Home Alarm and Camera Installer

Homeowners, landlords and renters in your area, often after a break-in in the neighborhood or when moving into a new home.

Markup on equipment plus a fixed installation fee per job. Some owners also pay a small monthly fee for check-ups or remote support.

• Basic electrical and drilling skills
• Comfortable with Wi-Fi and smartphone apps
• Clear, friendly customer communication

• Many states license alarm or low-voltage installers, so check your state licensing board
• General liability insurance, and check whether you need extra cover for work on customers' wiring
• Some cities require alarm permits or registration, check with your city or county
• Camera placement and recording laws differ by state, so check before pointing cameras at shared or public areas

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on your tools, starter stock of cameras and sensors, vehicle needs and insurance. Your own costs will vary with how much equipment you buy upfront.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on how many installations you complete, the equipment you supply and the prices you set.

Many states license alarm or low-voltage installers, so check your state licensing board. Ask your city or county about alarm permits or registration. Camera placement and recording laws differ by state, so check before pointing cameras at shared or public areas. Check insurance for work on customers' wiring.