ADT is one of the most familiar home security companies out there and the name recognition can inspire confidence in customers and help to deter potential burglars. The company loses a few points because it uses local retailers with varying levels of customer service. ADT monitoring is also more expensive than other monitoring services, so it’s not the best option for people on a tight budget.
ADT is one of the most familiar home security companies out there and the name recognition can inspire confidence in customers and help to deter potential burglars. The company loses a few points because it uses local retailers with varying levels of customer service. ADT monitoring is also more expensive than other monitoring services, so it’s not the best option for people on a tight budget.
You’ve probably heard of ADT. In fact, odds are good that you don’t have to walk far before spotting an ADT sign in a neighbor’s yard.
ADT is one of the most popular home security companies in the world—but does that make it the right call for you?
Keep reading to learn more about ADT monitoring services and decide whether it’s the best home security option for your needs.
Pros
- Long history in security industry
- 24/7 customer support
- Multiple monitoring stations
- Environmental monitoring
- Mobile access and control available
- 6-month money-back guarantee
- Next-day installation often available
- More lenient cancellation policy than competitors
Cons
- Local dealer model that results in varied customer service experiences
- Varying package features and equipment options depending on retailer
- No DIY installation options
- More expensive monitoring than other options
What stands out about ADT monitoring?
ADT is so big and so well-known that it is almost synonymous with home security. There are some serious benefits to getting monitoring service from such an established company.
- Large companies provide customers with lots of resources. If you get ADT monitoring service, you’ll have access to multiple monitoring centers and 24/7 customer support.
- Name recognition could deter potential burglars who see ADT monitoring signs.
- The company has decades of experience in the home security industry.
Another perk of choosing ADT monitoring is that you get protection from more than burglary. Many packages come with environmental sensors for flooding, fire, and carbon monoxide. This gives your family and your property extra protection.
One unique thing about ADT’s monitoring service is that it can be paired with medical monitoring. You can add a medical pendant to most plans. A pendant provides a quick way to call for help, which makes it a useful addition if you have family members who are at risk for falling or other medical emergencies.
Comparing ADT Monitoring services to the competition
ADT monitoring is likely the most popular home security option, but it isn’t your only one. Let’s look at how ADT monitoring services stack up against competitors.
- Average contracts: Customers sometimes complain that the 36-month contracts for ADT monitoring are too long. We should point out that a 36-month contract is fairly standard in the home security industry. However, customers who care about shorter contracts with more flexibility could look into other companies. For example, Vivint customers who pay for all their security equipment up front don’t need monthly contracts, and Link Interactive offers shorter contract options (starting at 12 months).
- More lenient cancellation policies: Most home security companies have strict cancellation policies, and if you cancel before your contract is up, you’ll usually be required to pay 100% of the remaining charges. If you cancel ADT monitoring service, you’ll have to pay only 75% of the remaining charges, which is better than most of the other companies in the industry.
- Higher prices: ADT monitoring service is more expensive than many of the other options. For a closer comparison of your options, check out our post that compares home security costs across the industry.
- Installation fees: ADT monitoring service doesn’t come with any DIY installation options, and you’ll have to pay an installation fee. This is true of some other home security companies as well, but you can also find home security systems that offer free installation and companies that let you install equipment yourself to save money.
Authorized local retailers—advantages and disadvantages
If you choose ADT monitoring service, you’ll be working with a local authorized retailer. This comes with benefits and downsides.
Advantages
- Local dealers can often provide next-day installation.
- You’ll be working with people who are familiar with your area and invested in your community.
Disadvantages
- Customer service can vary between dealers, which means some customers have amazing experiences while others run into frustrating issues.
- Package features may vary from one retailer to the next. For example, one retailer may offer home automation features while another may not.
How much does ADT monitoring cost?
As mentioned earlier, ADT monitoring costs are on the upper end compared to the rest of the industry.
The table below goes into more detail about package prices and features.
Package prices and features
| Basic | Basic Wireless | ADT Pulse | ADT Pulse + Video |
| View Plan | View Plan | View Plan | View Plan |
| $36.99/mo. | $48.99/mo. | $52.99/mo. | $58.99/mo. |
| $99.00 | $99.00 | $99.00 | $99.00 |
| None | None | None | None |
| 36 months | 36 months | 36 months | 36 months |
Equipment compatibility
The table below shows a breakdown of which equipment is compatible with each package.
| Basic | Basic Wireless | ADT Pulse | ADT Pulse + Video |
Customer reviews
Since ADT uses local retailers, customer reviews can vary dramatically. However, we did notice a few themes when reading through customer’s stories.
Positive reviews talked about high-quality equipment and quick response times. Negative reviews focused more on frustrations with customer service and contract terms.
Positive reviews
“I accidentally touched button on my emergency base unit. Response time was excellent. I know if it was a genuine emergency for me your staff would respond immediately with efficiency and professionalism. I feel very secure with this system. I will definitely recommend this unit to my friends and associates. We do have an ADT Security System and we are happy and satisfied with this as well.” – Ellen, Oct 7, 2017, Consumer Affairs
“They are always there when you need them which is what I like the most. Highly recommend ADT to all my family and friends. Even when you call with stupid questions they are there for you. The system is that sensitive that it realized something was wrong regarding the heating and a/c and sensed the burnt out panel long before we would have. Thanks.” – David, October 6, 2017, Consumer Affairs
Negative reviews
“I have been a customer of ADT for approx. 3 years. I recently moved and was told that I would have to have a new account and with the new account, I have less coverage. Very misleading. I would have liked to have some of my windows covered.” – Brenda, September 20, 2017, Consumer Affairs
“Was having a lot of trouble signing in on my Pulse account. Had to use it every time. Called and talked to 3 people about this problem. All they could tell me was to reboot my phone. I did so. On the 4th call I talked to a man and he told me that ‘When you did the last upgrade the this was a existing problem.’ Said that the company has known about this and was trying to fix it. Just forget that the emails I was getting telling me that my phone was LOCKED UP to just forget it and when the next upgrade comes it should be fixed. Why did it take 3 people who didn’t know about this problem and 1 that did.” – Kenneth, August 10, 2017, Consumer Affairs
