Why is home security in Canada more important than ever?
I know we Canadians have a good thing going with our global reputation as the nice guys around town, but crime does happen here whether we like to admit it or not.
Stats Canada reports roughly more than and more than of breaking and entering occurs each year on average over the last 5 years.
It never hurts to be careful when protecting the ones you love and your valuable possessions against would-be threats.
Luckily, in this day and age, there are plenty of options. There are certain services that allow you to have a state-of-the-art security system without doing one thing to get up and running.
Just like that, you will have your children protected and your new television secure.
For the people who want to set up a high-tech home monitoring system all by themselves, there are options if you are inclined.
The options are endless along with self-monitored systems or subscription services with 24/7 professional surveillance.
Whether you live in a house, an apartment, or a condo there are plenty of options for a security system for Canadians to protect what is most important in this world and we can help you figure out which one is best for you.
Furthermore, all of the below home systems have 24/7 support and availability across the entire territory of Canada; including Vancouver, Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary, and most other major and minor cities. 🇨🇦
TLDR;
Frontpoint offers the best security system in Canada. It’s the best all-around choice and also has great customer support. Payment plans are flexible as are their packages.
TELUS SmartHome Security is the latest and greatest, and the best choice if you already have any TELUS services. Bundling your TELUS services together makes it the most cost-effective quality product to choose.
Self-monitoring is also a viable option and Honeywell’s Smart Home Security Kit should be chosen if that is what you want to use.
To learn more about cameras, read our guide to the best home security cameras.
How We Decide ✅
There are a lot of options out there for home security systems – so many that it can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.
Our team has reached out across the far-flung reaches doing research on all of the top home security brands so you don’t have to.
We’ve compared everything to make sure you can make an informed decision on how to protect yourself.
We figured out which services offer the best value – from features to pricing and everything in between such as ease of use, customer service, customer testimonials, effectiveness.
As well as anything else a home security system might need to be good at.
1. Frontpoint – Best Canadian Security System (DIY, Automated, Best Value)
People that should use Frontpoint are people who have some money to spend on a home security system but value peace of mind and security.
This service is for Canadians that don’t mind installing the system themselves or entering a long-term contract as well. Frontpoint Systems also include:
- No Installation Technicians
- No Wiring/Drilling
- Manual Programming Not Required
- Setup In Under 15 Minutes
- Smash Proof
- Comes With Backup
Frontpoint Review
Frontpoint security is our top-rated choice in Canada for the best home security system. The home monitoring system has a decade of innovation behind it while providing best in class customer service and a feature-rich experience to protect your home.
The best place to start is with Frontpoint’s manifesto: We’ve been revolutionizing the home security industry for over a decade. When intruders started outsmarting old-school security, we were one of the first to use cellular technology in every system.
When we were the first to combine a self-set up system with professional monitoring, a new market was born. And while the industry is ever-changing, our dedication to our customers remains unchanged.
Our customers deserve the best. They deserve a simpler way into a safer, smarter home. Welcome to Frontpoint smart home security.
Since 2007, Frontpoint has won multiple Angi’s (formerly Angie’s List) Super Service Awards, the last one coming in 2017. They also have an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and high reviews all across the internet.
Features, Plans, and Pricing
The pricing for Frontpoint can be customized in a lot of areas so it is a good idea to contact the company for a quote. However, there are specifics with how the pricing is done.
The first thing to keep in mind with the service is that you do have to commit to either a one-year or a three-year plan.
Three-year plans are much cheaper than one-year plans with a much larger commitment. That commitment may scare some people away but the 30-Day Guarantee allows you to try out the service for the first month.
Beyond the two different contract lengths available there are three monitoring plans and six customizable hardware packages.
The cheapest monitoring plan available is called the Protection plan and is $34.99 per month which includes fire, ice, water, life safety, and intrusion protection including 24/7 monitoring.
The next step up is the Interactive plan at $44.99 per month and adds extra functionality such as image sensors, lighting control, crash protection, email and text alerts, remote control from a mobile device, and geolocation services.
With the highest tiered plan, you can support cameras and thermostats for $49.99 per month. This allows you to use live video streaming, motion-activated video recording, door lock controls, and energy management controls.
On top of the monitoring packages, there are six hardware packages. These are split up into one time fees with steep discounts if you have a three-year contract.
- Safe Home Starter ($130.95) – 1 Frontpoint Hub and Frontpoint keypad, 2 door and window sensors, 1 motion sensor, 1 yard sign, 5 window decals, 1 door sticker
- Safe Home Everyday ($228.93) – 1 Frontpoint Hub and Frontpoint keypad, 3 door and window sensors, 2 motion sensors, 1 yard sign, 5 window decals, 1 door sticker
- Safe Home Plus ($248.93) – 1 Frontpoint Hub and Frontpoint keypad, 3 door and window sensors, 2 glass break sensors, 1 yard sign, 5 window decals, 1 door sticker
- Safe Home Select ($401.90) – 1 Frontpoint Hub and Frontpoint keypad, 4 door and window sensors, 2 motion sensors, 1 glass break sensor, 1 smoke and heat sensor, 1 yard sign, 5 window decals, 1 door sticker
- Safe Home Preferred ($534.88) – 1 Frontpoint Hub and Frontpoint keypad, 5 door and window sensors, 2 motion sensors, 1 glass break sensor, 1 smoke and heat sensor, 1 indoor camera, 1 yard sign, 5 window decals, 1 door sticker
- Safe Home Elite ($1032.84) – 1 Frontpoint Hub and Frontpoint keypad, 6 door and window sensors, 2 motion sensors, 2 glass break sensors, 1 smoke and heat sensor, 1 indoor camera, 1 outdoor camera, 1 doorbell camera, 1 yard sign, 5 window decals, 1 door sticker
There is also the option to add hardware to any of these plans which allows you to truly
Pros
Summary of Frontpoint Pros:
- 30-Day Risk-Free Trial
- Customer Service
- DIY Installation
- Other Fun Features
30-Day Risk-Free Trial
Out of every positive a company can have I always rank being able to try the service out at no cost to yourself as the most important aspect (unless the service is horrible).
Especially with home monitoring systems – trusting reviews can only take you so far. You need to be able to try out the system and you might as well try it out for free.
Customer Service
Angie’s List Super Service Awards are awarded based on reviews from customers.
The security companies that win these awards have the best customer service in their industries.
It comes as no surprise to us that Frontpoint has won multiple of these awards as their customer satisfaction levels are extremely high.
Their customer support team provides top-notch service. If there are any issues during the installation process it is extremely easy to get them on the phone for some help.
If they send you any faulty equipment they have a sterling reputation for troubleshooting the issue and sending you a replacement immediately.
Phone lines have English and Spanish-speaking customer support agents that are around 8 AM to 11 PM Eastern Standard Time on weekdays and 10 AM to 7 PM on weekends. Beyond that, the company also provides extremely easy-to-follow videos for installation.
DIY Installation
As far as installation goes one word sums it up for Frontpoint’s do-it-yourself installation process: effortless. On average the installation process takes 30 minutes to install the whole system.
A side-by-side application is provided for installation and if the system notices something is taking longer than it should the app will provide a phone number or an online resource to help.
Other Fun Features
With everything that Frontpoint offers the service also includes other sought-after features such as cellular alerts, indoor and outdoor cameras, environmental disaster protection, and home automation.
Extra features go a long way in making sure Canadians feel safe with high tech solutions that can be connected to wifi as a simple home alarm system won’t cut it.
Cons
Summary of Frontpiont Cons:
- Long-Term Contract
- Not Available in Quebec
- Only the Highest Pricing Tier Includes Specific Features
Long-Term Contract
The biggest negative when it comes to Frontpoint is that there are only two contract duration options. The shorter duration comes at a much heftier price than the longer contract.
This is somewhat negated by the 30-day money-back guarantee but at a certain point, some people might not want to sign up for such a long contract.
Priorities for Canadians can change at any point and some people move into apartment buildings with built-in security features.
Not Available in Quebec
This speaks for itself – sorry Québécois residents. We don’t want to leave you out but sadly Frontpoint does.
Only the Highest Pricing Tier Includes Specific Features
The awesome Frontpoint features such as cameras and motion sensors can only be used in the higher price points. If you’re looking for a security system on a budget this could be a dealbreaker.
2. TELUS SmartHome Security – Best Smart Home Security System
TELUS SmartHome Security is for people who want a cost effective solution that combines live video cameras, sensors, and smart devices all controlled within their fantastic app, combined with professional home monitoring in case of incidents (e.g., fire, break-ins).
Bundle your SmartHome security package with their mobile, internet, and other services to unlock even more discounts.
Highlights and Promos
TELUS brings their wealth of experience in telecommunications, product quality, and customer service to now modernizing your home with smart features and safety. In 2019, they acquired ADT’s Canadian operations (the largest home security company in Canada) and later acquired Vivint Canada in June 2022, which furthers their credibility in the home security space.
They offer a suite of home security devices with no upfront charge (~$1,500 in value) for customers signing 3-5 year contracts. These affordable all-in-one packages make it easier than ever to elevate your home security into the digital era with:
- 24/7 professional monitoring
- security cameras
- door, window, and motion sensors
- smart devices (e.g., smart lock for your doors, smart lights, smart plugs, smart thermostats)
- all controlled using their app and/or control panel provided
Easy Setup and Integration
After setting a time with a technician, they will come and assess what security and smart home devices that you would like installed and which ones you already have that can simply be integrated into the system. The process is quick, easy, and personalized, with fantastic technicians and customer support along the way.
Once everything is ready, they will show you how to use your control panel and smartphone to manage your security system. Having everything connected to SmartHome Security allows you to use the app to check the live camera, door/window/motion sensors, and control all of your smart devices (e.g., remote door lock, garage door opener, thermostat) in one location.
Monitoring and Alerts for peace of mind
With 24/7 professional monitoring, fire alarm, flooding, and break-ins will automatically trigger the authorities to come to your house and investigate if you do not respond. This can be a life saver especially if you’re not home:
Additionally, if you’re not sure you locked your house door, you can check the sensors and lock it remotely if you have the smart lock. Or maybe you forgot to turn off the lights in the kitchen? Check it and turn it off remotely with the smart plugs.
Packages and Pricing
Based on which devices, cameras, or sensors you may already have, you can customize your package for your needs. They offer 4 general packages for you to customize:
Pricing depends on your contract length, with options for 3 and 5 year contracts benefitting from the best deals. Current contract promos include free installation and free security kits valued at $1,500.
Additionally, all of their packages now include their TELUS Online Security which is powered by Norton and provides a secure VPN service.
Bundle with Mobile, Internet, or other services to save more
If you already have any TELUS services, it’s a bit of a no-brainer, since bundling your service with SmartHome Security helps you save even more.
TELUS offers fantastic mobile, landline, internet, TV, and other packages, making it very attractive to have all of your home services through the same provider. This way, you will only have 1 bill to pay and can benefit from the most discounts across all their services. The more services you bundle, the more you save.
Great Customer Service
Long-time telecom service providers, TELUS knows how to provide excellent customer service over phone, chat, or online resources. From setting up your system at the beginning, to tweaking certain settings in their SmartHome app, their customer service team is available to help you with all your needs.
They offer 24/7 technical support on the phone and via chat, while offering easy to follow resources like videos to answer the most common questions that may arise like “What should I do if my indoor / outdoor cameras are not recording enough?”
TELUS SmartHome Security Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to use all-in-one SmartHome Security app
- Great selection of smart devices
- Integration with existing smart devices
- Fantastic customer support
- Bundling other services gives you great value for your money
Cons
- 3 or 5 year contracts required
- No Money-back guarantee
3. Bell Smart Home – Best for Bundling with TV, Internet, and Other Services
Bell Smart Home is for people who are already using Bell Canada for TV, Internet, and Phone who want to bundle.
These are people who have already come to terms with using Bell Canada even though they charge high prices and have poor customer support.
Bell Smart Home
In 2018, Bell Canada purchased AlarmForce. This has allowed Bell Canada to provide a security option to their customers along with their other offerings.
Features, Plans, and Pricing
Bell Canada provides its customers with four options for their home security service.
Prices are affordable ranging from $24.99 to $54.99 per month with options to customize and add extra devices.
All plans come with 1 analog keypad, 1 motion detector, and 2 door and window contacts. With upgrades comes the ability to use the mobile app, more detectors and contacts, a touchscreen control panel, other detectors, smart locks, and cameras.
Pros
Summary of Bell pros:
- Save Money by Bundling
- Affordable
- Can Self-Monitor With High-Tech Equipment
Save Money by Bundling
This is by far the best thing about Bell Smart Homes. You can save money by bundling with your current TV, internet, or phone plan.
Affordable
Prices are much lower than other security services that are more dedicated to only security.
Can Self-Monitor With High-Tech Equipment
The option to self-monitor comes with the above equipment as well as the opportunity to use high-tech options like Nest Thermostats, Nest Cameras, Google Home, Samsung Connect Home, and Arlo Go.
Cons
Summary of Bell cons:
- Still Working Out the Kinks
- Features Don’t Live up to Competitors Unless Self-Monitored
- Poor Customer Service
Still Working Out the Kinks
With a new acquisition, there are going to be some kinks in the abilities of Bell Canada customer support being able to help you. Being a massive company, Bell Canada doesn’t always have the best support reputation.
Features Don’t Live up to Competitors Unless Self-Monitored
If you’re looking for a run of the mill security system on the cheap then this doesn’t matter as much but the type of high-tech equipment other security companies can offer aren’t available unless you are self-monitoring.
If you want smart home capabilities the options with Bell Smart Home can get you there but it doesn’t take you as far as Frontpoint and TELUS.
Poor Customer Service
The reputation of Bell Canada is basically that the company is a necessary evil in the country. The customer service provided is horrible for their other services and now with their security system bundled in you will probably receive much of the same.
4. Honeywell’s Smart Home Security Kit – Best Self Monitored Home Security Solution
Anyone who thinks that they would rather self-monitor and would like to purchase high-tech equipment that gives many options and features to anyone looking to DIY.
Honeywell
Honeywell’s Smart Home Security Starter Kit is an easy to install a DIY security system that uses an app to send alerts to your phone.
In a world where everything can be at your fingertips do you even need a third-party home monitoring service?
Features, Plans, and Pricing
The Honeywell Smart Home Security Starter Kit can be purchased for $449 and comes a base station complete with a camera, two sensors for doors and windows, and a remote control key fob.
This system is only self-monitored which means if someone does attempt to break in it is up to you to decide what to do.
Along with the starter kit, add-ons can be purchased such as more access sensors, an indoor motion sensor, an indoor motion viewer, an outdoor motion viewer, and extra key fobs.
This is the best solution for DIY Canadians who have no interest in paying a monthly fee.
Pros
Summary of Honeywell pros:
- All-in-One DIY Home Security
- High-Tech Equipment
- Facial Recognition
All-in-One DIY Home Security
The perfect solution for do-it-yourselfers and people who don’t want to pay a fee. This system provides everything a person could want when it comes to home security and self-monitoring.
High-Tech Equipment
The equipment provided in general is as good as what companies like Frontpoint and TELUS offer in terms of high-tech smart home goodness. The equipment comes complete with a bevy of awesome capabilities that will make arming your house easy.
Facial Recognition
The facial recognition software is honestly next-level Big Brother type stuff. Honestly – it’s very cool. If you would like to see if someone has come home when they were expected you can check to see if they’re there with the facial recognition service.
They can tell you if someone specific is home and will even alert you if someone else is there and send you a clip so you can see who it is.
Cons
Summary of Honeywell cons:
- Cost
- Only Self-Monitoring
Cost
When it comes to equipment the cost of the system, especially if you want to add anything on, can be high compared to the equipment you would get with a service. With that being said you will own all of your equipment and you won’t have to give it back.
Only Self-Monitoring
If you do want a third-party security service to watch over your house this is not the right choice for you.
What’s the Best Home Security System For Canadians?
The best home security system in Canada is Frontpoint Security. Frontpoint security is our number one choice. The home security system company has twelve years of experience.
They provide top-level customer service and any feature that could be wanted to protect the home.
How to Automate Home Security?
Automation is easy when using a security service as you just need everything set up and they can monitor everything for you.
It becomes a little more difficult when you decide to do it yourself but automation is still possible.
Settings such as timers, facial recognition, and family schedules make it possible to have your security system do all the heavy lifting and just send you alerts.
DIY Home Security Systems
The best DIY home security system for Canadians is the Honeywell Smart Home Security system. DIY security systems allow you to own the hardware and have complete control over your home monitoring system.
If you only feel comfortable having yourself monitor your home or if you don’t want to pay a monthly monitoring fee then this is the best choice for you.
Professional Home Security Systems
Professional home security systems mainly allow peace of mind without having to mess with anything yourself. There are companies that will provide all of the hardware necessary, install it for you, and monitor your home for you.
There are also security system companies that will allow you to monitor yourself or install your hardware yourself.
How Much Do Security Systems Cost Per Month?
It depends on the company you go with but monitoring packages can be anywhere from $20 to $200 per month as well as hardware set-up fees.
Can You Use a Security Camera Instead?
Security cameras are one aspect of a security system. If you’re only using a security camera you are losing out on home alarm systems, smart locks, smart doorbells, window and door sensors, as well as glass break sensors.
What About a Video Doorbell?
Video doorbells are a simple security measure that the 21st century makes possible.
In Canada, the cold weather makes the sound of the doorbell groan since you have to get up and open the door.
On top of that, it offers amazing security with recording motion at the door and the ability to check who is there before actually going to the door.
The best video doorbells on the market use existing doorbell wiring and are easy to install.
The models that you would want to use will be high resolution at 1080p with a wide-angle lens, night vision, and cloud storage for video recordings.
Our favorite is the Ring Video Doorbell.
What’s the Best Smart Lock?
A smart lock is a great add-on to a fully automated security system. Smart locks use regular door holes and are as easy to install as a regular doorknob.
The advantage of smart locks is that they can be locked and unlocked right from your phone and notifications can be sent to you whenever the door is open.
Other features include geofencing, voice activation, and integration with other smart devices. Our pick for the best smart lock is the Next X Yale Lock.
Can Home Security Systems be Hacked?
Just like any other modern technology, home security systems can be hacked. To hack a home security system specifically, they would have to be determined.
They would have to sit outside of your home and intercept wireless signals to allow them to disable sensors and turn off alarms.
If any of your devices are connected via wifi then they can also gain access to your network in general. Even without a security system, this can be done with your at-home network. They will use DDoS attacks or hack into your video monitoring.
To ensure that this doesn’t happen you can make extremely long passwords with unique symbols, change your password frequently, check security settings, or use an extra layer of protection with encryption software.
Home Security System Reviews – FAQ
How Does a Glass Break Detector Work?
When a glass break sensor hears the sound of shatter glass an alarm triggers. Glass breaking creates a distinct sound frequency that the sensors pick up.
How Does a Motion Sensor Work?
Motion detectors put out a radio or microwave signal across a room. When an object moves in the area the waves impact the sensor is triggered.
Will My Location Impact Which Security Company I Sign up For?
Yes, Canada is a large place geographically. For example, Frontpoint is not available for Canadians in Quebec.
What Is Life Protection?
Life protection is a term used for coverage against certain disasters such as fire, flood, and carbon monoxide monitoring. Each company has slightly different coverage so it is a good idea to check.
What Is Home Automation?
A solution made possible by modern technology that uses high-tech equipment consisting of hardware and software that enables control and management over devices in the home.
Why Are Wireless Home Systems Better?
Wired home systems require longer installation time, are vulnerable to power outages, and can be cut or tapped into manually.
Do I Have to Have a Monitoring Service?
No, there are plenty of options such as the Honeywell Smart Home Security Kit that allow you to self-monitor.
How Does Facial Recognition Software Work?
A facial recognition software uses biometrics to map facial features from a photograph or video and comes the information with a database of faces it has access to.
How Do Home Security Systems Protect Against Fire and Floods?
This is done through monitors to sense something such as smoke from a fire and alerts the authorities if anything is sensed.
How Else Can I Protect My Home?
Protecting your home starts with common sense. Ensure only trusted individuals know how to work your security system. Next steps can include encryption software as well as other options such as extra warning signs.
Are There Any Other Home Security Systems Not Mentioned in This Review?
Yes! Fluent Home Security is a Canadian company that services customers in both Canada and the United States. To learn more about Fluent, head over to our Fluent Home Security review.