Of course we think that we can out-perform and out-service any of our competitors, but regardless of who you hire there are a few things you should know about how to choose a security company you do business with such as these key questions:
Are They Properly Licensed?
Many states such as Massachusetts and Connecticut have laws that require companies who install security systems to be licensed. Here are the official requirements:
MA Security Systems Requirements
In Massachusetts, a company engaging in the business of installing security systems must have the following licenses:
- An Electrical Contractors license properly surrendered in the company's name. This license is most commonly a Class C - "Systems Contractor's" license, but a Class A - "Master Electrician's" license is also permissible. For reference, our Systems Contractor's License number is 3725 C1.
- An S-License issued by the Department of Public Safety. For reference, our S License number is SS CO 000463. Verify our license Here. Make sure you select "Security Systems - S-License" for "License Type." Then type "SSCO-000463" in the License Number field to find it.
- Though not required, it would be good idea to use a company that is a member of the Massachusetts Systems Contractors Association. Membership in that organization requires a company to abide by the MSCA code of ethics.
In addition, staff members of a properly licensed security company must meet the following requirements:
- Technicians installing security systems must be licensed electricians. They can either be Class B - "Journeyperson Electricians" or Class D - "Systems Technicians."
- All staff members must have a Certificate of Clearance issued by the Department of Public Safety. This requirement applies to technicians, administrators, office personnel, salesmen, etc. Any individual who is on that company's Federal Form 941 filing must have a Certificate of Clearance. Make sure you ask the salesman coming to your home to see his Certificate of Clearance to ensure their company is properly following the licensing law.
MA Locksmith Services Requirements
Massachusetts does not have any licensing laws regulating Locksmiths. However, it would be prudent to see if a locksmith you're considering using is a member of the Massachusetts Locksmiths Association.
CT Security Systems Requirements
In Connecticut, a company engaging in the business of installing security systems must have the following licenses:
- An Electrical Contractors license. This license can be any one of the following types: E-1 Unlimited Electrical Contractor, C-5 Limited Electrical Contractor, or L-5 Limited Electrical Contractor. For reference, our C-5 Limited Electrical Contractor License is ELC.0194904-C5. It can be verified by going to the CT License Lookup Website and entering our number.
- Though not required, it would be good idea to use a company that is a member of the Connecticut Alarm and Systems Integrators Association. Membership in that organization requires a company to maintain a high level of conduct under a Code of Ethics and render services at the highest level of quality.
In addition, staff members of a properly licensed security company must meet the following requirements:
- Technicians installing security systems must be licensed electricians. They can be any one of the following types: E-2 - "Unlimited Electrical Journeyperson", C-6 - "Limited Electrical Journeyperson", or L-6 - "Limited electrical Journeyperson."
CT Locksmith Services Requirements
Unlike Massachusetts, Connecticut DOES have licensing laws regulating Locksmiths.
- Each individual locksmith is required to obtain a License issued by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection in order to perform Locksmith Services.
If you want the full laws and regulations these requirements were taken from please check our Licensing Source page.
Are They Properly Insured?
It's a good idea to ask any service provider you hire to give you a Certificate of Liability Insurance. To obtain a copy of ours, please call 413-SECURITY (413-732-8748) and ask for the Accounting Department. For general reference purposes we maintain the following insurance products:
General Liability Insurance w/ Errors & Omissions
- Each Occurrence - $1,000,000
- Damage to Rented Premises (ea. occurrence) - $100,000
- Med Exp. (Any one person) - $1,000
- Personal & Advertising Injury - $1,000,000
- General Aggregate - $2,000,000
- Products - Completed Operations aggregate - $1,000,000
- Automobile Liability Insurance - $1,000,000 per accident
- Workers Compensations and Employer's Liability (ea. accident) - $500,000
Are They Local?
Shopping locally keeps money local and helps provide local jobs. In addition, locally owned companies can be much easier to work with to solve issues. Good luck trying to speak to the owner of one of the nation brands. With Northeast Security Solutions, our ownership is very accessible if you need to speak to them. Northeast Security Solutions also supports many local charities and organizations.
Are They True Systems Integrators?
Many locksmith companies can't install an alarm system or surveillance cameras. Most alarm companies don't offer locksmith services such as key control or door hardware solutions. Using a true System Integrator minimizes "buck-passing" between suppliers and ensures that the various systems work together to provide your overall security level.