Compare the highest-rated home security professionals in Madison, Wisconsin. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated, locally owned and operated security company known for personalized service and expertise. They offer custom-designed security solutions, professional installation, and 24/7 monitoring from their in-house, UL-listed monitoring center. Their strength lies in integrating high-quality equipment with excellent customer support.
The national leader in security, ADT provides brand recognition and extensive resources. They offer a wide range of equipment, strong smart home integration, and the reliability of multiple, redundant monitoring centers across the country. Their local Madison branch handles sales, installation, and service.
Vivint is a major national provider focused heavily on advanced smart home automation integrated with security. Their systems are known for sleek, modern equipment and a comprehensive app that controls security, cameras, door locks, and thermostats. They use professional installation and their own monitoring network.
** The home security market in Madison, Wisconsin, is robust and competitive, characterized by a healthy mix of long-standing local specialists and major national providers. The average quality is high, with companies needing to meet the demands of a tech-savvy population that values both reliability and smart home integration. **Competition Level:** High. Residents have a clear choice between the personalized, high-touch service of local companies like Allstar Security and the extensive resources, brand trust, and advanced technology platforms of national giants like ADT and Vivint. **Typical Pricing:** The market offers a range of options. Basic system installation can start from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 for more advanced setups. Monthly monitoring fees typically range from **$30 to $60+**, with local providers often being competitive and national providers offering tiered plans that include more smart home features. Many companies now offer financing options or equipment packages bundled with a monitoring contract.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Madison regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home security services in Madison, Wisconsin.
In Madison, a standard professionally installed system with monitoring typically ranges from $600 to $1,500 for equipment and installation, plus a monthly fee of $30 to $60. Local factors include the prevalence of older homes with unique wiring challenges, which can increase installation time and cost, and competitive pricing due to the presence of several reputable local and national providers. Wisconsin's sales tax (5.5% in Dane County) also applies to equipment purchases.
Madison's cold, snowy winters necessitate choosing equipment with a wide operating temperature range (e.g., -20°F to 120°F) and an appropriate weather-resistance rating (IP66 or higher for outdoor cameras). Homeowners should ensure outdoor cameras have built-in heaters to prevent snow and ice buildup on lenses and regularly clear snow from door/window sensors and camera views. Battery-powered devices may also drain faster in extreme cold.
Madison and Wisconsin generally do not require permits for standard, low-voltage home security installations. However, if your system includes monitored smoke/heat detectors, you must comply with Wisconsin's fire alarm rules (SPS 314) and notify the Madison Fire Department. Crucially, you must register your alarm system with the City of Madison Police Department to avoid fines for excessive false alarms, which are subject to local ordinance fines.
National chains often offer brand-name equipment and standardized packages, while local Madison companies may provide more personalized service, faster local technician response for maintenance, and better understanding of local architecture and crime patterns (e.g., seasonal trends near campus). Always verify that any provider is licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) as a Private Security Permit holder.
Beyond a core alarm system, utilize smart home integrations for timed lighting and smart locks. Enlist a trusted neighbor or use a local property watch service to remove flyers, vary trash/recycling bin placement, and clear mail. Given the prevalence of basement entries in Madison homes, ensure all egress windows and bulkhead doors are securely monitored with contacts or motion sensors. Notify your monitoring company and local police district of your travel dates.