Security system questions, answered by a licensed Alabama installer
Straight answers to the questions people ask James Tackett most: what a system costs, how Alarm.com monitoring works, and what to expect on install day. JT’s is based in Hoover, licensed by the Alabama Electronic Security Board (AESBL #2059), and serves all of Alabama. Don’t see your question? Call or text (205) 593-9507.
Prices and answers last updated September 2026.
Cost & contracts
How much does security camera installation cost in the Birmingham area?
Installed security cameras from JT’s typically cost $475 to $1,100 per camera, including equipment and labor. Simple Wi-Fi or mesh network setups sit at the low end; fully hardwired systems, with cable pulled to every camera, sit at the high end. Cameras carry the manufacturer’s warranty, and adding them to a monitored system costs $5 a month per camera. Owner James Tackett, AESBL-licensed (#2059), performs every install in Hoover and across Alabama. Call or text (205) 593-9507 for a quote.
How much does a 5-camera security system cost?
A hardwired five-camera security system from JT’s averages about $5,500, or roughly $1,100 per camera, and much of that is skilled labor. The price covers the cameras, pulling cable to each location, mounting, setting up the network, and a recorder that stores about seven days of video. There’s no monthly fee; adding hard drives extends recording time. Owner James Tackett (AESBL #2059) installs statewide from Hoover. Call or text (205) 593-9507.
How much does a monitored Alarm.com security system cost?
A professionally installed Alarm.com security system from JT’s starts at about $900 for a panel, two door sensors, and a motion detector, including installation. Monitoring 24/7 costs $54.99 a month with no long-term contract, plus $5 a month per camera for video. Glass-break sensors, garage door control, and cameras add to the upfront cost, and you can start small and add devices later. Call or text James Tackett in Hoover at (205) 593-9507 for a quote.
Do I have to sign a long-term contract?
No. JT’s does not require long-term contracts; all monitoring agreements are month to month. You can change or cancel service without the multi-year commitment many national alarm companies require. Systems are installed by owner James Tackett and monitored 24/7 through Alarm.com and Rapid Response. Call or text (205) 593-9507 to talk through options.
Can a monitored security system lower my homeowners insurance?
Many homeowners insurance companies offer a discount for a professionally monitored alarm system, and eligibility varies by insurer and location. Alarm.com directs customers to their service provider for the monitoring certificate insurers ask for, and for JT’s customers, that’s James Tackett. Ask your insurer what discount applies, then call or text (205) 593-9507 for your certificate.
Alarm.com systems
What is Alarm.com, and why can’t I buy it directly?
Alarm.com is a smart security platform that runs home and business security, video, access control, and automation, and it’s sold only through licensed, authorized service providers, not directly to consumers. Those providers design, install, monitor, and support each system. JT’s is an authorized Alarm.com partner based in Hoover, serving all of Alabama, including the greater Birmingham area.
How does Alarm.com professional monitoring work?
Alarm.com systems send alarm signals over a dedicated, secure cellular connection to a 24/7 central monitoring station, where trained operators contact you and dispatch police, fire, or EMS. Alarm.com itself is the platform, not the monitoring station. JT’s systems are monitored by Rapid Response, and James Tackett is Rapid Response monitoring certified. Call or text (205) 593-9507 with questions.
What is Crash and Smash protection?
Crash and Smash protection is a patented Alarm.com feature that still triggers an alarm if a burglar breaks in and destroys the security panel during the entry countdown. Alarm.com’s cloud watches for the countdown to start; if the panel goes offline before sending a disarm or alarm signal, it reports a suspected break-in to the monitoring station. Every security panel JT’s sells comes with Crash and Smash protection.
Will my security system work during a power or internet outage?
Yes. Alarm.com systems installed by JT’s communicate over a dedicated cellular connection, so alarms still reach monitoring if the internet is down, the power is out, or a phone line is cut. The Qolsys IQ Panel 4 also sends over Wi-Fi at the same time, and its backup battery is UL-certified for 24 hours, though heavy use shortens that. Optional backup power can keep cameras online longer.
Can you upgrade or take over my existing alarm system?
Yes. JT’s services most major alarm brands, not just Alarm.com, including systems originally installed by ADT, Brinks, and SimpliSafe. Many existing panels and sensors, including DSC, Honeywell, Johnson Controls, GE/Interlogix, Qolsys, and 2GIG equipment, can be upgraded to Alarm.com without major rewiring. Owner James Tackett has worked on alarm systems since 1998. Call or text (205) 593-9507 to describe your setup.
I moved into a home with an Alarm.com system. Can I use it?
Usually, yes. Alarm.com equipment left in a home can often be reactivated under a new account with a local service provider. First check the security panel for the previous provider’s contact information. If there isn’t one, or you’d rather switch, JT’s can inspect the equipment, activate monitoring, and set up the Alarm.com app for you anywhere in Alabama. To take over the panel, James Tackett will need its dealer code or installer code.
Can I take my security system with me when I move?
Sometimes. Whether an Alarm.com system can move with you depends on the equipment, your new home, and whether it’s inside your provider’s service area. Alarm.com recommends contacting your provider before you move, not after. If you’re moving anywhere in Alabama, call or text JT’s at (205) 593-9507 early so James Tackett can plan the relocation or a redesign.
Who do I call for service, billing, or a low battery warning?
Call your service provider, not Alarm.com. Alarm.com sends service, billing, plan changes, new devices, and sensor battery questions to the local provider who installed the system. For JT’s customers, that’s owner James Tackett: call or text (205) 593-9507, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, or email JT@JTs-Surveillance.com.
Someone came to my door saying they’re from Alarm.com. Are they?
No. Alarm.com is a software company that sells its platform to independent service providers; it doesn’t send employees door to door to sell security systems. If someone claims to be from Alarm.com, Alarm.com asks that you report it to wecare@alarm.com. JT’s doesn’t knock on doors; contact James Tackett directly at (205) 593-9507 to verify anyone claiming to work with him.
How do I keep my Alarm.com account secure?
Alarm.com recommends a strong, unique password, two-factor authentication, and separate app logins and panel user codes for each person in your household. Face ID or Touch ID adds another layer on your phone. When James Tackett sets up a JT’s system, he can create individual user codes and logins so you can see exactly who armed or disarmed the system.
Installation & service
How long does a security system installation take?
Most home security installations by JT’s are finished the same day or the next day once the equipment is in hand. James Tackett first confirms which equipment is best for the job, then has it shipped or picks it up in Homewood. Timing depends on system size, camera count, and wiring. Business and multi-site systems take longer and are scheduled around your operating hours. James performs every install personally, anywhere in Alabama.
Do you install security cameras I already bought?
Yes. JT’s installs customer-purchased security camera systems for $450 per camera, which covers the wiring, labor, and materials. Owner James Tackett, licensed by the Alabama Electronic Security Board (AESBL #2059), runs the cable, mounts each camera, and connects it to your recorder or app. JT’s is based in Hoover and installs cameras anywhere in Alabama. Call or text (205) 593-9507 with your camera model for a quote.
Do you install video doorbells?
Yes. JT’s installs video doorbell cameras for $450, covering the labor and materials to install a doorbell you’ve already bought. Owner James Tackett, licensed by the Alabama Electronic Security Board (AESBL #2059), handles every install himself, from his base in Hoover to anywhere in Alabama. Call or text (205) 593-9507 to schedule, and have your doorbell’s make and model handy.
Who actually installs my system?
Owner James Tackett installs every JT’s system himself; no subcontractors. James is a second-generation alarm technician who started in the trade with his father in 1998. He is licensed by the Alabama Electronic Security Board (AESBL #2059), an Alarm.com partner, a Sonos-certified integrator, and Rapid Response monitoring certified. JT’s Surveillance and Media, LLC was established in Hoover in December 2019.
What areas do you serve?
JT’s is based in Hoover and serves all of Alabama, including the greater Birmingham area: Birmingham, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Homewood, Mountain Brook, Pelham, and Alabaster. Owner James Tackett installs and services home and business security systems statewide. Call or text (205) 593-9507 to schedule an install or a quote anywhere in Alabama.
What are your hours, and how do I reach you?
JT’s is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, and closed on weekends. The fastest way to reach owner James Tackett is to call or text (205) 593-9507, or email JT@JTs-Surveillance.com. The business is based at 961 Mountain Oaks Drive in Hoover, AL 35226 and serves all of Alabama.
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. Every security system JT’s installs is backed by a three-year guarantee from JT’s Surveillance and Media, LLC, covering equipment and installation, on top of the factory warranty. Security cameras are the one exception; they’re covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. If something James Tackett installed isn’t working right, call or text (205) 593-9507 and he’ll come back out. JT’s is AESBL-licensed (#2059) and BBB A+ Accredited.
Are there DIY options?
Yes. JT’s offers custom DIY security kits delivered to your door, ready to install, for people who’d rather set up their own system. Alarm.com supports everything from DIY kits to full professional installation, with every system professionally configured and monitored. Call or text James Tackett in Hoover at (205) 593-9507 to put together a kit.
Smart home & automation
Which smart home platforms do you support?
JT’s integrates Alarm.com security with Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa, and with Lutron and Sonos. Alarm.com officially supports Lutron Caséta with Smart Bridge, RA2 Select, RadioRA 2, and HomeWorks QS, so one app can arm your alarm and set your lights and shades. James Tackett is an Alarm.com partner and Sonos-certified integrator based in Hoover.
What home automation can you set up beyond security?
JT’s automates lighting and shades (Lutron), thermostats, whole-home audio (Sonos), smart locks, and garage doors, tied into your Alarm.com security system. Alarm.com rules can react automatically, like shutting down HVAC when a carbon monoxide or smoke alarm trips. For fully local control, James Tackett also builds on Home Assistant. Call (205) 593-9507 to spec a build.
Business security
Do you install security systems for businesses?
Yes. JT’s designs and installs Alarm.com for Business systems for offices, retail, restaurants, warehouses, and multi-site properties across Alabama. One dashboard covers intrusion alarms, video, access control, and thermostats at every location. Systems include encrypted networking with cellular backup and 24/7 monitoring, all handled by owner James Tackett, AESBL-licensed (#2059) and BBB A+ Accredited.
How does Alarm.com business access control work?
Alarm.com access control from JT’s replaces keys with mobile credentials, keypad codes, or key cards, managed from your phone or laptop. You can grant or revoke a person’s access in seconds, set schedules, and see who entered each door. It’s cloud-based, so no server is needed on site, and it works across multiple locations. Call or text James Tackett at (205) 593-9507 for a walkthrough.
Credentials
Is JT’s licensed in Alabama?
Yes. JT’s Surveillance and Media, LLC is licensed by the Alabama Electronic Security Board, license #2059, which is required to install and service alarm systems in Alabama; you can verify it at aesbl.alabama.gov. The company is also BBB A+ Accredited, an Alarm.com partner, a Sonos-certified integrator, and Rapid Response monitoring certified. Owner James Tackett has been in the trade since 1998.
Still have a question?
Ask James directly. Call or text Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, or email JT@JTs-Surveillance.com anytime.
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