ESA is a non-profit 501(c) 6 trade association established 63 years ago. It is made up of member companies that adhere to a set of standards and ethics that promote professionalism in the alarm industry. This professional code of conduct benefits the millions of people who rely upon (or are considering) security systems for their personal safety, the safety of their homes and families, businesses and communities.

In cooperation with a federation of state associations, ESA provides government advocacy, supports legislation to enhance public safety and offers professional development and training to help members better serve you. Member companies install, integrate, and monitor alarm, fire detection, video and access control  systems for homes, businesses and government agencies.

Find an ESA member company in your area

If you are looking for a security company you know the choices can be overwhelming. With an estimated 14,000 alarm companies doing business in the US, Canada, how do you know if the one you are considering is reputable? And what about the system they recommend? Is it enough to help protect you or more than you need?

ESA member companies are required to adhere to the ESA Code of Ethics and Standards as part of their commitment to serve the public with high quality products and services that help save lives and protect property.  

A complete list of the standards is available for review or download here.  

Highlights include the requirement that all ESA member company sales representatives must:

• Carry photo identification and clearly state who they work for when making sales calls.
• Be properly licensed and registered in compliance with all applicable laws, ordinances and regulations.
• Immediately discontinue a sales presentation and leave the premises if a potential customer asks them to leave.
• Never make any false statements about competing organizations.

The ESA Code of Ethics also requires members to meet or exceed the following standards when contracting with customers:

• Members shall use written materials that clearly and conspicuously disclose all material terms and conditions of the offer before obtaining a customer’s consent.
• Prior to the sale of any product or service, sales representatives must disclose all termination fees and must honor all refunds in accordance with their company’s policies. 

Tips for selecting an electronic security services company

According to a recent study by the Rutgers School of Criminal Justice, , alarm systems are a valuable crime fighting tool credited with helping reduce home break-ins. Click here to read the Rutgers Study Executive Summary

Here are some other tips to remember if you are looking for a reputable security company:

·      See ESA’s list of member companies who abide by the National Code of Ethics. (Provide link to map as discussed)

·      Ask your insurance agent to recommend a company. Remember, insurance companies offer up to a 30% discount on your homeowner’s policy if you have a security system. Your agent can tell you which systems qualify you for the greatest savings.

·      Call several companies and ask if their employees are trained and/or certified by a nationally recognized entity like ESA’s National Training School.

·      Ask the companies for proof of applicable state and/or local licenses and if they do pre-employment screening and/or background checks.

·      Contact your local police department’s Crime Prevention Department, state licensing agencies, consumer protection agencies and the Better Business Bureau regarding any past interactions with or history of complaints against the company you are considering.

·      When you’ve narrowed the field to three or four alarm companies, ask for the name of the person who will call on you.

·      When he/she visits, ask to see positive identification.

·      Ask each alarm company representative to do a security risk assessment of your property and make specific recommendations and a quote in writing.  Use a checklist to compare different packages and price quotes.

·       Never feel pressured to sign anything. Be cautious of those who pressure you to sign a contract quickly or who offer deals or specials