Compare the highest-rated home security professionals in Lakewood, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A-1 Security Group is a locally owned and operated security integrator with a strong reputation in McHenry County and the surrounding areas. They are known for personalized service, high-quality equipment from brands like DSC and Alarm.com, and their own central monitoring station, ensuring a seamless, localized experience from sales to installation and 24/7 support.
As an ADT Authorized Provider, SafeStreets offers the brand recognition and national monitoring network of ADT combined with local installation and customer service teams. They are a strong option for homeowners seeking a well-known, professionally installed system with smart home capabilities and long-term monitoring contracts.
Guardian Protection is a nationally recognized, company-owned provider (not a franchise) that operates its own multiple, redundant monitoring centers. They offer a wide range of security and automation solutions and are known for their in-house monitoring reliability and competitive equipment packages for new customers.
The home security market in Lakewood, IL, is characteristic of an affluent suburban community. The competition is strong, with a mix of large national brands (like ADT via authorized dealers) and well-established local/regional integrators competing for business. The average quality is high, as companies serving this area must meet stringent Illinois licensing requirements and customer expectations for integrated smart home technology. Residents have access to a full spectrum of services, from basic alarm monitoring to comprehensive smart home and video surveillance systems. Typical pricing for a professionally installed system with 24/7 monitoring in Lakewood generally involves an initial equipment and installation cost ranging from $0 to $1,500 (often dependent on promotions or the complexity of the system), followed by a monthly monitoring fee ranging from $35 to $65+. Local companies like A-1 Security Group often provide more customizable, upfront pricing for equipment, while national providers frequently use promotional equipment packages in exchange for longer-term monitoring contracts. The market is mature, and customers are generally well-informed, leading to a focus on service reliability, technology integration, and customer support.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Lakewood regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home security services in Lakewood, Illinois.
In the Lakewood area, a standard professionally installed security system with monitoring typically starts between $600-$1,200 for equipment and installation, plus a monthly monitoring fee of $30-$60. Local factors include the need for weather-resistant equipment due to Illinois' humid summers and freezing winters, and potential costs for integrating with older home wiring common in some Lakewood neighborhoods. Always request an in-home quote from local providers for the most accurate pricing.
Lakewood's climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers, requires selecting equipment rated for extreme temperatures, especially for outdoor cameras and sensors. It's crucial to ensure cameras have built-in heaters for lens defogging in winter and that all external wiring is properly sealed against moisture. We recommend a professional seasonal check-up in late fall to ensure all components, like driveway sensors, are clear of ice and snow buildup.
While Illinois state law does not require a permit for standard residential alarm systems, the Village of Lakewood does require an annual alarm permit registration, especially for systems that trigger police dispatch. Failing to register can result in fines for false alarms. Furthermore, if your system includes monitored fire/smoke detection, it must comply with Illinois State Fire Marshal codes, which your licensed provider should handle during installation.
Prioritize providers with a physical service presence in McHenry County for faster response times for repairs or support. Verify they are licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Ask about their experience with the specific challenges of rural and semi-rural Lakewood properties, such as securing outbuildings or providing reliable cellular backup in areas where landline or internet service can be less stable.
For Lakewood properties, a layered approach is key. We recommend combining motion-activated lighting, wireless outdoor cameras with night vision and wide field-of-view, and perimeter breach sensors on gates or outbuildings. Given the local wildlife, look for cameras with advanced analytics to distinguish between animals and people. For extensive properties, a system with long-range wireless sensors or a cellular-based connection is often more practical than trying to run wires over large distances.