Instruction Manual for Building Your Own Home Surveillance Systems
**Top DIY Home Security Systems with No Long-Term Contracts in 2025**
In the modern era, home security is a vital concern for many households. Fortunately, the rise of DIY home security systems has made it easier and more affordable for homeowners to safeguard their properties. Here are some of the best DIY home security systems that offer no long-term contracts for self-installation.
### 1. SimpliSafe - Top Recommendation
SimpliSafe is our top recommendation for easy self-installation and no contracts. This system typically takes under an hour to install, with no drilling or professional installers needed. It offers a range of wireless components such as door/window sensors, motion detectors, indoor cameras, flood and smoke detectors, and panic buttons.
Monitoring options include self-monitoring (phone alerts, no monthly fee) or professional monitoring ($20–$30/month) with no long-term contract or cancellation fees. Features like Active Guard monitoring, Intruder Intervention with voice warnings, video verification to speed emergency response, and SmashSafe tech that sends silent alerts even if tampered with are available. The system works with Alexa and Google Assistant for smart home integration.
SimpliSafe boasts a long warranty and a 60-day return policy. It is wireless and portable if you move. Proven customer satisfaction and reliability make SimpliSafe a standout choice.
### 2. ADT Self Setup
ADT Self Setup is the DIY version of the well-known ADT system, with easy installation via the ADT+ app, no professional installer required. It offers Google Nest equipment integration including high-end cameras with person and package detection. Included with some plans is the Nest Aware subscription for enhanced video features. Equipment ships pre-paired for faster setup.
While monitoring costs are somewhat higher than SimpliSafe and smart home features are somewhat limited compared to SimpliSafe, ADT Self Setup reports a shorter installation time than some other DIY systems.
### Other Notable DIY Options
Cove, Abode, Frontpoint, and Deep Sentinel are also recognised for customizable systems and DIY features. However, in terms of balance between ease of installation, monitoring quality, and flexibility without contracts, SimpliSafe and ADT Self Setup lead the way.
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### Summary Table
| System | Self-Install Ease | Contract | Monitoring Cost | Smart Home Integration | Highlights | |-----------------|--------------------------------|-----------------|------------------------|---------------------------|----------------------------------| | **SimpliSafe** | Easy, under 1 hour, wireless | *No long-term* | $0 (self) / $20–30/mo | Alexa, Google Assistant | Active Guard, Intruder Intervention, SmashSafe, no contract | | **ADT Self Setup** | Easy via ADT+ app, pre-paired | *No long-term* | Higher than SimpliSafe | Google Nest products | Nest Aware included in plans, fast setup | | Cove, Abode, Frontpoint, Deep Sentinel | Variable, often easy | Varies | Varies | Varies | Customizable, less proven than top 2 |
For those focused on no long-term contracts and ease of DIY installation, SimpliSafe stands out as the best overall choice, combining robust monitoring features with flexibility and affordability.
If you want premium smart home camera tech integrated with Google Nest, ADT Self Setup is a strong alternative but with a higher price and fewer contract freedoms.
This assessment is current as of mid-2025 and based on hands-on testing and expert reviews.
In the realm of home improvement, incorporating a DIY home security system is becoming increasingly popular for homeowners seeking to safeguard their properties. Notably, SimpliSafe and ADT Self Setup are ideal choices for those prioritizing no long-term contracts, as they offer user-friendly self-installation and a range of home-and-garden security components. By integrating these systems into your lifestyle, you can enhance the security of your home and create a more serene living environment.
