Rent or buy an alarm system - what is worthwhile?

More and more homeowners and companies in Switzerland want to protect their property with an alarm system. But this often raises a key question:

Should I rent or buy an alarm system?

Both variants have their advantages and disadvantages. In this article, you will find out which solution makes sense for your situation - whether for detached houses, apartments or business premises.

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Buying an alarm system: the classic solution

When you buy an alarm system, the system is yours. You make a one-off investment in the hardware and have it installed.

Advantages when buying

• One-off investment: No ongoing rental costs.
• Free choice of provider: You can organize maintenance and service yourself.
• Customizable: Ideal for owners who plan for the long term.

Disadvantages when buying

• High initial costs: Especially for complex systems (video surveillance, access, radio & cable combinations).
• Technical progress: After a few years, the technology is often outdated.
• Responsibility for maintenance: You are responsible for maintenance, updates and servicing.

Example of purchase costs:

For a detached house, purchase prices start at around CHF 3,500, including installation. Depending on the size and number of detectors (door/window sensors, motion detectors, cameras), this can cost up to CHF 10,000 or more.

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Rent an alarm system: flexible & worry-free

With a rental model, you pay a monthly fee. Installation, service and updates are usually included.

Advantages of renting

• No high initial investment: ideal if you want to use the capital elsewhere.
• Always up to date: replacement of technology for innovations included.‍
• System renewal: At the end of the leasing period, your security system will be renewed. This means that your system is once again up to date with the latest technology. The leasing period then starts again.
• ‍Everythingfrom a single source: installation, maintenance & service are taken care of.
• Protection when moving: Rental systems can often be easily dismantled & reinstalled.

Disadvantages of renting

• More expensive in the long term: the monthly costs add up over many years.
• Commitment to provider: Mostly multi-year contracts.
• Return: At the end of the contract, the system does not belong to you. However, the system will be replaced with a newer system if you wish to extend the contract.

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For whom is what worthwhile?

• Owner: Purchase or rental model depending on budget.
• Tenant / apartment: rental model (flexible, no owner integration necessary).
• Companies with growth: Rent (easy to expand).

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Our tip from practice

For many of our customers in Switzerland, a rental model is the best compromise: no high initial investment, ongoing support included and always the latest technology.

This means that your security system is always up to date with the latest technology and if your home or business situation changes, the system can be easily adapted.

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Is a rented alarm system less secure than a purchased one?

No. The technology is identical. On the contrary: rental models are usually continuously maintained and supplied with software updates.

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Can I buy a rented alarm system at a later date?

Depending on the provider, this is possible. It is best to address this topic during your first consultation.

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What happens when I move?

A major advantage of renting: The alarm system can often be easily dismantled and reinstalled at the new residential or business location.

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Rent or buy?

Whether you buy or rent depends on your financial goals, your living situation and your need for security. We will be happy to advise you personally on the best solution for your home or business.

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