What this means for your security plan
- Audience scope unclear — ask whether they primarily install for homes or businesses.
- Monitoring not listed — ask whether they include monitoring or only do install-and-walk-away work.
- Camera install not listed — ask if they'll add cameras to the alarm package.
- Smart-home integration not listed — if Alexa/Google compatibility matters, ask before signing.
Where to find them
Office
System types this installer covers
Plain-English notes on each capability this listing surfaces, plus a 7-row source-attribution matrix so you can see where each signal came from.
Source attribution — all 7 signals
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01.
CCTV
○ Not sure — ask
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02.
Alarm monitoring
○ Not sure — ask
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03.
Smart home integration
○ Not sure — ask
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04.
Access control
○ Not sure — ask
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05.
Residential security
○ Not sure — ask
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06.
Commercial security
○ Not sure — ask
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07.
Peace of mind
○ Not sure — ask
PRE-SIGN CHECKLIST
Before you sign a contract
Four things to nail down before equipment goes on your wall — what to ask for, where DIY makes sense, the rule that applies in your state, and the questions every install touches.
1 / Ask for these
- State security-installer license number (so you can verify on the state board website)
- Proof of liability insurance (a million-dollar minimum is normal)
- Brand and model of the panel + cameras they'll install (not just "ours")
- Who actually does the monitoring (in-house vs Rapid Response / Brinks / etc.)
- Whether equipment is sold to you or leased through the monitoring contract
- Contract length, monthly fee, and the early-termination penalty if you cancel
2 / Where DIY can make sense
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Pure DIY
Ring, Nest Aware, Wyze, SimpliSafe — buy the kit, install it yourself, optionally pay for self-monitoring. Best for renters, small homes, or as a starter setup.
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DIY install + pro monitor
SimpliSafe Interactive, Cove, abode — you do the install but pay a small monthly fee for a central station. Bridge between DIY and full-service.
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Pro install + pro monitor
Listings on this directory mostly fall here. ADT, Vivint, local installers like this one. Higher equipment + monthly cost, but they own the install warranty and the monitoring relationship.
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Full integrator
For commercial sites: card-access doors, fire panels, IT-room monitoring, often integrated with HR provisioning. Specialized firms only — usually different from the residential-focused installers.
3 / The rule in PA
PA requires anyone installing burglar alarms or low-voltage security wiring to hold a state license — usually issued by the state Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Security & Investigative Services, or equivalent. Verify the license number on the state board website before signing. Cities also typically require an alarm-system permit and may fine repeated false alarms (anywhere from $50 to $500 per incident after the first two or three).
4 / Common questions
What does a typical home security install cost?
Equipment + install for a basic 4-sensor alarm panel runs $400-800; cameras add $150-300 each; smart locks $200-400. Monitoring is usually $30-50/month with a 24- or 36-month contract. DIY kits like SimpliSafe start around $250 with optional $15-30/month monitoring.
Do I own the equipment or lease it?
Depends on the installer. Pro installers often lease equipment as part of the monitoring contract — if you cancel, the gear stops working with their app. Buying outright costs more upfront but lets you switch monitoring providers later. Always ask before signing.
How fast does a monitored alarm get a response?
A UL-listed central station calls within 30-60 seconds of a trip to verify, then dispatches police or fire if needed. Verification helps cut false-alarm fines. Average dispatch time is 90-120 seconds. Some systems use audio/video verification before any call to police.
What's the difference between a security installer and a fire-alarm installer?
Fire alarms are regulated under separate state and city codes — usually require a different license and inspection trail. Some larger installers do both; many residential security shops don't. If you need an integrated fire + security panel for a small business, ask specifically.
Will my system work during a power outage or internet drop?
A properly installed alarm panel has a battery backup (good for 24+ hours) and a cell radio for monitoring (so it doesn't depend on home internet). Cameras and smart locks usually need power and internet. Confirm both — battery + cellular — before signing.
Do I need a permit to install a home security system?
Many cities require an alarm-system permit before the monitoring company can dispatch on your behalf. Costs are usually $25-100/year, and false-alarm fines kick in after 2-3 trips. The installer typically files the permit on your behalf as part of activation.
Listing description
Beyond the basics you'd expect from any Philadelphia, PA security listing, there isn't much online about Fidelity Burglar & Fire Alarm. Use this page as a starting point. A short call will tell you whether they handle homes or businesses, what alarm-monitoring partner they use, and whether the equipment is sold or leased.