Puget Sound Alarm

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They came to the house the following day to set up the system for monitoring. Despite the phone interface being poorly wired (internet phone), they were able to get the alarm hooked into the new phone system (I am told the phone company and Comcast use opposite wiring configurations). I was shown how to use the alarm and they replaced batteries in the pre-existing sensors as needed. We discussed additional sensors and monitoring and set up a visit for the following day. There was no additional charge for the visit/service aside from the monthly monitoring fee. PSA returned the following day (as scheduled) to add additional sensors (one motion, one additional smoke/heat sensor, and a new panel to accommodate the additional wireless channels needed for a wireless keyfob (they gave us credit for the existing panel they replaced). I questioned the lousy location of the pre-existing alarm box (in the garage) which ADT seems to prefer for ease of access vs. security. (As mentioned in previous reviews, they refrained from pointing out the poor security practice of their competitors despite my egging them on) They discussed the options for moving/rewiring the box to a more secure, interior location. We decided to schedule this project for a later date, so without being asked they placed an additional sensor on the alarm control box that would trip if it was tampered with (no additional charge). Very pleasant, very professional, very punctual and the only charges we received were for additional alarm hardware and the monitoring service. They answered questions directly and did not look to push additional options/monitoring that our property didn't require. We've been using them for several months now and we are still VERY pleased. When we get a low-battery alert, PSA rings the house (at an appropriate time of day) to make sure that we know which battery to change. If I open/tamper with a sensor (e.g. to replace a battery) I can expect a phone call within the minute to be verify that it was indeed an authorized person messing with the sensor. They are always polite, courteous and professional on the phone as well. The personal touch of the local monitoring center is very welcome.

We have generally been satisfied with our system since it was installed. When one or two window sensors malfunctioned some years ago, the service team came out and repaired them. A year or so ago, the siren on the alarm stopped working. For that reason, the alarm was sometimes tripped without our realizing it. We spoke to the monitoring service at the time of these false alarms and explained the problem. Each time we were told, "I will write this up and have them call to schedule a service call." We have never been contacted. Two weeks ago I called explicitly to request service. Besides the repair, I would like to have some changes made to the system. I got the same "I will write this up..." response, but have yet to hear from anyone. I came back to AL specifically to find a new home security system and was surprised to see how highly rated this company was.

Tom arrived on time to discuss home security options. I was surprised to hear that there were actually other alarm companies aside from ADT and Brinks (thanks to Angie's List). I was drawn to PSA because of an earlier AL report noting that Tom didn't slam the competition. And this was also the case on our call. He presented various options, made sound recommendations, and we had a deal. The estimate I thought to be extremely fair and reasonable. They set everything up in about 4 hours (all family members). We had a couple of false alarms, which they responded to accordingly (and graciously). They were great to deal with and I believe we got excellent value for our money.

I called Mike on the 6th and we talked about my existing system and what my options would be to replace it. He knew exactly which system would be compatible with the one I already had and at the end of our call asked me if I wanted a copy of our conversation with a quote. After the call, I felt this was a guy knew what he was talking about. After searching several other places, and getting a review of the system, I called Mike to get on their calendar, since he said it would probably be two weeks. He called me back and asked if the 7th would work for me. They came out exactly when they said they would and with three of them it only took 2 hours. We had recently called another alarm specialist to find out what was wrong with one of motion detectors and paid $150 for the service call only to told he couldn't find the problem. Mike's company knew immediately what it was and replaced it. They also cleaned up when they were done! I highly recommend them!

Tom came out and gave me a bid in September; he was timely, helpful, and not rushed. He also didn't slam the competition (like some of the other people who came to give estimates). He didn't try to up sell me to cellular or a full wireless system (both options are more expensive, and not really needed for my situation). He was thoughtful about how to handle my 2 very agile cats (motion-detector-wise). When I called him a week later, after getting a few other bids and learning more, he was gracious and answered all my questions. I decided to go with them because it's a local, family-run business, well respected by Angie's List, and cost competitive. For the install, the crew (comprising two of his sons) showed up on time, and did a very professional job. They carefully set the window sensors in discrete locations, maneuvering around odd cabinetry and trim. They hard-wired as much as they could. They swept up, turned off lights, and were polite. I am very pleased.

Tom came on time, was very helpful and explained what he thought was necessary and didn't give us a "hard sell". They showed up on time. Tom explained the system and how to work it. They forgot to clean up some wiring and Tom returned immediately to correct the error. I am confident that if I have any problem they will respond quickly. Several years ago we used a family company that Puget Sound took over and we always got good service from them so we figured we can't go wrong. I called a few customer references and they are all pleased with their service. Also the monthly service rate is reasonable $24.50 per month for 5 years optional lock in.

I HAVE BEEN USING PSA SINCE I MOVED TO THE AREA 5 1/2 YEARS AGO. THEY GENERALLY DO A GREAT JOB, AND ARE RESPONSIVE. MY ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT THEY DIDN'T LEAVE A MANUAL ON HOW TO USE THE SYSTEM, AND WHEN I CALLED SEVERAL TIMES TO ASK FOR ONE THEY OFFERED TO TALK ME THROUGH WHATEVER I NEEDED TO DO. I FINALLY FOUND ONE ONLINE FROM THE MANUFACTURER. BUT I OBVIOUSLY WASN'T FRUSTRATED ENOUGH TO CHANGE PROVIDERS.

THEY ARE GREAT. I CALLED AND THEY CAME THE NEXT DAY ON A WEEKEND BECAUSE I WAS LEAVING TOWN. THEY DID THE INSTALLATION OF MY WHOLE ALARM SYSTEM AND MONITOR IT AS WELL.

EXCELLENT ALARM COMPANY. ALARM IS GOOD QUALITY, BILLING PROMPT, GOOD COMMUNICATION ABOUT CHANGE IN LAWS ABOUT ALARMS AND WHEN WE HAVE HAD AN ALARM GO OFF, THEY DO A GOOD JOB OF CALLING US BEFORE REPORTING.