Beware of unlicensed Burglar, Fire Alarm, CCTV, Access Control Dealers.  Many home theatre and data/telecom companies claim that they can install surveillance (CCTV) systems and access control systems. 

According to New York State 19 N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. 195.2 Any company engaged in the business of installing, servicing or maintaining Fire, Burglar, Access Control or CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) Systems must be licensed by the Department of State.

Why is this important to consumers?

1. 1.Installers licensed by the State are required to complete 60 hours of course work on the proper installation of security systems according to Low Voltage Codes and according to State & Federal Laws pertaining to audio & video recording.
   

2. 2.Improper installations may lead to legal liability, fire, loss of property, personal injury or loss of life.
   

3. 3.Licensed Installers are checked by the state to insure that they have never been convicted of a felony.
   

4. 4.Licensed Installers and their employees have their fingerprints on file with NYS Department of State.
   

5. 5.Licensed Dealers are more likely to maintain a liability insurance policy that explicitly covers security system installations.  A standard corporate liability policy, or your homeowners insurance may not cover damages caused by unlicensed installers.
   

To Verify that a Potential Installer is Licensed

Visit the NYS DOS Dealer Search Here