ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area security system?

I had a client recently ask me if I could install a security system. I have never installed one before but I've done other low voltage systems(fire alarm,energy management) being primarily a line voltage guy. I was wondering is there anyone here that does these? How diffcult are they? Untill I find out more I'm not sure if I want to tackle this or not. Any input would be appreciated.

You might want to check for local regulations. In my area you need a special license to install security. There may be special bonding or insurance required also.

"Security" is a word that means many different things to different folks. While the technical part isn't too difficult, there are a few things to consider:

Various insurers, and others, have their requirements before they will "approve" the system, or give the discount;
System components are often brand-specific.

False alarms are far more to be avoided than the system not being "sensitive enough."

Finally, a chat with your insurer may be in order. Let there be a loss suffered- even years from now, long after you've stopped maintaining it, and you're sure to be among those sued.

While the trade press occasionally gushes about all the business in "security," there is a reason alarm installers earn less than electricians!

Same way it is in FL. Need a license to do that kind of stuff. All home security installers need to have extensive background checks and such.

I'd just pass on this opportunity.

I guess the unanswered question here is: is this a design/build opportunity, or has a security system been designed (drawn & sealed by an engineer)? If the design is done and you are just the procurer and installer, you are not responsible for more than proper installation. These things are a little like FA work, the trickiest part (once the layout and design work is done) is the programming, startup & test.

If this is a design / build project for the security system, I'd either locate an engineer or design specialist or decline the opportunity. More liability than you probably want to have handed to you. Tell the client you'd need a consultant engineer and the cost will have to be added to the project.

Out west here, alarm & low voltage installers make less than wiremen, and they operate under a different license (C7, I think). A regular electrical contractors license (C10) covers alarm work as well - in other words, a C10 electrical contractor does not need a C7 license to do alarm work, and they can hire wiremen or sound/alarm techs to do the installation work.

Radar