Introduction
Choosing the right security company is as important as choosing the right alarm system. A poor installation or unreliable support can undermine even the best equipment. This comprehensive checklist helps you evaluate security companies and choose a partner who will protect your property and support you for years to come.
At Garrison Alarms, we believe you should choose your security partner based on expertise, transparency, reliability, and customer service—not just price. Use this guide to evaluate any company, including us.
The Security Company Evaluation Checklist
1. Credentials and Certifications
What to verify:
Code of Compliance (COC) Certification
- Required for all security installations in New Zealand
- Check at NZ Department of Justice Security Industry Register
- Verify technician and company names match registration
- Confirm COC hasn't been suspended or revoked
Electrical Certification
- If work involves electrical connections, verify electrician license
- Licensed electricians maintain appropriate insurance
Manufacturer Training
- Ask for proof of factory training from system brands they install
- Different brands require specific training
- Current training certifications confirm recent knowledge
Insurance Coverage
- Public liability insurance ($1M+ typical)
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Ask for certificate of currency (proof it's current)
Questions to ask:
- "Can you show me your COC registration?"
- "Are you electrically certified?"
- "What manufacturer training do you have?"
- "Can you provide proof of current insurance?"
Red flags:
- Company can't produce COC certificate
- COC shows disciplinary history
- No manufacturer training certificates
- No current insurance
2. Experience and Track Record
What to verify:
How long in business?
- 5+ years is baseline
- 10+ years indicates stability
- 20+ years shows sustained excellence
- New company (under 5 years) might be less proven
Local presence
- Local company based in Auckland
- New Zealand owned preferred (easier accountability)
- Emergency response availability
- Familiarity with local conditions
Industry reputation
- Check online reviews (Google, Facebook, industry sites)
- Ask for references from commercial clients
- Look for case studies of similar projects
- Review Better Business Bureau or similar if applicable
Brands they service
- Multi-brand capability (not locked to one system)
- Experience with brands you're considering
- Can service all major brands in NZ
Questions to ask:
- "How long have you been in business?"
- "Can you provide references?"
- "Which brands have you installed most?"
- "What's your experience with my specific brand?"
Red flags:
- Company less than 2 years old with no references
- Only service one brand
- Negative reviews or poor online reputation
- Won't provide references
3. Pricing Transparency
What to verify:
Itemized Quotes
- Equipment listed separately from labor
- No hidden fees or surprise charges
- Breakdown of costs clear and understandable
- Price includes what specifically?
Written Quotes
- Everything in writing (no verbal quotes)
- Quote valid for specific timeframe
- What happens if prices change mid-project?
- What's included in quoted price?
Comparable Pricing
- Get 3–4 quotes for comparison
- Prices should be roughly similar
- If quote is significantly lower, understand why
- If significantly higher, understand what extras included
No Pressure
- No pressure to sign on first visit
- Time to think it over
- Willing to discuss alternative approaches
- Respectful of your budget process than cards
Questions to ask:
- "Can I get an itemized quote in writing?"
- "What's included in this price?"
- "Are there any additional costs?"
- "How long is this quote valid?"
Red flags:
- Verbal quotes only (nothing in writing)
- Vague pricing ("we'll see once we start")
- Prices significantly lower than competitors (too cheap?)
- Prices significantly higher with no clear reason
- Pressure to sign immediately
- Hidden fees appearing later
4. Support and Service
What to verify:
24/7 Availability
- Company operates after hours
- Emergency response for alarm failures
- How long for emergency response?
- What constitutes an emergency?
Support Methods
- Phone support available
- Email support for non-urgent
- Online portal for account management
- Can you reach a real person vs. automated system?
Maintenance Offerings
- Annual maintenance packages available
- Proactive maintenance vs. reactive repair
- What's included in maintenance?
- Cost of maintenance plans
Warranty Coverage
- What's covered by warranty?
- How long (typically 12 months minimum)
- What voids warranty?
- How quickly are warranty claims handled?
Professional Monitoring
- If applicable, can they provide/coordinate monitoring?
- Monitoring center details
- Response times
- Integration with your system
Questions to ask:
- "How is emergency support handled?"
- "What's your typical emergency response time?"
- "What maintenance packages do you offer?"
- "What's covered by your warranty?"
- "Can you provide professional monitoring?"
Red flags:
- No after-hours support
- Only business hours availability
- No warranty offered
- Maintenance not available or overly expensive
- Vague about response timesprovide professional monitoring?"
5. Professionalism and Communication
What to verify:
Initial Consultation
- Takes time to understand your needs
- Asks questions about your property
- Recommends system based on needs (not highest price)
- Explains recommendation clearly
Installation Process
- Provides timeline before beginning
- Explains what will happen during installation
- Protects your property (floor protection, etc.)ortal for account management
- Professional conduct by technicians
- Clean up after installationClean up after installation
Communication
- Keeps you updated during project
- Explains system operation before leaving
- Provides documentation (manuals, codes, details)
- Answers questions patiently
- Accessible post-installation
Training
- Includes operation training with installation
- Written materials provided
- Training on troubleshooting
- How to contact support
Questions to ask:
- "How long will installation take?"
- "What should I do to prepare?"
- "What will you do to protect my property during installation?"
- "Will you provide training?"
- "Can I get written documentation?"
Red flags:
- Unclear about installation timeline
- Technicians unprofessional or rude
- Doesn't explain system operation
- No written documentation provided
- Won't answer questions
- Rushes through process
6. System Recommendations
What to verify:
Needs-Based Recommendation
- Recommends based on your specific situation
- Not pushing most expensive option
- Explains why specific system chosen
- Alternative options discussed
Right-Sizing the System
- Not over-engineering unnecessary complexity
- Expanding capability for future needs
- Cost-effective without sacrificing functionality
- Appropriate for your property
Realistic Expectations
- Honest about system limitations
- Doesn't promise false capabilities
- Explains false alarm prevention
- Sets realistic expectations
Future-Proofing
- System supports expansion
- Can add cameras later if desired
- Able to upgrade without replacement
- Technology choices sustainable
Questions to ask:
- "Why do you recommend this specific system?"
- "Would a simpler/less expensive system work?"
- "Can I expand the system later?"
- "How long will this system be adequate?"
Red flags:
- Pushes most expensive option without explanation
- Can't explain recommendation
- Dismisses your budget concerns
- Recommends system that can't be expanded
- Oversells capabilities
7. Company Stability and Continuity
What to verify:
Financial Stability
- Company has been profitable long-term
- Won't disappear after installation
- Able to honor warranties years later
- Parts availability for long-term
Staff Continuity
- Lower technician turnover
- Same people for support over time
- Knowledge stays with company
- Consistency in service
Local Presence
- Physical office in Auckland
- Not just mobile technicians
- Can meet in person if needed
- Local knowledge of area
Succession Planning
- Established company culture
- Trained backup staff
- Won't disappear if owner leaves
- Sustainable business practices
Questions to ask:
- "How long have your technicians been with you?"
- "Do you have a physical office I can visit?"
- "What happens to my warranty if company changes?"
- "What's your long-term plan for the business?"
Red flags:
- High staff turnover
- No physical office (all mobile)
- Recently started, uncertain future
- Owner about to retire with no succession plan
- Company in financial difficulty
8. Reviews and References
What to verify:
Online Reviews
- Read Google, Facebook, industry sites
- Look for patterns, not single bad reviews
- Most reviews should be positive (4+ stars typical)
- Recent reviews more relevant than old
- How does company respond to negative reviews?
References
- Ask for 3–5 recent references
- Call and ask specific questions
- Ask about installation quality and post-sales support
- Ask about any issues and how handled
- Ask if they'd hire company again
Industry Reputation
- Known in security industry
- Attended industry training
- Member of professional associations
- Featured in industry publications
Customer Satisfaction
- How many customers from referrals vs. advertising?
- What percentage of customers use them for subsequent work?
- Do they maintain customer relationships long-term?
Questions to ask:
- "Can I speak with your recent customers?"
- "What do your customers say about you?"
- "Have you received any industry awards or recognition?"
Red flags:
- No online reviews or all new reviews (suspicious)
- Mostly negative reviews
- Won't provide references
- References speak poorly
- Low repeat business rate
9. Value for Money Assessment
What to verify:
Price vs. Quality
- Not necessarily cheapest = best value
- Balance price and quality
- Understand what's included
- Compare similar systems and services
Long-Term Costs
- Not just installation cost
- Consider maintenance costs
- Support costs
- Warranty coverage
- Parts availability affects long-term cost
Hidden Costs
- Fully itemized quote
- No surprises later
- Change orders for modifications
- Maintenance plan costs known upfront
Insurance Benefits
- Does system qualify for discounts?
- How much savings annually?
- Does cost justify system investment?
ROI Calculation
- System cost vs. insurance savings
- System cost vs. theft prevention value
- Peace of mind value
- Longevity of system
Questions to ask:
- "Will this system qualify for insurance discounts?"
- "What are typical ongoing costs?"
- "What's your cancellation policy?"
Red flags:
- Only discussing initial cost, not total cost of ownership
- Hidden costs appearing later
- Unusually cheap with poor service
- Unusually expensive with no clear justification
10. Contracts and Terms
What to verify:
What's in the Contract
- Scope of work clearly defined
- Timeline and milestones
- Payment terms
- Warranty terms
- What's not included
- Cancellation policy
Flexibility
- Able to modify scope
- Change order process
- What happens if circumstances change?
- Fair termination clauses
Warranty Details
- Length of warranty (minimum 12 months)
- What's covered
- What voids warranty
- Claim process
- Replacement vs. repair provisions
Service Terms
- Service call fees
- Emergency response fees
- What's free vs. paid support
- Minimum maintenance requirements
Professional Relationship
- Clear communication about expectations
- Fair terms for both parties
- Not predatory or one-sided
- Willing to negotiate reasonable terms
Questions to ask:
- "Can I see your standard contract?"
- "What happens if I want changes?"
- "What's your warranty coverage exactly?"
- "Can any of these terms be negotiated?"
Red flags:
- Won't show contract before signing
- Unfair or one-sided terms
- Short warranty period (less than 12 months)
- Excessive cancellation fees
- Automatic renewal of maintenance plans
- Difficult to understand terms
Red Flag Summary: When to Avoid a Company
Do not choose a company if:
- No COC certification – Illegal to operate without it
- Only business hours support – Can’t help in emergencies
- No warranty offered – Shows lack of confidence
- Unclear pricing – Hidden costs likely
- Won’t provide references – Suggests poor reputation
- Pressure to sign immediately – Disrespectful of your decision
- Negative online reviews – Customer satisfaction concerns
- One-brand only – Limited flexibility and options
- Vague about installation timeline – Unprofessional planning
- Can’t explain recommendations – Lack of expertise
Green Flags: Signs of a Good Company
Choose a company that:
- COC certified – Legal, regulated, professional
- 24/7 support available – Takes security seriously
- Multi-brand expertise – Professional and flexible
- Transparent pricing – Itemized, written quotes
- References available – Willing to back up reputation
- Listens to your needs – Customizes solution
- Professional staff – Trained, courteous, knowledgeable
- Comprehensive warranty – Stands behind work
- Excellent reviews – Customers satisfied
- Local presence – Accountable and accessible
Garrison Alarms: The Choice That Checks Every Box
We believe you should evaluate us against every criterion in this guide.
Here’s why we’re confident you’ll choose Garrison Alarms:
Credentials:
- Full COC certification
- Factory training on all major brands
- Public liability and professional indemnity insurance
- 35+ years continuous operation
Experience:
- Over 35 years serving Auckland
- Multi-brand expertise (Paradox, Bosch, DSC, Micron, Hikvision, Risco, Panasonic)
- Thousands of installations
- Strong customer references available
Support:
- 24/7 emergency response
- Same-day service typically
- Professional monitoring available
- Comprehensive warranties
Transparency:
- Free written quotes
- Itemized pricing
- No hidden charges
- Clear explanation of all work
Professionalism:
- Experienced technicians
- Professional installation process
- Complete training included
- Documentation provided
Local:
- Auckland-based business
- NZ-owned company
- Physical office (101 Diana Drive, Glenfield)
- Deep local knowledge
Choosing Garrison Alarms
Contact us for your free security consultation:
- Phone: 0800-427747 (24/7)
- Address: 101 Diana Drive, Glenfield, North Shore Auckland
- Online: Request free consultation and quote
What to expect:
- Free needs assessment
- No obligation to proceed
- Clear explanation of options
- Honest recommendations
- Transparent pricing
- Timeline discussion
- Willingness to answer questions
Service coverage: All of Auckland including North Shore, West, Central, South, and East Auckland.
We’re ready to earn your business. Let us show you the Garrison Alarms difference.
Internal Linking Notes
- See Best Home Alarm Systems 2026
- Learn Installation Costs 2026
- Check Alarm Repairs Guide
- Review Insurance Discounts for Alarms
- Explore Commercial Security Systems
Choosing a security company is choosing a partner. Choose wisely. Choose Garrison Alarms.
About Garrison Alarms
Since 1989, Garrison Alarms has installed professional security systems including access control for Auckland homes and businesses. We design systems matching your specific needs and integrate with existing security infrastructure. Our COC-certified installers ensure professional implementation with lasting support.
Last updated: February 2026