ADT is one of the most popular home security services in the U.S. Many people recognize the little blue octagon in neighbors’ yards and windows and want to be part of that safe community. However, some customers have noted that ADT raises their rates while under contract.
ADT reserves the right to raise a user’s rate after one year of service, according to their customer terms and conditions agreement. This increase occurs within the initial contract period. However, customers also reserve the right to contest the price hike or be released from their contract.
While the price increase may seem inconvenient, there are many benefits to using the ADT service, which is why customers stay with the company. Keep reading to learn more about ADT rate increases, how you can lower your rate, and typical ADT fees and discounts.
ADT Has the Right To Raise Rates After One Year of Service
According to item 3 in ADT’s terms and conditions agreement, the company has the right to increase your service rate after one year. Since contracts with ADT last anywhere from three to five years, there’s a chance that your rate will increase during your initial contract period.
If you feel the rate hike is unreasonable, you have the right to contest the charge in writing. You’ll be let out of your contract if ADT doesn’t waive the increase. Though the higher rate may be inconvenient, many choose to stick with ADT because of the benefits the company provides.
Can You Lower Your ADT Rate?
Depending on your ADT security package, you may pay anywhere from $56 to $82 per month. However, you can negotiate a lower ADT rate.
Companies are interested in keeping loyal customers, and they’re willing to negotiate with you to keep your business. If you’re interested in lowering your ADT rate, here are a few things you can try:
Do a Price Comparison
Take some time to research other home security companies in your area and see what they’re charging for similar services that you’re receiving from ADT. If you find a cheaper rate for a similar product, let your ADT service representative know.
Many companies will do a price match, offering a service at a lower price than their competitors. ADT may be happy to match a lower price if you ask.
Change to a Different Package
Another option is to change to a different package. Since ADT’s packages are progressively priced, dropping to a service package with fewer bells and whistles will lower your monthly rate considerably.
Negotiate Your Rate
Many service companies will actually lower your rate if you ask them to. Bill negotiation can be a great resource if done correctly.
You’ll want to go into the conversation confident and prepared. Talk about things such as:
- How you’ve never missed a payment and are a great customer.
- How much you love the company, and would hate to leave over a price hike.
- The lower prices you’ve found at competitor companies.
- Why you’re unhappy with the rate increase and how this new price will affect you financially.
You can also ask about loyalty discounts or other benefits that they may be able to give you.
Remember that bill negotiation conversations can last quite a while, so don’t get frustrated or angry during the call. Stay cool, calm, collected, and confident throughout the conversation.
Hire a Bill Negotiation Service
You can also hire someone to do the bill negotiation for you. Bill negotiation services have the expertise to call service companies like ADT on your behalf and negotiate a lower rate.
You’ll have to provide previous bills and other necessary information to help them negotiate successfully.
Most of these companies will only charge you if they’re successful, taking a percentage of your savings, so check the policies of the service provider you choose.
Additional ADT Fees
Several situations may cause an additional charge on your account, such as:
- Early contract termination: If you end your initial 36 – 60 month contract early, you’ll likely receive an early termination fee of 75% of your remaining monthly charges.
- Missing a payment: If you fail to make your monthly payment, ADT may charge you a late fee, including interest on the unpaid amount.
- False alarm due to user error: You may be charged a service fee if an ADT representative comes to your house due to a user error, such as improperly following installation instructions or failure to close a door or window, leading to an alarm.
Discounts for ADT Customers
Being an ADT customer isn’t all fees; there are also some discounts that you can take advantage of.
One of these discounts is cheaper home insurance. Many insurance companies will give you a discount for having a professionally installed security system. Check with your insurance agent to see discounts available to ADT customers.
ADT also regularly has specials with discounts for home devices and other special promotions. Be sure to check their website for promotions you can take advantage of.
Benefits of Using ADT
Even though ADT can seem expensive, especially if they’re trying to raise your monthly rate, there are several benefits to using the service that many people find outweigh the cost of the inconvenient rate increase.
Some of these benefits include:
- Theft protection: If you experience a robbery while your ADT equipment is installed, the company will pay up to $500 of your home insurance deductible.
- Money-back guarantee: If you’re a new ADT customer, you can rest easy with a six-month money-back guarantee if you decide that ADT isn’t right for you.
- 24/7 professional monitoring: No matter when an emergency occurs, ADT is ready to help should the need arise.
- Peace of mind: For many, the most crucial benefit of using ADT is peace of mind. Many people feel safer knowing their home is protected at all hours of the day. Whether in the middle of the night or during the day, ADT is there to help.
Final Thoughts
ADT may raise their rates on customers after one year of service. However, many customers feel that the price increase is a minor inconvenience that doesn’t outweigh the benefits of using ADT.
If you’re unhappy with the increased price, be sure to contact an ADT representative within 30-days of the rate increase notification.
