Tired of vague pricing guides that leave you guessing? You deserve clear, upfront answers about the cost of a professionally installed business security system. Whether you’re managing a small office or a sprawling warehouse, this guide will help you understand what goes into pricing—and provide real-world examples to help you budget effectively.
While it’s true that costs vary based on the size and complexity of the property, we’ve created this guide to give you transparency. We’ll walk you through the factors that influence pricing, the difference between wired (takeovers) and wireless systems, and examples of systems we’ve installed for Memphis businesses just like yours.
Factors That Influence the Cost of a Business Security System
You might be wondering what really drives the cost of a business security system. Is it the size of the property? The type of equipment? Or the installation time? Here’s what you need to know:
1. System Size and Complexity
Larger properties with more entry points and areas to cover require additional sensors, keypads, and other components. For example, a small office might only need one motion detector and two door sensors, while a large warehouse may require multiple keypads and zone expanders to cover every area.
2. Wired (Takeovers) vs. Wireless Systems
We’ll dive deeper into this topic later, but here’s a quick overview: Wired takeovers (also known as system upgrades) often reuse existing components, saving costs on equipment. Wireless systems, on the other hand, are ideal for new builds or properties without a pre-existing system and are highly flexible.
3. Components Installed
The specific devices needed will depend on your property’s layout and security needs. Common components include:
- Control Panels & Keypads – The central hub of your security system, allowing you to arm, disarm, and manage settings easily.
- Motion Detectors – Sensors that detect movement in key areas and trigger alarms or alerts when unexpected activity occurs.
- Door & Window Sensors – Detect when doors or windows are opened or tampered with, ensuring perimeter protection.
- Glass Break Detectors – Sound-based sensors that detect the unique frequency of breaking glass, alerting you to forced entry attempts.
- Zone Expanders (for larger systems) – Devices that increase the number of sensors and zones your system can monitor, essential for expanding coverage in larger properties.
4. Labor and Installation Time
Some installations are simple and can be completed in a few hours, while others may take multiple technicians working over several days. Factors like the complexity of the property, the need for ladders, and wiring requirements all impact labor costs.
5. Monitoring and Maintenance
Professional monitoring ensures 24/7 protection, providing real-time alerts to help prevent incidents. App control adds convenience by allowing you to manage your system remotely, whether it’s locking doors or viewing live camera feeds. A maintenance plan ensures your system stays reliable, reducing costly repairs.
Wired (Takeovers) vs. Wireless Systems: What’s the Difference?
Wired Systems (Takeovers) | Wireless Systems |
These systems reuse existing infrastructure, such as wiring and hardwired sensors. This can save costs but often requires upgrades or zone expanders to accommodate additional devices. | Fully wireless systems use Wi-Fi or radio signals, making them ideal for new builds or businesses without pre-existing systems. They’re also highly scalable, perfect for businesses planning to expand. |
What We See at Frase Protection
From our decades of experience, 70% of our quotes are for wired takeovers, while 30% are for new wireless systems. Takeovers can range from simple upgrades to highly complex integrations of multiple systems, often requiring creative solutions to unify everything seamlessly.
An existing security panel that will be used in a wired takeover.
Why It Matters
If you already have a system in place, takeovers can significantly reduce costs by reusing existing infrastructure. On the other hand, wireless systems are a better fit for businesses starting fresh, offering flexibility and scalability for future growth.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Below are real-world examples of projects Frase Protection has completed for businesses in Memphis. These scenarios highlight how factors like business size, system type, and installation complexity impact the total cost.
💡 Important Note: These examples are provided for reference only. Every business has unique security needs, and pricing is customized based on factors like property size, existing infrastructure, and security goals. Our team provides personalized consultations to ensure your system is tailored to your business’s specific requirements.
Small Retail Business: Security System Takeover
Project Overview: A small retail business located in a commercial strip center needed a security system upgrade. The property had two entry doors and one motion detector. We took over an existing system, reusing some of the existing wiring to help keep costs low.
What Was Installed:
- One control panel with a keypad for arming/disarming the system.
Time Required:
- One technician completed the installation in four hours.
Quoted Costs:
- Install Cost: $499 + tax (including components and labor).
By reusing existing wiring, we minimized costs for the customer. - Monthly Cost: $49.50 for monitoring and app control.
Medium-Sized Dental Office: New Wireless Install
Project Overview: A standalone dental office required a new security system installation. The property had two entry doors, an open office layout, and a front-facing lobby with large windows. A fully wireless system was the best fit for flexibility and easy expansion in the future.
What Was Installed:
- Two door sensors for the entry points.
- One motion detector in the main office area.
- Two glass break detectors in the front lobby and back room.
- A control panel with a keypad for arming/disarming the system.
Time Required:
- One technician completed the installation in four hours.
Quoted Costs:
- Base Install Cost: $599 (includes panel, keypad, and initial labor).
- Add-ons: $239 for additional detectors.
- Total Install Cost: $838 + tax.
- Monthly Cost: $49.50 for monitoring and app control.
Medium-Sized Plumbing Warehouse: System Upgrade
Project Overview: A mid-sized plumbing warehouse required a security system upgrade. The existing hardwired infrastructure was reused, but key components were upgraded to enhance security and reliability.
What Was Installed:
- Three zone expanders to accommodate additional sensors.
- Three new wireless motion detectors to replace aging equipment.
- A control panel with a keypad for arming/disarming the system.
Time Required:
- One technician completed the installation in one day.
Quoted Costs:
- Base Install Cost: $599 (includes panel, keypad, and initial labor).
- Add-ons: $1,680 for zone expanders, motion detectors, and additional labor.
- Total Install Cost: $2,279 + tax.
- Monthly Cost: $59.50 for monitoring and app control.
Large Commercial Property: 750,000 sq. ft. Warehouse Upgrade
Project Overview: This large warehouse facility required two control panels to allow different departments to manage security independently while maintaining a unified monitoring system. The existing hardwired infrastructure was reused where possible, with significant upgrades to modernize the system.
What Was Installed:
- 15 zone expanders to handle approximately 130 zones across the facility.
- Two control panels with keypads for arming/disarming each system.
- One additional keypad for added convenience.
Time Required:
- Eight full days of work by two technicians.
Quoted Costs:
- Base Install Cost: $599.
- Add-ons: $34,160 for expanders, additional keypads, and labor.
- Total Install Cost: $34,759 + tax.
- Monthly Cost: $195.50 for monitoring, including app control and a service maintenance plan.
Large Commercial Property: 190,000 sq. ft. Freightliner Dealership Wireless Install
Project Overview: A newly built, large commercial property required an entirely wireless security system for flexibility. Due to the size and layout, multiple wireless repeaters were installed to ensure signal reliability.
What Was Installed:
- One control panel with a keypad for arming/disarming.
- Four additional keypads.
- 46 wireless motion sensors.
- 31 wireless door sensors.
- Seven wireless repeaters to ensure coverage.
Time Required:
- Five full days of work by four technicians.
Quoted Costs:
- Install Cost: $15,220 + tax.
- Monthly Cost: $49.50 for monitoring and app control.
General Cost Ranges for Installed Security Systems
In addition to the specific examples above, here’s a general overview of what businesses of different sizes can expect to invest in a professionally installed security system.
Business Size | Square Footage | Number of Zones | Typical Install Cost Range* | Monthly Fee* |
Small Business | Under 5,000 sq. ft. | 1–8 zones | $500–$1,500 | $40–$60 |
Medium Business | 5,000–10,000 sq. ft. | 9–20 zones | $2,000–$8,000 | $50–$75 |
Large Business | 10,000 sq. ft+ | 21+ zones | $10,000–$35,000+ | $50–$250 |
**Monthly fees depend on system size and features, such as app control, 24/7 monitoring, and whether or not a monthly maintenance service plan is included.
The Long-Term Value of Professional Security System Installation
Investing in a professionally installed security system may seem like a higher upfront cost, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. Here’s why:
- Reliability: Professionally installed systems are designed for durability and dependability. Unlike DIY options, which may rely on lower-grade equipment, professional systems are built to last and are less likely to experience failures during critical moments.
- Scalability: As your business grows, so do your security needs. Professionally installed systems are easily scalable, allowing you to add cameras, access control, or other components without starting from scratch. This flexibility saves time and money as your property evolves.
- Expert Support: With a professionally installed system, you have access to expert guidance and support. From initial setup to ongoing maintenance, a trusted security provider ensures your system is optimized and functioning at its best—giving you peace of mind.
- Avoiding Hidden Costs: Cutting corners with a DIY system might save money upfront, but it can lead to higher costs in the long run. DIY systems often require frequent repairs, replacements, or upgrades to meet business needs. Additionally, gaps in coverage or unreliable equipment can result in costly incidents, such as theft or vandalism.
When it comes to protecting your business, investing in a professional security system isn’t just about the technology—it’s about ensuring the safety of your property, employees, and customers for years to come.
Why Choose Frase Protection?
At Frase Protection, we believe protecting your business starts with understanding your unique needs. Our thorough consultation process ensures every quote is accurate and tailored to your property.
Here’s How We Stand Out:
- Customized Consultations: We evaluate your property to design the perfect security system.
- Transparent Pricing: No surprises—just clear, detailed quotes.
- Proactive Planning: We address potential issues upfront to save you time and money later.
- Local Expertise: Decades of experience serving Memphis businesses give us insight into the unique challenges of our community.
Without a detailed consultation, businesses risk unexpected costs from overlooked issues, such as outdated wiring or incomplete system coverage.
Read more: Security Tips for Memphis Businesses to Reduce Theft and Break-Ins
Cost-Saving Tips for Business Owners on a Budget
Reliable security doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re a small business owner looking for cost-effective ways to protect your property, here are some smart strategies to maximize your security system without overspending:
1. Prioritize Key Areas for Coverage
Instead of trying to cover every square inch of your property, focus your budget on protecting high-risk areas like entrances, exits, and cash-handling locations.
For example, a retail store might prioritize cameras for the front entrance, cash register, and back door while skipping low-traffic storage areas.
2. Start Small and Scale Over Time
Professional security systems are scalable, which means you can start with the essentials and expand as your budget allows. Begin with basic components like a control panel, a few cameras, and door sensors, then add features like access control or additional cameras later.
3. Leverage Existing Equipment
If your business already has a security system in place, consider reusing the existing hardwired components like door and window sensors, motion detectors, and glass breaks.
4. Work with a Trusted Security Provider
Partnering with a local security expert ensures you receive accurate quotes and tailored advice to fit your budget. A transparent provider, like Frase Protection, will help you identify cost-effective solutions without unnecessary add-ons.
For example, a glass storefront might seem like it requires several individual window sensors to monitor each pane, which can quickly add up in costs. A professional security provider might instead recommend a single glass break sensor to secure the entire front area. This approach saves money while ensuring the same level of protection.
5. Plan for Maintenance and Upgrades
Budgeting for routine maintenance helps prevent costly breakdowns or system failures. Many security companies, including Frase Protection, offer affordable service plans to keep your system running smoothly.
6. Take Advantage of Tax Deductions
In many cases, security system investments can qualify as tax-deductible business expenses. Consult your accountant to ensure you’re taking advantage of potential savings.
Making an Informed Investment in Your Business’s Security
Investing in a professionally installed security system isn’t just about the upfront cost—it’s about long-term protection, reliability, and peace of mind. While every business has different security needs, taking a proactive approach ensures you’re protecting what matters most: your employees, customers, and assets.
By weighing your options, understanding the costs involved, and working with a trusted security provider, you can make a decision that fits your business today and scales for the future.
If you’re ready to explore your options, Frase Protection is here to help. Contact us for a consultation and let’s build a security solution that works for you.