Compare the highest-rated home security professionals in Portsmouth, Virginia. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
AFA is a locally owned and operated security leader with a strong reputation in the Hampton Roads area. They specialize in custom-designed security solutions, integrating high-quality equipment with their own in-house, 5-Diamond certified central monitoring station, ensuring rapid response and high reliability.
Sonitrol is a well-established national company with a strong local franchise. They are renowned for their verified audio intrusion detection technology, which allows their monitoring center to listen to a break-in in progress and verify it as a real crime before dispatching police, reducing false alarms.
Safehouse is a dynamic local provider focusing on modern, integrated security and automation solutions. They are known for their excellent customer service and expertise in blending security systems with smart home technology, offering comprehensive control via mobile apps.
** The home security market in Portsmouth, Virginia, is competitive and served by a mix of long-standing local companies and national providers. The quality is generally high, with several providers, like AFA and Sonitrol, operating their own local monitoring centers, a significant advantage for response times and reliability. The market is characterized by a strong shift towards integrated smart home technology, with customers expecting remote access, video doorbells, and smart locks as standard offerings. Competition is robust, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing involves an initial investment for equipment and installation, which can range from **$500 to $2,500+** depending on the system's complexity. This is followed by a monthly monitoring fee, which generally falls between **$35 and $65** per month. Providers with in-house monitoring, like AFA, often command a premium due to the enhanced service level. Many companies offer financing options for equipment to lower the upfront cost.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Portsmouth regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home security services in Portsmouth, Virginia.
In Portsmouth, a basic professionally installed system typically starts between $200-$500 for equipment and installation, with monthly monitoring fees ranging from $30 to $60. Local factors that can influence cost include the age and construction of your home (common in Portsmouth's historic districts), the need for cellular backup due to occasional coastal storm-related landline outages, and potential discounts for bundling with services like Tidewater-area internet providers.
Portsmouth's humid, coastal climate and annual hurricane season (June-November) make system durability and backup power critical. You should prioritize systems with corrosion-resistant components and cellular/radio backup monitoring to ensure functionality during power outages or landline failures. It's also wise to choose a provider with a strong local service network for quicker response after major storms that can affect the Hampton Roads region.
Portsmouth does not require a permit for a standard home security system installation. However, if your system includes monitored fire/smoke alarms, Virginia state law requires you to register the system with the Portsmouth Fire, Rescue & Emergency Services division to prevent unnecessary dispatches. Additionally, if you live in a historic district like Olde Towne, you may need to consult guidelines for external camera or wiring placement.
Look for providers with a physical local presence for faster installation and service response. Verify they are licensed by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (VDCJS), which regulates security firms statewide. It's also beneficial to choose a company experienced with the common home styles in Portsmouth, such as older homes with plaster walls or newer waterfront properties, to ensure proper installation.
Generally, no. Modern security systems operate on standard frequencies and are not typically affected by naval base activities. However, if you live very close to Norfolk Naval Shipyard or Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, it's prudent to discuss potential signal interference with your installer and opt for a system with dual-path communication (cellular and internet) for maximum reliability, as some military communications use broad radio spectrums.