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    How To Make Your Moving Experience Easier

    Posted on by Taylor

    If you’re in the process of moving, security systems may not be your top priority. After all, you already have enough to worry about – finding a moving company, getting everything packed, making sure everything with your old house is in order and so forth. However, security for a new home is not something that should be overlooked. You want to be sure your family and property will be fully protected against break-ins, fire and the wide range of risks every homeowner faces these days.

    The good news is that if you are moving to Maricopa County, Arizona, Titan Alarm Inc. is available to handle all your home security needs. We can design and install a fully integrated security system for a new house featuring advanced smart technology. We also have the expertise to recommend the best security system for your needs and budget. We’ll handle all the details so you can focus more of your time and energy on the moving process.

    Video Surveillance for 24/7 Property Monitoring

    Our security systems for a new home can include IP video surveillance cameras featuring cutting-edge wireless technology for maximum placement flexibility. You will get the benefit of clear HD images along with the ability to view live and recorded camera feeds at any time via your smartphone. Adding intuitive video verification sensors can ensure a prompt response by law enforcement and virtually eliminate the possibility of a false alarm.

    Fire, Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

    A devastating house fire can occur at any time. Titan Alarm can install reliable fire alarms and smoke detectors that will provide the early warning to you and first responders that can save your home – and more importantly – the lives of your family. Detectors are also available that can alert you to the presence of carbon monoxide, that invisible, odorless but extremely deadly gas that kills hundreds of Americans each year.

    Motion and Intrusion Sensors

    The best way to stop intruders is to detect their presence before they can enter your home. We offer a wide variety of motion detection devices that will provide immediate alerts to you and local law enforcement should an uninvited guest attempt to breach your property. These devices can also be designed to trigger your exterior lighting system to frighten intruders away.

    Energy Management Solutions

    Titan Alarm is your headquarters for technologically advanced energy management systems that can help you reduce your home heating, cooling and electricity costs. These systems allow you to establish automated schedules for when your HVAC system and lights go on and off and make immediate adjustments with your smartphone or tablet.

    Contact Titan Alarm Inc. to Explore Your Home Security System Options

    Titan Alarm has more than a decade of providing state-of-the-art, fully integrated security solutions for homeowners in the Phoenix area and beyond. If you’re planning a move to Maricopa County and you need a security system for your new home, Contact us to learn more about how we can make your moving experience so much easier.

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    Best Smart Home Technology for 2016

    Posted on by Taylor

    best-smart-home-technologies

    When you hear the term smart technology, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the smartphone you use on a daily basis. You might not know that this same intuitive, user-friendly technology can be found in a wide range of household products and devices that are changing the way people live. Here are a few of the many gadgets that represent that the latest advancements in smart home technology as of 2016.

    Robot Vacuum Cleaners

    A robot vacuum cleaner can eliminate the drudgery associated with this essential household chore. Vacuums equipped with robotic smart home technology do not require human operation and are capable of detecting and navigating obstacles and even automatically emptying their dustbins.

    Smart Refrigerators

    Are you tired of having to throw away long-forgotten perishable items that seem to get lost inside your refrigerator? A smart refrigerator includes a touch-screen monitor that interacts with a smartphone app. This allows you to keep an inventory of fresh vegetables, dairy products and other perishable items, while also getting access to useful information regarding the refrigerator’s energy consumption.

    Wireless Lightbulbs

    A wireless LED lighting system can be a big energy-saver – you also get the convenience of controlling your entire home lighting system via your smartphone. You will even be able to set up a schedule for when your lights go on and off, which is an important home security benefit.

    Smart Thermostats

    Smart thermostats also provide an excellent way to keep your home energy costs under control. They have the ability to work with your home heating and cooling system to automatically adjust the temperature to suit your preferences, and you can also manually increase or decrease the temperature at any time with your smartphone.

    Wireless Door/Window Sensors

    Wireless door and window sensors detect intruders who attempt to gain access to your home via these vulnerable points of entry. They also send immediate text and/or email alerts that allow for a prompt response when a break-in occurs.

    Wireless Security Cameras

    Smart security cameras offer the advantage of wireless connectivity so you can place them exactly where you need them. You can also use your smartphone to monitor your camera feeds remotely – you can keep a close watch on your home while you’re at work, running errands or traveling.

    How to Upgrade My Home to a Smart Home

    If you live in the Phoenix, Arizona, area, Titan Alarm Inc. has the know-how to transform your home into a smart home. We can work with you to develop a fully integrated smart home technology system that incorporates security solutions such as video cameras, intrusion detection devices and lighting systems, as well as a variety of other home automation gadgets. We’re also the best smart home installation provider in the area – we can set up your entire system, as well as deliver timely maintenance and repair service when needed.

    Contact Titan Alarm for fast, efficient smart home installation in Arizona. We’ll be happy to schedule a no-obligation in-home consultation at your convenience.

    Learn More About Smart Home Technology

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    Types of Construction Site Crimes

    Posted on by Taylor

    Construction Site Crimes

    Crime at construction sites poses a constant problem. The vulnerability of these sites makes them highly susceptible to theft and other criminal activity that result in millions of dollars lost to construction companies and contractors each year. In this post, we will explore some of the most common types of construction site crimes, as well as provide a few helpful construction site crime-prevention tips.

    Theft

     Construction-site crime statistics routinely show theft to be the top threat to construction company owners and contractors. The lack of adequate security measures can serve as an open invitation to thieves who help themselves to unprotected machinery, tools, and equipment. The high employee turnover that is commonplace in the industry can also contribute to the rampant theft at construction sites.

    Vandalism

     The list of construction crimes also includes vandalism. Heavy equipment, such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, and skid steer loaders, is a prime target for vandals, particularly during the nighttime hours when the site is unoccupied and the darkness offers concealment to the perpetrators. It is also not uncommon for the building under construction to be covered with graffiti or be damaged in more substantial ways by vandals.

    Failure to Comply With Health and Safety Regulations

    Construction industry crime can also take the form of a violation of worker safety laws. Companies that do not take adequate safety measures could be found negligent if unsafe practices cause or contribute to an injury or illness. This could result in substantial fines or even the filing of criminal charges against the negligent parties.

    Helpful Construction Site Crime-Prevention Steps

     There are a number of steps your company can take to limit your risk for construction site crimes and catch criminals:

    • Identify and Track Assets and Property:

      Emblazoning all equipment with your company’s logo can help deter thieves. Consider developing some type of numbering system to help you inventory and keep track of your assets.

    • Ramp up Gate Security:

      Many larger construction sites have fences with gates to control and monitor the entry and exit of personnel and vehicles. Keep the number of gates to a minimum, and if practical, enlist the services of uniformed security guards to check vehicles. Be sure the gates are closed and locked when not in use.

    • Provide Adequate Lighting:

      Keeping your site well-lit at night is another extremely effective way to prevent construction crime. Key areas of focus for your lighting should include office trailers and equipment and material storage yards, as well as any buildings under construction.

    Enlisting the Services of a Professional Commercial Security Company

    The best way to fully protect your site against construction crime is by enlisting the services of an experienced, reputable security company. If you operate construction sites in the Phoenix, Arizona, area, Titan Alarm Inc. can provide an integrated security solution you can rely on. Our commercial security systems include video surveillance, access control, intrusion detection and video verification. We also have the expertise to provide complete design and installation service.

    Contact us to learn more about the best ways to prevent construction site crimes at your jobsites.

    Learn More About Commercial Security

    How To Prepare for Next Summer’s Heat

    Posted on by Taylor

    The beautiful Phoenix, AZ area can be one of the most pleasant places to live in the entire country — if you don’t mind a little heat! With an average high temperature of over 100°F from June through September, even the most avid sun worshipers could find the summer heat a bit on the oppressive side. Here are some helpful tips you can start working on now to help you beat the heat next summer in Arizona, with a focus on keeping your home cool and comfortable.

    Install Solar Screens

    Did you know that approximately half of the heat that enters your home comes in through the windows? However, one way to beat the heat in Phoenix is by installing solar screens on your windows, particularly those facing south and west. As an added benefit, solar screens will protect your home against interior sun damage. The screens can be removed during the cooler times of the year.

    Use Awnings to Block the Sun

    Strategically placed awnings can reduce your Phoenix home’s cooling energy requirements by 20 percent or more. The two basic types of awnings are fixed and adjustable, with the latter providing the added flexibility of being able to adjust the level of shade throughout the day. As with solar screens, awnings are most effective when placed on the south and west sides of your home.

    Let Ceiling Fans Do the Work

    How can you keep your house cold with ceiling fans? Use of ceiling fans can complement your air conditioning system by dispersing the chilled air throughout a room. You’re also likely to find that you can set your thermostat a little higher, which can help to reduce your energy costs. Since ceiling fans are designed for use in specific rooms, you can turn them off when you exit the room, which also lowers your energy consumption.

    Provide Shade for Your AC Unit

    If you are installing a new AC unit, try to place in a location that receives shade during the heat of the day. Because your unit won’t have to work as hard, this can increase its efficiency by as much as 10 percent.

    Plant Trees

    While planting trees won’t pay immediate dividends since it will obviously take some time for them to grow, it will ultimately provide significant benefits in the long run. In addition to serving as an excellent source of natural shade, the evaporating moisture from the leaves helps to cool the air that surrounds your home. The best types of trees are ones that lose their leaves during the winter, as this will allow the sun to warm your home during those colder months.

    Contact Titan Alarm to Learn More About How to Beat the Heat in Phoenix

    Knowing how to stay cool in Arizona during the summer can be a challenge, but these tips can help you beat the heat — and reduce your energy bills in the process. Feel free to contact us at Titan Alarm to learn more about how a home energy management system can give you greater control over your home’s climate during summer and throughout the year.

    Learn More About Energy Management

    Best Places to Raise A Family throughout Arizona

    Posted on by Taylor

    So — you’ve decided that you want to live in the Phoenix, AZ area, but you’re not exactly enamored with the idea of residing within the city limits. Whether it’s due to concerns about crime, congestion, noise or pollution, the big city lifestyle might not be a good fit fo
    r you.

    But if you’re looking for the best place to raise a family around Phoenix, the good news is that there are plenty of viable opportunities in the surrounding suburbs. In this post, we’ll focus on some of the best places to raise a family in Maricopa County.

    Gilbert, AZ

     Where is the safest place to raise a family in Maricopa County? The city of Gilbert is known for its low crime rate (0.96 violent crimes and 15.8 property crimes per 1,000 citizens), despite a relatively large population base of approximately 214,000 residents.

    If you have or are planning to start a family, you’ll also be pleased to know that Gilbert places a strong emphasis on education, as evidenced by the school system’s impressive 92 percent graduation rate.

    Paradise Valley, AZ

     The aptly named Paradise Valley is routinely listed as one of the best places to raise a family in Arizona. A small, affluent town of approximately 13,700 residents, Paradise Valley is known for its quiet, picturesque neighborhoods filled with beautiful Southwest-style single-family homes. The surrounding area includes features such as the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and Echo Canyon Park, which offer ample opportunities for recreation and family fun.

    Carefree, AZ

     Another place that those who prefer small-town living are sure to find appealing is the community of Carefree. Located about 35 miles from Phoenix, Carefree was developed as a master-planned community in the 1950s and is currently home to approximately 3,500 residents. Key reasons that make Carefree one of the best places to raise a family are its low crime rate (7.39 crime per 1,000 residents), 97 percent high school graduation rate and abundance of family-oriented and cultural events.

    Cave Creek, AZ

    If you want more of a rural lifestyle for you and your family, the tiny town of Cave Creek (estimated population: 1,332) can meet your requirements. Despite its bucolic setting, Cave Creek has much to offer to people of all ages. The town offers easy access to a number of western-style amenities. You can also select from an assortment of attractive Southwest-style homes, many of which offer spectacular view of the surrounding mountains.

    Queen Creek, AZ

     Queen Creek appeals to budget-conscious families by offering one of the lowest median home prices in Maricopa County and a relatively low cost of living. This town of approximately 32,000 also offers a number of family-friendly activities, including festivals at Schnepf Farms and sporting and athletic events at the Barney Family Sports Complex.

    Let Titan Alarm, Inc. Manage Your Home Security Needs

    While you’re deciding where to raise a family around Phoenix, you’ll also want to consider your home security needs. Titan Alarm, Inc. offers a vast array of technologically advanced, cost-effective residential security solutions to homeowners throughout Maricopa County. Before you move into your new home, be sure to contact us to schedule a no-obligation home security consultation.

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    Reasons to Consider a Surveillance System for Your New Home

    Posted on by Taylor

    There’s no doubt installing a state-of-the-art home alarm system is one of the best ways to protect your family and your valuables against the wide range of security threats that exist in today’s world. In the event of a fire, an effective alarm system will also provide the timely alerts to you and first responders that can literally mean the difference between life and death.

    However, with so many security systems on the market, homeowners face this most difficult dilemma: What home security system should I buy? If you are building or moving into a new home in the Phoenix area, a Titan home alarm system is likely to be your best option.

    Why Should I Get a Titan Alarm System?

     There are a number of excellent reasons why choosing a Titan home alarm system can provide the best solution for your home security needs:

    • Wide range of cutting-edge security options: At Titan Alarm, we offer an extensive selection of the most innovative home security system products on the market, including burglar alarms, fire, CO2 and smoke detection devices, motion and intrusion sensors, video surveillance equipment, visual verification image sensors and more.
    • Get the convenience of home automation: Many of our home security solutions include home automation where you can control and monitor your various system features remotely with your mobile device — you’ll know exactly what is going on in and around your home even if you are many miles away.
    • Centralized monitoring on a 24/7 basis: Your security solutions provider should be able to offer centralized around-the-clock monitoring and alarm verification to ensure a rapid response in the event of an emergency, as well as to minimize the occurrence of false alarms. Titan Alarm home security systems feature advanced technology to make sure you always have the help you need, precisely when you need it.
    • Comprehensive system integration capabilities: The modern home security system is a series of separate features, and it requires seamless integration to ensure maximum performance. Titan Alarm has the expertise to design and install a fully integrated, easy-to-operate system that will fulfill your total home security requirements.
    • A reputable company you can trust: Not all home security solutions providers are the same. It’s critical to choose a company that understands the unique security needs of Phoenix-area homeowners — and that also has a solid reputation for quality and dependability. Titan Alarm is a locally owned and operated security company with a proven track record of providing the best security products at affordable prices, along with prompt, attentive customer support.

    Contact Titan Alarm to Learn More About What Makes Us Your Best Home Security Option

    The best way to learn more about the many benefits of installing a Titan home alarm system in your Phoenix-area home is to contact us to schedule a no-obligation security consultation today. We’ll provide the right answer to that vexing question: What home alarm system should I get?

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    Ultimate Checklist for Moving Your Business’ Office

    Posted on by Taylor

    moving-checklist-for-business

    Relocating your business can be an exciting time, but moving into a new facility can also pose quite a challenge. You need to be sure everything is in order so you can continue to provide excellent service to your customers both during and after the move. Use the following business moving checklist to help make the process a bit easier and less stressful for you, your staff and your customers.

    What to Consider When Moving a Business

    Keep in mind the following to help you determine what do do when moving a business:

    • Don’t wait until the last minute: A successful move requires careful long-term planning. Begin the planning phase approximately nine months out if possible.
    • Establish a preliminary relocation budget: Determine the amount of money you will need to fund your move and create a budget that meets your relocation requirements.
    • Conduct a comprehensive site survey and facility review: This should include a careful evaluation of key aspects such as your space, technology, communications, furniture and equipment requirements. Narrow your options to two or three suitable facilities at most.
    • Select your new facility: Finalize your site selection and begin the process of negotiating a lease with your landlord and planning any necessary site or facility improvements.
    • Plan your office layout: You should begin to evaluate this item on the checklist for moving an office premises about five months prior to your move. This includes areas such as designating office space and ordering new office furniture and equipment. This is also a good time to provide realtor information to your staff so they can begin their personal relocation preparations.
    • Implementing your move plan: When you get to the one-month mark, you should begin to put your moving plan into action. This includes taking steps such as installing your new phone system, tagging furniture and equipment and developing a new office extension directory and wall map (so your employees can find their way around when they move in). This is also a good time to do a final walk-through of your new facility to make sure everything is in order.
    • Days prior to the move: Within a few days before the move you should back up your office computers and begin to have your staff pack up their desks and workspaces. If you have a security system that requires keycard access, now is the time to pick them up and distribute new ones to your staff (assuming your new security system also features an electronic access control system).

    At this point, all the hard work and preparation should be complete, helping to make moving day as stress free as possible.

    Contact Titan Alarm for Your Business Security Needs

    If you are relocating to the Phoenix area and you’re not sure what to do when moving a business in terms of security, be sure to contact the Phoenix commercial security experts at Titan Alarm. We can design and install the most appropriate security system for your needs and budget.

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    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    East Coast to West Coast Moving Guide

    Posted on by Taylor

    moving-out-west

    What You Should Know About Moving West

    Have you dreamed of making the move from the cramped, congested East Coast to the wide-open spaces of the West? Westward expansion has been part of American heritage dating back to the 19th century, when people pulled up stakes and piled into covered wagons in search of a better life for themselves and their families.

    While the invention of the automobile allows for a faster, more comfortable journey, making the transition from east to west may not be as easy as you might think. Many who relocate west experience a bit of culture shock that requires some adjustment. What follows are some tips for moving from East Coast to West Coast that will give you some insight regarding what you can expect.

    Weather

    If you live in the Northeast, a big attraction to moving west is that you can escape the harsh, cold winters, especially if you are thinking of settling in Arizona. However, you should be prepared to deal with the heat – the average temperature in the Phoenix area during the summer months is in excess of 100 F. The good news is that you won’t have to worry about shoveling snow or driving during treacherous icy road conditions.

    Job Market

    Unless you are considering East Coast to West Coast moving to find a more hospitable place to retire, you will likely need to seek gainful employment. There is something about the spirit of the West that fosters a climate for innovation. While most are familiar with the proliferation of forward-thinking technology companies located in California’s Silicon Valley region, the Phoenix area is also known for its wide variety of job opportunities in a number of industries. In fact, Forbes magazine has projected Arizona to lead the nation in job growth in the years to come.

    Cost of Living

    Landing a high-paying job doesn’t have quite the same impact in areas where the cost of living is high. Although it varies from city to city, the cost of living on the West Coast is generally lower than in the East. Depending on where you choose to live, you may discover you have a little extra buying power to acquire those luxury items you’ve always wanted.

    Recreational Opportunities

    The more moderate year-round climate on the West Coast will definitely appeal to those who enjoy spending time outdoors. You will have plenty of opportunities to engage in extreme sports such as paragliding, rock climbing and base jumping, and the abundance of national parks that litter the western landscape allow for hiking, biking, camping or simply exploring.

    What About Moving Expenses?

    Any long-distance move can be expensive. While doing it yourself may be the cheapest way to move East Coast to West Coast and can save you a ton of money as opposed to hiring a full-service moving company, you will have to deal with the hassle and stress of transporting everything you own across the country. A convenient, cost-effective alternative to consider is hiring a self-service moving company. With this option, the company delivers a trailer to your door, gives you several days to load, then drives the trailer to your new destination.

    What about a Security System for Your New Home?

    Installing a home security system is your best defense against the threat of burglary, theft, fire and vandalism. Titan Alarm Inc. is widely regarded as the best security system provider in Phoenix Arizona, and features revolutionary home automation systems with advanced smart technology for simplified remote monitoring, video surveillance, energy management, access control and more.

    Contact Titan Alarm for more useful tips concerning moving to out west – including the selection of the right security system for your home.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

    How to Prevent Business Break-Ins

    Posted on by Taylor

    home break in spots

    If you operate a retail store or any other type of business that sells goods, keeps cash on hand or stores sensitive information, you are at a high risk of a break-in or vandalism. Even if you are covered by insurance, it might not compensate you for the totality of your loss. If a thief gains access to confidential customer information, it could lead to a loss of trust in your business that you may never be able to earn back.

    Consequently, preventing breaking and entering should be a top priority for virtually every business owner these days. What follows are a few helpful tips regarding how to prevent break-ins at your business and protect everything you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

    Provide Adequate Lighting for the Interior and Exterior

    Burglars are attracted to dark areas where the risk of detection is minimal. One of the most vital security steps any business owner can take is to keep the interior and exterior of the property lit during nighttime hours.

    Thieves will think twice about entering a property where they are easily visible to passersby. A well-lit storefront or parking lot that is ablaze in floodlights will also serve as an effective deterrent to vandalism and other criminal activity.

    Store Valuables in a Safe

    A safe offers an extra layer of defense in the event a burglar is able to defeat your other security measures. Use it to store cash, important documents and smaller, more valuable items. Choose a safe that weighs at least a ton and be sure to bolt it to a solid building structure. Place your safe in a location that is not visible from the street and provide adequate lighting for it during nighttime hours.

    Invest in an Electronic Access Control System

    While there are a number of locks that are difficult to defeat, such as pin-tumbler cylinder and deadbolts, they may not prevent a skilled, enterprising burglar from breaking in. A more reliable alternative is an electronic access control system that requires the use of a code to gain entry. A keyless access control system also eliminates the need to provide keys to employees that could easily be duplicated or fall into the wrong hands.

    Install a Security System

    A professionally installed security system equipped with cameras and motion detectors can help you and law enforcement catch burglars in the act. Visible security cameras are also an effective deterrent for preventing break-ins. Be sure to include a high-quality video surveillance system that enables you to record what is going on in key areas in and around your facility at all times.

    Titan Alarm Inc. Can Meet Your Security Requirements in the Phoenix Area

    If your business is located in the Phoenix area, the experts at Titan Alarm can provide the best commercial security system for your needs and budget. Contact us to learn more about how to prevent a business burglary at your facility and to schedule a no-obligation on-site security consultation today.

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    Questions To Ask When You Buy A Home

    Posted on by Taylor

    home-buying-questions

    10 Safety Questions to Ask Buying a New Home

    Most prospective home buyers spend a great deal of time making sure a property has the number of rooms and other amenities and features they need to live as comfortably as possible. However, many neglect to give serious consideration to one critical factor: safety. It is imperative that the home and surrounding area can offer the secure lifestyle you and your family deserve. What follows are a few important safety questions to ask before moving into a house:

    1. What is the crime rate in the neighborhood?

    Just because a neighborhood appears to be quiet and peaceful, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is free of crime. Ask your realtor if they are able to supply recent crime statistics for the neighborhood. You can also gain information by visiting websites such as crimereports.com.

    1. How recently have the door locks been changed?

    Keys can easily fall into the wrong hands, and you can never be certain that the previous owners still do not have duplicate keys in their possession. A key safety question to ask a realtor is how long it has been since the locks were changed. The most prudent course of action is to have new locks installed prior to moving in.

    1. What are the neighbors like?

    There’s a good chance the realtor has had some contact with the neighbors, so be sure to ask questions regarding what they do for a living, whether they seem to be sociable, etc.

    1. Are the appliances in good working order?

    Another of the vital safety questions to ask before buying a house concerns the condition of the household appliances. You can learn a lot on your own just by testing the burners on the stove, running the water taps and exploring the inside of the refrigerator.

    1. Are window coverings included?

    Ask your realtor whether the curtains, blinds or drapes are staying with the home. If the previous owner plans to take them, you will need to replace them to prevent passersby from seeing inside.

    1. When was the last mold test?

    Mold is a common problem in many homes these days. Another important question to ask before moving into a house is whether a mold test has been conducted within the past five to 10 years.

    1. How many fire extinguishers are on the premises?

    Every home should have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen as well as other higher fire-risk areas such as basements and attics.

    1. Are the smoke detectors working properly?

    Smoke detectors can be lifesavers in the event of a fire. It’s a good idea to test them yourself to ensure they’re working properly, as well as to change the batteries prior to moving in.

    1. Does the home have a video surveillance system?

    Yet another important question to ask before moving into a new home is whether it has any type of video surveillance system already installed.

    1. What, if any, additional security devices are included?

    Ask your realtor about the existence of additional security devices such as motion sensors and access control products.

    Contact Titan Alarm, Inc. to learn more about the safety questions to ask a realtor, particularly those pertaining to home security systems.

    Learn More About Home Security

    Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.

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