Compare the highest-rated home security professionals in Howard, Pennsylvania. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established, local family-owned business known for personalized service and expertise in both traditional and modern smart home security systems. They are highly regarded for their responsive customer support and reliable installation technicians.
A major regional provider with a strong national reputation and its own proprietary 24/7 monitoring centers. They offer a wide array of high-quality equipment and often have special promotions for new customers. Their technology is considered cutting-edge.
A highly-rated local contractor based in nearby Lock Haven, specializing in custom security solutions for residential and commercial properties. They receive consistent praise for their technical expertise, clean installations, and responsive maintenance and repair services.
** The home security market for Howard, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding Centre County area is characterized by a mix of strong local contractors and larger regional providers. Due to Howard's rural nature, residents typically rely on companies based in larger nearby hubs like State College (home to Penn State University) and Lock Haven. The competition is healthy, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. The average quality of service is high, with companies emphasizing reliability due to the potential for longer emergency response times in rural settings. Typical pricing for a basic monitored system starts around **$30-$50 per month**, with installation costs ranging from **$0 (with a contract)** to **$500+ for advanced, custom-installed systems** without a long-term contract. Smart home integration and video surveillance are now standard offerings from all top-tier providers in this market. Customers generally show high satisfaction with local providers for their personalized touch, while the regional companies are valued for their extensive resources and brand-name technology.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Howard regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home security services in Howard, Pennsylvania.
In the Howard area, a basic professionally installed and monitored system typically starts between $500-$1,200 for equipment and installation, with monthly monitoring fees ranging from $30 to $60. Regional pricing is competitive, but factors like home size, the inclusion of smart home features (like smart locks or thermostats), and local labor costs can influence the final price. It's advisable to get quotes from several local and national providers serving Centre County for the best comparison.
Pennsylvania law allows you to install security cameras on your property, but you must avoid recording areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as a neighbor's bedroom or bathroom window. In Howard, it's also a good practice to check local borough ordinances regarding the placement of exterior fixtures, especially in historic districts. Always ensure your cameras are focused primarily on your own property to avoid potential legal issues.
Howard experiences cold, snowy winters and humid summers, which demands durable, weather-rated equipment. Look for outdoor cameras and sensors with a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating (e.g., IP65 or higher) to withstand snow, ice, and summer thunderstorms. Furthermore, consider systems with battery backups to maintain security during the power outages that can accompany severe seasonal storms common in Central Pennsylvania.
Prioritize providers with a strong, verifiable local presence and responsive customer service for timely installation and maintenance. Check for proper Pennsylvania licensing (look for a PA Home Improvement Contractor license if installation is involved) and read reviews from other local customers. A provider familiar with Howard will understand local response times for emergency services and may offer tailored solutions for common area property types, from rural homes to borough residences.
For rural Howard properties, a system combining cellular monitoring (since landlines can be cut) and long-range wireless or cellular sensors is crucial to cover detached garages or barns. Motion-activated lighting and cameras with night vision and wide field-of-view are highly recommended to monitor large, dark perimeters. Discuss with your provider the range limits of equipment and the potential need for signal repeaters to ensure coverage across your entire property.