Compare the highest-rated home security professionals in Berkeley, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
ADT is a nationally recognized leader in home security with over 145 years of industry experience. They offer comprehensive security solutions, including professional installation and 24/7 monitoring from multiple, redundant monitoring centers. Their strength lies in their brand reliability, extensive service network, and wide range of equipment.
Vivint is a major national provider known for its advanced smart home integration and proprietary technology. They specialize in creating a fully connected smart home ecosystem where security, cameras, doorbells, and locks work seamlessly together. Their systems are professionally installed and include 24/7 monitoring.
Guardian Protection is a highly-rated, employee-owned national company with a strong regional presence in the Midwest. They are known for high customer satisfaction, quality equipment from brands like 2GIG, and their own UL-listed, Five-Diamond certified monitoring center. They offer professional installation and a focus on personalized service.
** The home security market in Berkeley, Illinois, is characteristic of a mature, competitive suburban market within the greater Chicago metropolitan area. Residents have access to services from top-tier national providers as well as reputable regional companies. The average quality is high, with companies offering advanced technology like HD video surveillance, smart home automation, and mobile app control as standard features. **Competition Level:** High. The presence of giants like ADT and Vivint, alongside strong competitors like Guardian Protection and local authorized dealers, creates a competitive environment that benefits consumers through package deals, promotional pricing, and improved customer service. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with national averages. Customers can expect: * **Monitoring Fees:** Typically range from $40 to $65 per month for professional 24/7 monitoring. * **Equipment Costs:** Often bundled into the package with a long-term contract (36 months is common). Upfront equipment costs can range from $0 (with a contract) to over $1,000 for advanced, fully integrated systems without a contract. * **Installation:** Professional installation usually costs between $99 and $199, though it is frequently waived during promotional periods. Due to Berkeley's proximity to larger commercial hubs like Hillside, Elmhurst, and Chicago itself, residents receive excellent service coverage from companies based in these adjacent areas, ensuring a robust selection of reputable home security providers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Berkeley regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home security services in Berkeley, Illinois.
In Berkeley, a professionally installed security system typically ranges from $0 to $200 upfront for equipment with a monthly monitoring fee of $30 to $60. Local factors affecting cost include Berkeley's older housing stock, which may require more custom installation work in historic or unique building layouts, and Illinois state sales tax of 6.25% applied to equipment purchases. Many providers also offer bundled services like home automation, which can influence the final price.
Berkeley's temperature extremes require choosing equipment rated for a wide operational range (e.g., -20°F to 120°F). For outdoor cameras and sensors, look for weatherproof (IP65 or higher) and heated housing options to prevent snow/ice buildup in winter. During humid summers, ensure components are installed in well-ventilated areas to prevent condensation, and consider systems with cellular backup, as severe summer storms can disrupt power and internet lines.
Berkeley generally does not require a permit for standard security system installation on private, single-family homes. However, you must comply with the Village of Berkeley's building and electrical codes, especially for hardwired systems. Crucially, you must register your alarm system with the Berkeley Police Department, as failure to do so can result in fines for false alarms, which is a common local ordinance in Cook County suburbs to reduce unnecessary police dispatches.
A local provider often offers more personalized service, familiarity with Berkeley's specific neighborhood layouts and common architectural styles, and potentially faster, on-site technician response. Verify they are licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). National companies may provide more extensive technology integration and brand-name equipment. Always check reviews and confirm they have reliable local monitoring centers to ensure quick response during Illinois' severe weather events.
Proximity to major interchanges can increase risk for certain crimes like package theft and burglaries of opportunity. This makes robust perimeter security—such as door/window sensors, motion-activated lighting, and video doorbells—particularly important. Given the high traffic flow, choosing a security system with real-time mobile alerts and high-quality exterior cameras with good resolution for license plate or facial details can be a significant deterrent and investigative aid for local law enforcement.