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EXISTING Security Alarm SERVICE

Do you have a problem with an existing alarm system?

In most cases we can fix this for you, but there will be a minimum service charge for the time of our technicians of $150. This is only payable if your problem is fixed and will not apply if you choose to purchase/upgrade to a new system.

What should you consider before booking in a service call?

  • What is the Brand / Model of your system? The most common brand on the market are Bosch, Hills, DSC, Ness, Paradox and Crow. Our team are familiar with these panels and spare parts are readily available. If you have one of these alarm panels there is a good chance we can fix your issue.
  • The age of your system? If your system is +10 years we would strongly recommend that you consider updating. Whilst we can work with older alarm panels, we might fix one issue only for another issue to appear a couple of months later. Unfortunately, we cannot provide a warranty on our work for products of this age and most products have a finite lifespan. Would you repair a computer that is +10 years in age?
  • Do you have the installer code? For some panels it can be very difficult to get access to the panel if you do not have the installer master code. Without this code we will do a full factory reset of the panel which will mean a complete reprogramming fee. This will be +$300 for domestic and can be a lot more for commercial. Do you really want to invest this amount into an aging alarm panel?

What are the most common issues we see with service calls on alarm panels?

  • Backup Batteries: The backup batteries on alarms need to be replaced every 3-5 years, or sooner if your power has failed for a long period of time. This is an easy fix.
  • Batteries in Detection Devices: The batteries in wireless reed switches and PIR sensors have a life of about 3-5 years and are also easily replaced by an experienced technician.
  • Sensors: PIR’s, Reed Switches, glass break detectors can fail after a long period of time, these are usually quite easy and inexpensive to replace without having to upgrade the panel.
  • Faulty external siren or strobe is very common, we recommend self-testing or an alarm service every 3 years to ensure both of these components are in working order. 

How often should you get your alarm serviced?

We recommend self-testing your alarm panel every 3 years to ensure your sensors, siren & strobe are working properly. We also recommend changing your backup battery every 3 – 5 years. Unless you know what you are doing, we would advise a scheduling professional service.

Should you repair or upgrade your system?

The cost of repairs on an old alarm system can be substantial so why not consider an update to a new system? In most cases our team can utilise existing wiring but update the hardware to keep cost down. Your new system will be NBN compatible and the latest generation panels give you access to features such as self-monitoring through mobile apps and Touchscreen panels. All of our new systems come with a 3-year warranty.

When is a quote a service call?

Jim’s Security are committed to providing free onsite no obligation quotes to customers. However, there are some circumstances where a visit by a Jim’s Franchisee is not considered a free quote but is a service call and there will be a cost incurred by the customer. If the conditions below are met then the quote may be considered a service call:

  • The enquiry relates to an issue with an existing Installation (not installed by Jim’s and under warranty)
  • The cost of the service call is explained to the customer on the phone or onsite by the franchisee before they commence work
  • The Issue is resolved by the franchisee

What is the cost of a service call?

Services call by Jim’s technicians start from $150 and cover first hour labour / fault finding (not including any parts required).

Why do we charge for a service call?

Charging a service call is a standard practice in the trade services industry, many companies will charge a fee even if they don’t fix the issue (which we do not do unless we are providing reports to other parties).  Our franchisees are all business owners and their time is valuable, if they take the time to travel to a job and resolve your issue, we believe it is fair that they are compensated for this.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Control Panel – Brains of the entire security system, should be user friendly and can be installed hidden or in an easily accessible location.
  • Key Pad – Use to arm and disarm your system, can be configured to arm only specific detection devices if you wish to remain at home (i.e. lower level PIR’s). Can be upgraded to a touch screen key pad for improved aesthetics and functionality.
  • PIR Sensors (Passive infrared sensor) – The most commonly used detection device, these use infra-red technology and are available in Pet-tolerant versions.
  • Internal Screamer Siren – To startle the intruder and let him know that he has been detected. Due to their high volume, they make it very difficult for the intruder to stay in the home.
  • External Siren and Blue Strobe – This will alert neighbours and passes-by that your alarm has been activated.
  • Reed Switches – Another form of detection device can be installed on doors or windows to provide detection when these events occur.
  • Wireless Key Fob – Allows to you activate and deactivate your alarm remotely.
  • Other Forms of Event Detection – Glass break detectors, smoke alarm, flood detection, external PIR.

Whilst a hard-wired system will always be our first choice, Jim’s Security also has a range of wireless security solutions which for homes with limited access to roof space. Wireless components work using RF technology to communicate signals to and from the system and customers can expect battery life of 3-5 years.

The added advantage of wireless technology means the system is portable and can be quickly uninstalled and moved to your new home.

We offer systems that give the option of either 24 Hour Back-to-Base Monitoring or self-monitoring. Back to base monitoring requires PSTN (phone line) or GPRS (mobile) connectivity, whilst self-monitoring is generally setup through hard wired IP connectivity.

Most older alarms systems use PSTN (telephone line) for communications back to the monitoring centre, in most cases this method will no longer function once NBN is installed. To reinstate monitoring you will need to add either an IP or GPRS module to enable communications.

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