actually matter
Monitored vs unmonitored. A monitored alarm sends a signal to a 24/7 monitoring station when triggered. An unmonitored alarm just makes noise. Monitored is the standard — most insurance discounts require it, and the response time during an actual incident is the whole point. We install only ULC-listed monitored systems.
Wired vs wireless sensors. Modern wireless sensors are reliable, encrypted, and self-report low battery. They’re appropriate for most retrofits. Wired is slightly more reliable and avoids battery replacement, making sense in new construction where cable can be pulled during framing. The difference matters less than you’d think.
Local vs national company. A local company installs, monitors, and services from the same team. National companies sub all of that out. We’re biased here — Wenner SmartSecure is the local Vancouver Island option — but the operational difference is real.
DIY vs professional. DIY systems (Ring, SimpliSafe, etc.) can work for renters or small spaces. For a larger property or a homeowner who wants integration with the rest of their systems, the gap between DIY and professional is large.
What we recommend
For most Vancouver Island homes: monitored alarm with a mix of door/window contacts and motion sensors, smoke and CO monitoring, one or two outdoor cameras at primary entries, and ULC-listed local monitoring. Cost typically $2,000–$5,000 installed plus $35–$50/month monitoring.
For larger properties: add perimeter cameras, environmental sensors (water leak, freeze), and access control if there’s regular contractor or staff entry.
Read our SmartSecure overview or request a free assessment — we walk the property, identify real exposure, and quote a system that fits.