The short answer is, yes, home security systems are effective. Systems effectively do all of the following:
- Keeping burglars who don't want to be caught from even attempting to break in
- Scaring would-be burglars away with loud alarms. Exterior and hard-to-reach alarms may be more effective
- Identifying thieves when home security cameras are added
In 2019 there were about 1.1 million burglaries reported in the US, about 702,000 of which are residential. That number has been declining, and one research paper finds that home security systems and alarms are helping to reduce burglary. The average loss was $2,661, but that number may be much lower or higher for some people. About half of these reports led to an arrest, and about one-third of reports are eventually solved.
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Reducing Break-In Attempts
The best way to reduce your risk is to prevent the crime from even starting. Multiple scientific studies and surveys show that home security systems are highly effective, especially when home security signs are present and easy to see. Our best evidence probably comes from a study done by UNC Charlotte surveying hundreds of convicted burglars. Researchers found that 83% of convicted burglars would try to determine if there was an alarm before proceeding, and 60% would look for another target immediately. One popular survey of unincarcerated (and still active) burglars found that the vast majority would much rather avoid homes completely if there was a home security system present. A widely-cited semi-scientific analysis also found that home security systems help to reduce burglary by 300%.
Chasing Would-Be Burglars Off
According to one study, if an alarm sounded, only 13 percent would definitely continue with the burglary attempt, and even then at a more rushed pace. Some said they might continue anyway, depending on the type of alarm, volume, perceived quality of the target, immediately-visible valuables, and whether anyone around seemed to be paying attention.
Identifying Burglars
If a bold burglar isn't afraid of an alarm, sometimes a camera will be the tipping point. Roughly 40% of burglars said they would avoid homes with any kind of camera. Not quite as good as an alarm, but having both is best. If nothing else works, at least a camera can help you identify the person, prevent them from committing future crimes, and maybe get some of your stuff back. It might not be as hard as you think, as only 28% of burglaries are committed by strangers.
Why Aren't Alarms and Cameras 100% Effective?
First, many people don't arm their alarms. A sign may deter some, but some burglars know most alarms won't actually sound. In fact, many robberies occur after criminals test unlocked doors and windows. A window sensor won't help if your window is open. Second, some alarms are simply too quiet, or sound like car alarms that regularly go off on some streets. A more effective alarm might be a loud voice proclaiming the intrusion. Finally, some people might not be deterred by anything, possibly due to a drug addiction or mental illness.
Even the best system won't chase 100% of people away, which is why we recommend a system with 24/7 monitoring. If you're not home, you can be assured that someone will respond, even if your phone is on silent or you're busy. If you are home, you'll want someone to notify the police immediately while taking steps to protect yourself.