Home security systems - 3 surprising misconceptions

Why is a camera alone often not enough? We reveal three surprising findings from the field - and what really matters when it comes to burglary protection.

Red wooden door with broken glass pane and worn metal door handle; the damage allows a view of the back of the door and another handle.

When it comes to protecting their own homes, many people rely on modern security systems. However, time and again, we find in our consulting services that certain assumptions don't correspond to reality – and have potentially fatal consequences. Here are three common misconceptions that often surprise homeowners.

An installed alarm system is sufficient

"The alarm system goes off when someone breaks in - that's fine."

Many people think that once an alarm system is installed, the house is secure. But technology alone doesn't provide protection. Without sensible placement, proper activation, and a well-thought-out overall concept, the security system remains incomplete.

What really protects:

An alarm system should be part of a coordinated system – including motion detectors, glass break sensors, and access control. It's also important to link it to an alarm center or app notification.

Not every camera sees everything

"We have a camera - that should be enough, right?"

We often hear this statement. But just because a camera is installed somewhere does not automatically mean that it reliably captures the critical area.

Typical errors:

  • The camera is too high or incorrectly aligned.
  • The viewing angle is too narrow.
  • Backlighting, shadows or a lack of night vision distort the image.
  • Sensitive areas such as entrances, cash registers or storage areas are not covered.

➡️ Our recommendation:

Before you install a camera, we analyze the risks together - and then define where and how cameras actually provide added value. This not only creates a sense of control, but also a real overview and preservation of evidence.

The system always reacts correctly

Technology can only react to what it detects. False alarms, blind spots, or poorly configured motion detectors can severely limit the protective effect in an emergency.

Our tip:

Rely on systems with alarm verification and combine sensors with video surveillance. This way, you can distinguish real threats from false alarms – and respond automatically and appropriately.

I get immediate help in an emergency

Many are surprised that a triggered alarm doesn't automatically trigger an intervention by the police or security services. Without a connection to a certified emergency call and service control center (ESC), the signal usually fizzles out ineffectively.

That’s why a response plan is crucial:

Who will be notified in an emergency? How will the response be handled? Will a silent alarm be triggered? – A professional security system also includes clear procedures for the event of an alarm.

There is no ready-made “security system”

"I want a good system - what does it cost?"

The expectation: There is a standard solution that works everywhere. The reality: Every building, every use, every threat situation is different.

Typical errors:

  • The focus is on the technology, not the analysis.
  • Off-the-shelf systems do not cover all risks.
  • Important interfaces (e.g. to IT or building automation) are missing.

➡️ Our recommendation:

At homesecurity, there are no package solutions - only individual systems. We first analyze what is really necessary - and then plan what protects.

Safety starts with a clear view - not with a product

Whether alarm system, camera or access control: technology is just a tool. The decisive factor is how it is used - and how well it fits your situation.

That's why our approach is: consulting before technology. And implementation with vision.