FAQ
Q. How does Canadian Monitoring Services monitor for only $14.99/month?
A. We keep our prices low by separating the cost of the equipment from the cost of the monitoring. Some of our competitors offer a “free” security system package, meanwhile they are recapturing the cost with their high monthly monitoring fees and long term contracts, and paying huge commissions to their sales staff. In some cases, you won’t even own the equipment.
Q. Are your services the same as your competitors?
A. Yes! Half the price DOESN’t mean half the service. CMS customers are connected to 5 UL & ULC rated monitoring centers across Canada 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Q. Does CMS offer services in my area?
A. Canadian Monitoring Services provides sales and service from Burnaby, BC to Hope, BC and everything in between.
Q. Can Canadian Monitoring Services use my existing alarm system?
A. Yes. We can provide our monitoring services to 95% of existing security systems. We monitor systems from all of the major equipment manufacturers in our industry, including DSC, Honeywell ADEMCO, ITI & GE. In addition, our experienced staff are typically able to find solutions in most cases where a system from a lesser known manufacturer was previously installed.
Q. Does CMS install new security systems?
A. Yes we do. Our trained staff are able to customize a security system to meet your residential or commercial needs. Contact us for more information.
Q. Can you use my VOIP phone line?
A. All VOIP providers are different. There is NO 100% guarantee that any alarm system will communicate through your selected VOIP provider. We also offer monitoring services using the GSM cellular network or your current internet service.
Q. Can I have monitoring without a phone line?
A. Yes…you can add on a Cell Backup (GSM) unit to most security alarm systems, or through your current internet connection.
Q. How long will it take to complete the switchover of my existing alarm system?
A. It takes an average of an hour to an hour and half to complete the reprogramming, and to complete a full system diagnostic and testing. We will provide a new battery back-up free charge.
Q. How soon after you perform the installation or takeover of my existing alarm, will my system be monitored?
A. As part of our installation and/or monitoring takeover process, our technicians perform a full test, and confirm that all of the signals from your system are properly reaching our station. Our staff will trouble-shoot any problems that may exist, and ensure that the system is in proper working order before leaving your home or business.
Q. Does Canadian Monitoring Services offer a product warranty?
A. YES. All labor and materials for newly installed systems is guaranteed to be free from defect for a period of one year.
Q. What happens if the power in my area goes out?
A. All alarm systems are equipped with a battery back-up which immediately kicks in when a power outage occurs. Typically, a battery has enough power to run for 12 – 24 hours, depending on the equipment manufacturer. When the power is restored, the battery immediately begins to recharge itself.
Q. How often should I test my alarm system?
A. It is recommended you test your alarm system once per month. You should fully test your alarm system including each window sensor, door contact and smoke detector to ensure that each device is functioning properly.
Q. What if I have an existing alarm monitoring provider?
A. Switching is Easy …if you have an existing monitoring provider you are not stuck. You can still switch to CMS and start taking advantage of the savings benefits. Contact us toll-free at 1 (866) 494-4321 and one of our courteous customer service representatives will be happy to assist you in making the switch to Canadian Monitoring Services.
Q. How do I pay for my alarm monitoring service?
A. You can choose to either have pre-authorized payments from your bank or credit card, either monthly, quarterly, bi-annually, or annually.
Q. Can Canadian Monitoring Services monitor any brand of alarm system?
A. CMS can monitor almost 95% of all alarm systems. Alternatively, we can change the existing panel/keypad of your existing system while leaving your contacts, motion sensors and wiring in place.