SecurityAlarm.ca is the Canadian home security guide. We may earn a commission when you call or request a quote through this page. See how we make money.
A monitored alarm system means a 24/7 monitoring centre — not just your phone — responds when a sensor trips. In Canada the monitored field comes down to a handful of real options, and the differences that matter are contract terms, Quebec coverage, and how the signal reaches the monitoring centre.
What separates monitored systems
Signal path: systems that reach the monitoring centre over cellular keep working when your internet is down or cut; Wi-Fi-only monitoring is a weak link, especially rurally. Contract: subsidized-equipment offers run on multi-year agreements; no-contract monitoring exists but you buy hardware upfront. Coverage: two of the best-known U.S. brands don’t monitor in Quebec at all.
The monitored options in Canada
Alarm Guard — professional monitoring with full French Canadian coverage; our partner provider (see disclosure above).
ADT by TELUS — the biggest national brand, Quebec and French support, professional or self-install.
ThinkPro — optional professional monitoring on a no-contract basis with published pricing ($19.99/mth Value package at verification).
Frontpoint — DIY install with professional monitoring, everywhere except Quebec.
Ring — subscription professional monitoring on DIY hardware, outside Quebec, billed in USD.
Get monitored coverage quoted for your address.
Questions that separate a good monitored deal from a bad one
- Does the system communicate over cellular, internet, or both — and what happens in an outage?
- What is the exact agreement length, and the rate after any promotional period?
- What’s the monitoring centre’s verification protocol before dispatch (to avoid false-alarm fees your municipality may charge)?
- Who owns the equipment at the end of the term?
Related guides
Weighing whether you need monitoring at all? Read DIY vs. professional monitoring. Comparing the two big Quebec-capable providers? See ADT by TELUS vs. Alarm Guard. Full field: best home security in Canada.
Frequently asked questions
What does “monitored” actually mean in a home alarm system?
A 24/7 monitoring centre receives your alarm signals, attempts to verify (call, app, video where supported), and dispatches emergency services per your protocol — response happens even when you can’t see your phone.
Do monitored alarm systems require a phone line?
No — modern systems communicate over cellular, internet, or both. Cellular (as primary or backup) is the more resilient choice since it survives internet outages and cut lines.
Can monitoring reduce false-alarm fines?
Monitoring centres verify before dispatching, which reduces false dispatches — relevant because many Canadian municipalities charge fees for repeated false alarms. Ask any provider about their verification protocol.