How to take over or cancel the existing alarm system
With an alarm system in a new home, find out who monitors the panel, get the master and installer codes from the seller, then start your own account or cancel. Many accounts can't simply transfer, so plan on a new contract. Change every code, and ask your insurer about a discount of at least 5% for a burglar alarm.
How to take over an existing alarm system
The equipment on the wall came with the house, but the monitoring contract and the app usually belonged to the seller. Those are separate things. What you can do next depends on the system.
With a wired or professionally installed panel, an alarm company can look at the model, tell you if it can take over monitoring, reset the codes and test the sensors with its monitoring center. Some panels can't be taken over by another company, so ask before you commit.
With an app-based system, the seller may need to act first. Surety, for example, says its Alarm.com accounts aren't transferable. There, the seller resets the master code to the default and cancels, then you open your own account and link the panel using its 15-digit IMEI. Surety says sensors and user codes stay on the panel after cancellation, though that may differ with other providers. Do this while you can still reach the seller.
You can also decide you don't want it. In that case, ask an installer to disconnect the panel, and make sure no siren or dialer stays active.
Alarm monitoring cost and insurance discounts
| Item | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Takeover or activation fee | Varies by company; ask before you agree |
| Monthly monitoring | Varies by plan and provider; compare at least two quotes |
| Contract length | Varies; ask about early cancellation fees |
| Replacement panel or keypad | May be needed if the old one can't be taken over |
| Insurance discount, basic devices | Usually at least 5% for a burglar alarm, smoke detector or deadbolts |
| Insurance discount, advanced systems | Up to 15% or 20% at some companies for a sophisticated sprinkler system plus a monitored fire and burglar alarm |
The insurance figures come from Triple-I. Not every system qualifies, so ask your insurer what it accepts before you pay for monitoring in the hope of a discount.
How to choose who monitors the alarm system in a new home
- Start with the existing company only to learn your options, not because you have to stay.
- Ask at least one competitor if it can monitor the same panel.
- Check your state's licensing rules for alarm companies, which vary.
- Ask your city or county if alarms need a permit. Rules on permits and false alarm fees are local.
- Read the contract length and auto-renewal terms before you sign.
Questions to ask about the previous owner's alarm system
- Is the seller's contract closed, or could I end up responsible for it?
- Can you monitor this panel, or must I replace it?
- What would I pay each month, and for how long?
- Will you provide a certificate for my insurer?
- How do I put the system in test mode?
- Who gets called, in what order, if it goes off?
Red flags with an alarm system in a new home
- A salesperson at your door right after you move in, claiming your system must be upgraded.
- A long contract signed before you've seen the price in writing.
- Being told you owe the seller's balance. Ask for that in writing, and check your purchase contract.
- Old codes still working after the changeover.
- A monitoring center that still lists the seller's phone number.
How to take over or cancel alarm system service
- Identify the system
Note the keypad or panel model and any company sticker on doors, windows or the panel.
- Ask the seller for details
Get the master and installer codes, the app name and the seller's cancellation date, through your agent if needed.
- Call before you test
Contact the monitoring company first so a test doesn't send police or fire crews.
- Open your own account
Sign a new agreement, or cancel and arrange for the panel to be disconnected.
- Change every code
Delete old user codes, change the master code, and remove old app users.
- Test each sensor
With the system in test mode, open doors and windows and trip each detector, and confirm each signal was received.
- Tell your insurer
Ask what proof they need, and confirm any discount on your next bill.
Can I use the previous owner's alarm system? More answers
Can I use the previous owner's alarm system?
Often the equipment can stay, but you'll need your own account and new codes. Some panels can't be taken over, so ask a provider to confirm what you have.
Does a monitored alarm lower homeowners insurance?
Often. Triple-I says discounts of at least 5% are usually available for a burglar alarm, with up to 15% or 20% at some companies for sophisticated systems. Ask your insurer which systems qualify.
What if I don't know the alarm's master code?
Ask the seller first. If that fails, contact the panel's installer or an alarm company. They can tell you if your panel can be reset or needs replacing.
What you’ll need
Sources: Insurance Information Institute, support.suretyhome.com
General guidance for U.S. homes, not professional advice. For gas, electrical and structural work, call a licensed pro.