Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I buy an alarm system without monitoring?

A: Yes from Blockwatch-No for most all other companies because they want the long term monitoring contract.

Q: Do I need Blockwatch Monitoring?

A: No, however, our monitoring is $20 per month and terms are month to month with a service that notifies you and your neighbors which is far more effective for emergency response if needed.

Q: Are your alarm systems warrantied?

A: Yes-DSC is the manufacturer and they come with a warranty

Q: Does Blockwatch install?

A: Yes-In Western Washington US, however if you need your system installed we are always vetting installation partners in cities all around the country so call us and one of our knowledgeable US based team members will handle your questions with care.

Q: Can I install it myself DIY?

A: Yes-absolutely, that is the beauty of the two systems we chose to be powered by Blockwatch from DSC-It doesn’t get any easier!

Q: I have a system, can you re-program my system so I can be powered by Blockwatch?

A: Great question and YES, we can reprogram almost every system on the market today.

Q: I have a system but I think I have a monitoring contract already, can I cancel and switch?

A: YES-If you are currently monitored and you want to reduce your costs it is important to look carefully at your present monitoring agreement. The monitoring agreements at their high rates are very important to these companies and they are not about to do anything voluntarily to assist you in leaving them as a monitored customer. Blockwatch doesn’t encourage or support any effort to breach or break a contract between you and your alarm company. We do encourage you to understand the terms and your rights under any contract. Look for the following information in your monitoring agreement:

• Term of agreement: What is the expiration date of the agreement?
• Notification for termination: How much notice is required before the end of the agreement in order for the agreement to not automatically renew? Does the contract provide for canceling the service?
• Penalty for termination: If you cancel your service before the end of the contract period is there a penalty? What is it?
• Ownership of Equipment: Who owns the equipment? Will the Alarm Company remove the equipment? If the monitoring agreement doesn’t stipulate who owns the equipment, you own it.
• If you don’t have an alarm agreement, write to the Alarm Company and give them a thirty day notice of your wish to cancel their service. State in the letter that you will consider the cancellation accepted if you receive no written response by the end of the thirty days. Send your letter return receipt requested so that you have proof they received your correspondence. (Document all correspondence and actions you take). Ask them to put any explanations or clarifications in writing. If they indicate that you have a contract that requires more of you, have them send you a copy of that contract with an explanation of the requirements. Always write your letters in such a manner that if they fail to respond they are agreeing with your position. Also make sure that you always give them a deadline date for a response.
• If you feel you need assistance in communicating with your alarm company or alarm monitoring provider, feel free to contact us for assistance.
• There is nothing to be gained by alienating your present alarm company, but as the customer you certainly have the right to question them and receive information that is pertinent to your alarm service and monitoring agreement.

Q: Can I get discounts if our neighborhood buys multiple systems powered by Blockwatch community monitoring?

A: YES of course! Contact us for discounts on 3 or more systems purchased and we offer monthly Blockwatch monitoring discounts in $1 increments if you refer your neighbors to get involved with you for smarter community protection with Blockwatch.

Q: How long have the founders been in the industry

A: We have over 100 years of combined experience in the alarm and monitoring industries as principals of both for 35 years. We recognized that the industry is changing and the technology exists to reduce the central station cost and automate their processes while empowering the home or business owner with smarter security and verified response so jurisdictions find value in responding while not wasting anyone’s time or money.

Q: If I am a Blockwatch customer do I still get my home insurance discounts?

A: YES, for $5 per month additional and $20 for every fire signal (very rare) that we retransmit from your Blockwatch monitored smoke detector signals. This is what your insurance company cares about and qualifies against.

Q: If I am not monitored by a traditional central station and I am a Blockwatch customer will the police or fire department still respond to my system?

A: YES, Since your system calls you and your neighbors, you decide to call 911 if an event such as a burglary is in progress or a suspicion of a burglary is apparent. The key to having the police respond is having an alarm event at your home verified by you or your neighbor then the response is prompt and no fees are issued.

Q: What if none of my neighbors are home during the day?

A: Since the fire alarms are getting sent directly to the central station (if you opt for that service) then a fire is protected 24 hours a day. 95% of burglar alarms on home systems are not necessary for police response for whatever reason and the event that no neighbors are home after trying to reach all of them we can pass the signal to a central station or you can go home to check your property or choose to call 911 yourself, you have a very flexible decision tree on the Blockwatch dashboard.

Q: What is the optimum size of a Blockwatch community?

A: Good question-each neighborhood is different but we feel that 6 homes is a perfect size community but they can be as large or small as you like. Many of our Blockwatch communities have 20 or more homes and one has over 100 homes!

Q: Does Blockwatch offer video cameras and video monitoring?

A: Not at this time in the effort to keep security simple but we are always developing and video if done right could be a big benefit-we know this.

Q: Does Blockwatch offer home automation services such as turning off and on your alarm system, lighting, thermostat, door locks, etc?

A: Yes and No, how’s that for confusing? Our system is simple to install, use, and highly effective in accomplishing a smarter security system with monitoring that makes sense and affordable with no contracts. The folks that offer all these bells and whistles are charging a pretty penny for it and our experience tells us that they are fun to show your friends but seldom are they used for practical use. We do offer customers the ability to turn on and off their alarm system with a keyfob or a smartphone app if they have our alarm system that communicates via the CELL PHONE towers (GSM).