Installing home security features can do more than protect your family and belongings—it can also lower your insurance premiums. Many insurance companies reward homeowners who take proactive steps to reduce risk by offering discounts for specific safety measures. Understanding which home security upgrades qualify for discounts helps you save money while improving protection.
Why Insurers Offer Home Security Discounts
Insurance companies price policies based on risk. The safer your home is from theft, fire, and damage, the less likely you are to file a claim. When you reduce risk, insurers reduce your premiums. Home security discounts reflect this relationship between safety and cost.
Common Home Security Discounts
1. Burglar and Intrusion Alarm Systems
Most insurers offer discounts if your home is protected by a monitored burglar alarm system. This includes systems that alert a monitoring center or law enforcement directly during a break-in attempt.
2. Smoke and Fire Alarm Discounts
Smoke detectors, fire alarms, and carbon monoxide sensors save lives—and money. Insurers often provide discounts when properly installed alarms are present on every level of your home.
3. Deadbolt Locks and Reinforced Doors
Enhanced door security like deadbolts, reinforced frames, and security strike plates reduce the risk of forced entry. These upgrades can qualify for additional savings.
4. Security Cameras and Surveillance
Visible security cameras serve as both a deterrent and a risk reducer. Many companies offer discounts for professionally installed or smart-home surveillance systems.
5. Smart Home Security Integrations
Smart devices such as monitored sensors, connected door locks, motion detectors, and video doorbells may qualify for modern “smart home” discounts.
6. Window and Glass Break Sensors
Break-in via windows is common. Sensors that detect glass breakage provide additional safety and often contribute to lower premiums.
7. Deadbolt and Keyed Lock Upgrades
Strong locks on doors and windows reduce break-in risk. Some insurers offer discounts for certified high-security locks.
8. Home Automation and Central Control Systems
Integrated systems that combine alarms, sensors, lighting control, and remote monitoring may qualify for larger multi-feature discounts.
How Much You Could Save
Discount amounts vary widely but often include:
5–20% reductions on your home insurance premium
Stackable discounts for multiple security features
Additional savings when combined with other safety upgrades
Exact savings depend on your insurer, location, and security system.
How to Qualify for Discounts
Contact your insurance agent or company before installing equipment
Choose approved systems and certified installers
Provide proof of installation or inspection
Update your policy with current security features
Documentation is crucial for getting your discount applied.
Security Features That Do NOT Typically Qualify
Standard deadbolts without verification
Unmonitored DIY alarms (in some cases)
Unregistered or uncertified devices
Temporary or rental-only systems
Always check specific insurer requirements before purchasing.
Tips to Maximize Savings
Bundle security discounts with other cost-cutting strategies:
Auto insurance bundling
Higher deductibles (if affordable)
Claims-free history discounts
Home safety improvements (sprinklers, fire extinguishers)
A comprehensive approach yields bigger savings.
Final Thoughts
Home security upgrades protect your family—and can protect your wallet too. By understanding which features qualify for insurance discounts and how to document them, you can simultaneously improve safety and reduce costs.
Being proactive pays off—literally.