Unbiased Security APX Alarm Customer Reviews

(Added Mar 12/10) Ok, there are a lot of bad reviews on this company, but it is mostly on the side of the salesmen and technicians. So after a little research I found the problem. This company recruits people to sell and such but isn't able to do ethic control on them when they are out in the field. So my suggestion is to call the company if you are thinking of buying and ask the customer service (which is amazing by the way) and see if you're being lied to or not. Don't buy from the liars, buy from the sales that are honest because they will get you the right technician and do the paperwork correctly and make your life a whole lot easier.

(Added Mar 4/10) I had my APX alarm system installed in January of this year, 2010. My friend, who was recently coming over to borrow a tool from me, entered into my home and didn't know the alarm code. I forgot to give it to him being that the alarm is new in my home. He called me worried as an operator asked him for his name and password over the intercom system on the keypad. I rushed home, I was two minutes away, and found the cops had already arrived. My friend told me that it wasn't longer then five minutes before the police arrived. I showed my ID and thanked the officer for the fast response as well as apologized for the false call. My friend was very satisfied with the response time and is a firm believer in the assistance alarm systems could provide in a time of need. The system worked exactly as I hoped it would.

(Added Feb 25/10) After much research my wife and I decided to go with APX. During our research we discovered many negative reviews from this company, however most of the other companies were rude and pushy. We compiled bids from many companies and APX was by far the best. The installer showed up at his appointed time, installed the alarm system and when he completed we decided that the spot originally picked for the control panel (i.e. keypad) was not where we wanted it. The installer was eager to please us and relocated the panel without any problem. We were promised a second control panel which the installer said was back ordered. I contacted APX today, they set up an appointment time and will install the panel next week. What was impressive was that after I talked to them from work, my wife was contacted by APX to schedule the install. She was not aware I had already accomplished this until the lady on the phone went into my account and discovered I had already done so. They provided all they said they would including what I consider very good customer service. They seem to be on top of their game.

(Added Feb 25/10) I've had APX for almost a year now and am very happy with my service. I can't compare it to any other services, because this is the first alarm company I've ever used. I'm in a 3 year contract, but I've never been one to shy away from the contracts (cell phone, satellite, etc.). The way I see it, it locks in the price so I don't have to worry about it going up and I'm not moving anywhere any time soon. Even if I did move, they'll move/reinstall the service for free. Every interaction I've had with them has been professional and courteous, so no complaints there. I know they monitor the service well, because I've accidentally set it off a couple times and within the minute they were calling my cell to check if everything was ok. The equipment runs great, never had any problems there besides user error. All in all, I'm very satisfied with the entire experience and would definitely recommend them to friends and family.

(Added Feb 24/10) I am very disappointed and absolutely not satisfied with the alarm system I got in the summer of 2007 from APX. It not only does not cover any potential intrusions through any windows or have any motion detectors in the house, it has not functioned properly when needed on several occasions for medical help. It has also caused interference with my telephone line and internet DSL service due to APX never having installed a filter on my phone line, which my telephone provider has informed me is necessary and is the responsibility of the alarm service to install. I have encountered quite friendly customer service reps at APX who are all too quick to transfer me to other friendly APX technicians that have often had me push certain numbers on the alarm keypad in order to "test" or "fix" something. They have been known to leave the system on "test" mode when my intentions were to have it active and hopefully functioning properly. Just because they say "perfect! It's working just like it should." does not mean that it actually is on many occasions on my side. I'd bet Jack the Ripper was quite friendly too just prior to striking! Most recently I was pushed to purchase a new panel for a supposedly discounted price through Facebook. That's definitely not going to happen.

(Added Feb 14/10) I placed my alarm in in August 09. I live in San Juan Puerto Rico. I found the USA representative very helpful and the techs that work on staff great. On Jan 29, 2010 an intruder attempted to enter my house. The alarm went off, and Apx called me right away to tell me the sensor went off in the kitchen. They called the police and they were at my house within 5 minutes. They saved my life. So many complaints here on this board, but let me tell you, this alarm company saved my life. Yes, it is expensive, but it is worth every single penny. They are professional and a great company. I think they are a great company! Thanks APX!

(Added Jan 31/10) I work for APX alarm as a tech support rep. The system does have some flaws and yes, the sales reps don't tell the whole truth. But you can't find better customer service anywhere. I'm not just saying it because I work for the company. The only reason why systems don't respond correctly is because of poor upkeep. Customers need to test their systems periodically...let's face it, it's man made equipment which is bound to fail. Your investing your money in it, why not check it every now and then. As a tech support rep, the majority of people that are upset at me is because they don't know their security code or they never knew how to you the system. It gets down to lazy people. You can't buy a car and forget to fill it with gas or change the oil. The alarm system is good and will work. It just depends on you to check it and how to effectively use it.

(Added Jan 9/10) Overall a great experience. I got a knock on the door, but everything was explained very clearly and I read the contract thoroughly before signing. APX monthly monitoring was actually LESS expensive than others in my area. I knew I had made the right decision when I actually bumped one of the sensors...and had a call within 10 seconds asking for the password. Going door to door may not be the best way of doing it, but the service is worth it.

(Added Dec 12/09) We have had this system for two years. We pay extra for fire coverage. Unfortunately, early Thanksgiving we had a house fire. The fire alarms never went off. Apex insists we have a battery operated smoke alarm system. I can assure you, we do not. How would I know the difference? I'm a retired firefighter. I know all about how these systems work. I can't speak for the rest of the system, but if you have the fire coverage call them and make sure your system is functioning. No one else should be put into our situation. I woould NOT recommend this service. Apex has a long way to go in customer service and it's apparent they need to have much better training of their personnel. No one needs to be arguing with these folks after a fire. It either works, or it doesn't. In this case it didn't, we're stuck with the results, no one else needs to go through this.

(Added Dec 4/09) I am very dissatisfied with APX Alarm. How and why I got talked into changing from Brinks to APX still mystifies me. I was told I could get out of my Brinks contract easily because I had had it so long [over 5 years]. I did not realize I was on a year to year Brinks contract after the initial contract. I ended up paying a much higher fee with APX. It is my fault for changing to APX, but I do not think the sales rep should have said it was standard to get out of the Brinks contract that currently was in place. The sales rep also did not point out the 3 day cancellation clause in the contract, which definitely should have been done at the time the contract was signed. Now I am stuck with paying for a disconnected Brinks and a connected APX for 3 years.

(Added Nov 24/09) APX Alarm came to my door and talked me out of my ADT alarm, telling that they were a much better monitoring company and telling me how terrible ADT was. I signed a 3 year contract at a much higher price thinking I was getting better service. I was just notified that APX has sold my monitoring contract to ADT. So I am back with ADT at a much higher price then before APX came along. I feel very scammed and would not recommend either company after the way both companies customer service treated me and my inquires.

(Added Nov 16/09) Apx alarms pulled a couple of fast ones on me. First, after about a year they stopped providing the direct line to the police and contracted rent-a-cops for alarm response. Secondly, I was recently informed that my contract was sold to ADT. Origanlly, I signed a contract with APX becasue they claimed to have features and customer service that their main competitor in the area (ADT) did not. None the less the now "sister company" seems to have now met the standard becasue they own my contract. This is a same on me moment because I did not read stipulation #14 on the back of the contract which states they can do this. My point is, as consumers you might as well choose whomever has the best price point (when apples are to apples) because your contract can be traded like currency. Also, read all the stipulations in the contract. In both of my cases they protected themselves contractually. When you find these stipulation, shame the salesman into giving you a better price. After all do you really sleep better at night knowing that rent-a-cop is watching over a contract they may sell tomorrow. I really hate having my credit card and billing info traded. Wouldn't you?

(Added Nov 2/09) I signed up with APX several months ago and have been very pleased. Although the monthly monitoring fees are about double what I was paying before, I was able to cancel my telephone landline because the APX monitoring is all cellular and not through the telephone landline as was my previous monitoring company. I was thinking of cancelling the landline anyways and just use a cell phone. So, at the end of the day I am actually saving money. Also, APX provides excellent service. I have had a few false alarms and they have responded instantly. I also recently constructed a detached garage which I wanted alarmed also. APX supplied me with the necessary hardware at a very reasonable price. I don't normally sign contracts with door to door salespeople but in this case I'm glad I did.

(Added Nov 2/09) I was contacted by an APX employee who was very professional. After our discussion at my kitchen table I signed up for service and the installition took place that night or the next and later I had the smoke/fire alarm placed. I have had 2 or 3 false alarms ( one my radio fell into my metal trash can setting off the broken glass alarm, remotely pressing the panic alarm instead of the away alarm, and once a friend opened the door with the alarm set) and all were handled in a timely, responsible manner. So far, I am very satisfied with the service.

(Added Oct 24/09) Your house is not secure with this company! My mother had this system placed at her house about....(read the whole review)

(Added Oct 15/09) Although I wish it had not taken so long, a representative from APX Alarm's own consumer advocacy division recently contacted us about an ongoing unresolved contract dispute. After reviewing our circumstances, APX called us and offered a fully satisfactory resolution. This is a large and growing company and I hope this is indicative of improved attention to consumer issues. If so, look for complaints to lower (there will always be some) and their BBB rating to move up.

(Added Oct 6/09) This is without a doubt the worst alarm company on the planet. I made a big mistake when I signed on with this company. I was promised the world and was sold on it because of all "the extras" I was getting. This started out bad from the beginning. Holes in the wrong place, an hour install ran into approx a four hour install. I called and tried to can(cel) the service and was informed to send the slip that came on one of the forms. This is just a way for them to keep you from can(celling) the service. This was sent out within the three day requirement but they indicated that they never received it. I have had this alarm for approx 5 months and have never even turned it on. I fought the charges against my credit card and received my money back. I just received five letters indicating I owe them money with interest. I am doing everything i can think of to let everyone know about this company. Sent email to over 10,000 on my email tree (mostly military), contacted an attorney, FTC and BBB. I will also have them on my website to inform people that visit of the bad business practices they have. I hope they go bankrupt.

(Added Oct 5/09) I just had my alarm installed today. I called and ordered the service, so no door to door stuff. Installation was fine, but took longer the expected. They told me the install would take about 3 hours, but it took 4. The rep on the phone was great, and the installer was nice too and did a professional job. No complaints so far.

(Added Sept 30/09) (Updated Jan 22/10) APX, to our dismay, has proven to be the worst business-related....(read the whole review)

(Added Sept 30/09) I read with some regret the review posted on 9/18/09 about the poor experience someone had with APX....(read the whole review)

(Added Sept 29/09) It was a hostile takeover. The sales rep shared information about the company....(read the whole review)

(Added Sept 18/09) I don't know who the rep is that keeps writing these "good" reviews for APX, but they need to find a job with an actual company, rather than a....(read the whole review)

(Added Sept 9/09) We had our alarm system installed in June, the rep came about 6pm and they started installation 1/2 hr later. The installation was not completed until 12:30 that night, but all in all it was well worth it. My husband goes away several times a year and I am disabled, this is the most secure I have felt in years. Everytime I have a question they answer me in a way that I can understand, and they are so understanding and polite. I would definitely recommend them to anyone!

(Added Sept 9/09) I would like to respond to one of the posts concerning the validity of the apx sales guy that came to my home....(read the whole review)

(Added Sept 1/09) (Updated Jan 22/10) Last week we had a visit from a pleasant young man, representing APX. I had no complaints about how he presented himself, although....(read the whole review)

(Added Sept 1/09) (Updated Jan 31/10) The girlfriend and I have just had the APX Alarm System (Honeywell) installed into our home. We were extremely satisfied with the work and information the installer had and knew. We, however did not have APX come knocking our door. We ordered it and they came to install. So we did not have the opportunity of them knocking on our door as other people are complaining about. All and all we are extremely satisfied with the company and their reps/service. We recommend this company to anyone. We have not had the opportunity of the alarm being set off to see what just happens and hope this day never comes. We have 2 Yorkshire puppies and a German Shepard puppy inside the house and love the fact someone is still looking out for the house when we are not here. We also are ONLY running on their cellular line as we do not have a lan line and this was cheaper in the long run and the monthly costs of monitoring. We have nothing negative to say about this company and feel bad for the people that have had a bad experience. Thank You.
Update:
APX Alarm has continued with there excellent service with the alarm and we have yet to have any problems.

(Added Aug 31/09) I am very pleased with APX. They did a good job of installing and explained everything throughly. I forgot the alarm was set and opened the front door. The alarm sounded immedieatly and the operator responded almost at once. I gave the code word and that was that. Operator was businesslike and courteous and didn't make me feel any worse than I already did. I would refer APX to anyone.

(Added Aug 31/09) Stay away from APX Alarm. They came door-to-door in my development also....(read the whole review)

(Added Aug 24/09) This is my experience with APX: The salesman came to our door around....(read the whole review)

(Added Aug 24/09) We had the alarm put in July 1, 2009 and have had 4 false alarms since, the 4th one half hour after the technician fixed the problem, ha ha. Called to get the system removed as I no longer trust using it, and was told I could because it has not worked since we got it and there would be no early termination fees. Now they will not honor their promise. The police are not happy with us, and I am afraid to use the system for fear of another false alarm. I would not recommend this company to anyone and will tell everyone I meet about the system.

(Added Aug 23/09) We were slammed into a 5 year contract which we were pressured to sign after being led to believe there was a one year term. Service is subpar - it is virtually impossible to get details from the company when an alarm has been triggered. Installers put ugly white boxes at the top of the doors instead of the bottom and couldn't remove them due to the adhesive. Company refused to let us out of the contract when we told them we weren't informed of the term. Two years later I have been diagnosed with MS and am faced with crippling medical bills. The company suggested I get a doctor to lie and say that I was physically unable to press the buttons or else pawn the contract off on someone else. I can't bring myself to ask doctors I rely on to lie for me or to push this junk off on another human being. This company is morally bankrupt.

(Added Aug 18/09) The pricing, installation, reps and everything else is awesome! My mother has this system, and we never had problems. I would recommend this company to friends and family members.

(Added Aug 18/09) Salesman was walking down the street going door to door around 7:00 pm. My spouse was the lucky one to answer the door....(read the whole review)

(Added Aug 13/09) On July 18th 2009 an APX traveling salesman came to our door pawning an alarm system....(read the whole review)

(Added Aug 13/09) Awesome company! Great service! I have been very satisfied with apx. The people that complain about the sales reps make me laugh. They did a phone call with me to make sure everything important was explained to me. EX: contract length, monthly bill, etc. It seemed like they have this thing down to be idiot proof. Apparently not. Or in other words you must be an idiot if you complain about the sales rep.

(Added Aug 5/09) I don't understand all of the negative comments. We've had our APX alarm for over a year now (switched from an ADT system) and haven't experienced any problems detailed in some of the messages on this board. After 3 years with ADT we made the switch to APX after they confirmed that they could set us up with a wireless system. We recently had a false alarm at 1am when I opened the front door after our alarm had been set, but the company promptly called us to ensure that everything was ok. I have no complaints with this alarm company and do recommend them to other customers.

(Added Aug 3/09) Everything was straight forward and explained by the Service Rep. Installed the same day and workings were throughly explained so that even I could understand it. Think that this will be a great addition to our home security and with a handicapped wife, the 2 way feature is most welcome.

(Added July 28/09) APX Alarm came with an offer for a free alarm system with no contract as they wanted to advertise in the region. There were a limited number they were doing (only on the road) so that another salesperson could come by at a later date. All we have to pay in the monthly amounts, but received a $700 alarm system free as long as we display their sign on our property. The salesmen (very early in the discussion) showed me his ID badge and Soliciting License (required in BC, Canada). Installation happened same day (at my convenience) and took around an hour. Free package included 3 doors, 1 motion sensor, 2 windows, a control panel, and 2 remote controls. 5 out of 5 stars.

(Added July 27/09) We had our APX Alarm installed after our previous alarm company said it would be over $3000 to replace our system which had ceased working . Our system was (is) fairly complex however with a small cost (less than $400) we had a comparable APX system installed , including multiple freeze and smoke detectors. The rep's and installers were professional at all times and the service works fine. Our monthly cost is the same as the old system so we a very much ahead with APX.

(Added July 27/09) The young man who knocked on our door was dressed neatly and offered his ID early into his self-introduction....(read the whole review)

(Added July 22/09) Great company! I love their service. People that complain about apx must not have any common sense. The phone call that took place before the system is installed goes over all the terms of the contract. What else did you need to know? Those that complain must not have been listening to the representative. They have been better than I expected.

(Added July 22/09) This system has given us problems since day one. The remotes only work when they feel like it. Tech Support told us to replace batteries. Still not functioning correctly. Overhead door to the shop is consantly going off line, causing continous beeping in the house. Was told I had to PAY for additional equipment. They will not allow me to cancel this and now I am stuck in a 3 year contract with a product that is not working properly. Salesman told me I could cancel anytime, did not explain the 3 day window. Would not have opted for this service if I could not cancel it especially if it is not working correctly. Do not recommend. Still disputing this and considering going to an attorney. Have not recieved a phone call back in 3 days and when I called on the 3rd day was conveniently told they are in conference about this. Conference my foot.

(Added July 17/09) Beware of this system! To make a long story short....(read the whole review)

(Added July 17/09) My APX Alarm experience has been amazing. The sales rep and the technician were both very professional. The rep was very persistant, not pushy, and basically educated me on the benifits of home security. The system itself is very simple to use and I couldn't feel more safe. And seriously, I can't understand how people can say they were scammed or mislead. APX makes it almost impossible not to understand the agreement with a "pre-install survey" where they make sure the rep is wearing his/her uniform and a badge, confirm all the prices and the length of the agreement, they clarify that APX is not affiliated with any other alarm companies, and also they asked if the rep had made any promises not written on the agreement. Which he didn't. APX ALARM is one of the best companies out there, but that's just my opinion.

(Added July 16/09) At first we thought the rep was very knowledgeable and courteous....but we didn't know that....(read the whole review)

(Added July 7/09) The Short Story is This APX System is Great But Please read ahead. The Salesman, let's call him....(read the whole review)

(Added July 2/09) My take on APX Alarm and their summer sales tactics....(read the whole review)

(Added June 24/09) We had the system installed for approximately 1 week, and the first time I accidently set off the alarm, I was expecting a call from the company to see if in fact it was a false alarm or not, but no one called my home or cell phone. Instead they called my emergency contact to tell them the police are on their way. The second time the alarm went off accidently, my husbands loud stereo set the alarm off. The company actually called, my husband and daughter said they had to wake me up to get the password, company would not wait and called the police. Well now we get a bill from our city for $40.00, $20.00 per incident. I could see paying for the 2nd incident, but not the first one. Besides not using common sense, the operators are rude and snippy.

(Added June 19/09) I have loved my APX service. I feel safer in my home with my kids and while my husband is away, or we all go away for a vacation I feel my house is protected. The salesperson was very nice and straightforward. They didn't pressure me about it at all or make me feel uncomfortable. They were very nice and I am grateful for their service and have been more than satisfied with it.

(Added June 10/09) The sales person assured us that our old system would be returned to normal if we did not like their service. Their service costs about twice as much as other services in my area, and when they installed the system, it ruined my old system in my home. The company conveniently was not able to put my old system back to normal after I had their system removed. Now I have to pay to have their mess fixed. Their sales people seem to say anything just to get a sale, and then after we find out the real truth.

(Added June 1/09) (Updated Oct 15/09) I'm suprised at all the comments saying that the saleperson lied because....(read the whole review)

(Added May 26/09) This is the worst corporate business I have ever done business with....(read the whole review)

(Added May 25/09) (Updated Oct 15/09) I received excellent sales and service from the APX representatives. The salesman was very professional as was the installer. I manage a large electrical Service Department business so I know the difference between good and bad service. I also know enough to always read a contract before signing to know what you are receiving. I am completely happy to date with APX.
Update:
They, APX, have maintained their high level of service.

(Added May 24/09) I had APX installed in my old house and the salesmen was very honest about everything. The tech that installed my system did a good job and cleaned his mess after he was finished. I have recently moved and they came out on a saturday and installed all new equipment for $99.00. I left my system when I sold my house. My baby has accidently set the alarm off with the remote and apx called within seconds. I love this alarm system and have never had any problems, but if I ever do I'll let you know.

(Added May 24/09) It seems to me that most complaints on here are about salesmen, not the company. I have had the alarm for a couple years now, and my experience has been awesome. I had ADT in the past, and had no real issues besides difficult customer service. At APX, the customer service is amazing, I can get a hold of a real person immediately, without waiting on hold for 20 minutes. I had a door sensor stop working, they replaced it the same day I called them. I have had nothing but good experiences with APX, and I would recommend it to anybody. They are fantastic.

(Added May 15/09) My system was installed 2hrs after they knocked on my door asking me if they can put up their sign for promotion. APX should get trained people to install alarm systems. They installed surface contacts on my back windows, w/c is impossible to open when closed; installed glass break detectors in the front where no burglar will attempt to break the window because it's a busy street. No motion sensors to detect any activities inside the house. Smoke detectors installed on low ceiling because the tech said he cannot reach the higher ceiling where the smoke will surely go in case of fire. Then after, the tech asked me if I want him to do a clean up so I said 'yes', but he left me all the mess. He just asked me the clean-up thing so I can say yes on their survey if the tech offered a clean-up. I cancelled my system and they uninstalled it after 1 week, didn't cause me anything other than holes in my walls that I have to repair.

(Added May 15/09) Apx has been amazing. Whenever I have had a problem they have been out here within 48 hrs to fix it it and the guy that came to my door outlined everything and was completely honest. He explained the contract to me and told me that they would be paying for the system and that we only had to cover the monitoring like everyone else does with their companies. They are an A+ in my book.

(Added May 13/09) Bought system from Apex, alarm install went o.k. Apex sold my Monitoring to SAI, SAI took 45 minutes to report an alarm to police. "False Alarm," motion sensor batteries went dead. Then constant beeping from unit, no one had a clue! One tech support guy told me the alarm noticed the batteries in my key fob was low. Changed batteries in key fob, no joy. I took the wall unit apart myself and replaced the 4 AA batteries in the unit, that fixed it. SAI had three phone numbers to contact me at when credit card expired, they sent a letter to the wrong address. When I contacyed them about the false alarm they told me my account had been sent to collections. I have submitted a check to Anderson, Crenshaw in the amount of $477 just to get out of this mess.

(Added May 12/09) Stay away from these guys. If you don't believe the many negative posts, (and I believe most are true) here is what I suggest....(read the whole review)

(Added April 28/09) I, too, was contacted at night (6pm). A nice man talked to me about his alarm system....(read the whole review)

(Added April 24/09) (Updated By Admin June 1/09) Update: APX Alarm no longer uses SAI for monitoring. APX now has their own monitoring stations which recently won the JD Power and Associates award for quality and customer service. *Note from admin: APX does NOT have its own monitoring center. If you sign up for their service, you will most likely be monitored by Monitronics. APX did, however, win the JD Powers award for customer service in Aug, 2008. Details here: http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?id=2008107

(Added April 1/09) This is the best alarm system and service I have had. All employees of the company including the salesman were up-front and honest about the agreement and system. I have enjoyed the quick and friendly customer support team and hope that others will read this review. People usually only comment or post about bad experiences I would like them to get credit for doing things right.

(Added Mar 31/09) (Updated June 26/09) Like many other people I was deceived and outright lied to by the APX salesman....(read the whole review)

(Added Mar 12/09) By far, the worst experience we've ever had with a company....(read the whole review)

(Added Mar 9/09) Just like all the other folks on this website I was taken in by the salesman. He gave us the pitch and....(read the whole review)

(Added Mar 6/09) APX alarm is amazing. Not only did my sales representative talk me through the....(read the whole review)

(Added Feb 17/09) One late Sunday evening a salesman came to my door telling us about this alarm system that he would install free and that he would give us the system free. We were asked to keep the neon sign in front of the house for advertisment and to contact the company if the light in the display goes out. He also told us that we would not have to pay for the system because of the advertisement in the yard and that if we had any questions that we could call him. After weeks later my husband and I tried to contact him but the number he had given us had been disconnected. Now the company has over drown my account twice. And they say that the contract is for five years and not two.

(Added Feb 12/09) I have had my alarm for about 8 months and I have nothing but good things to say about APX Alarm. The sales rep. explained a lot and answered all my questions. When I recently changed phone providers, I called APX and they came and added some type of cell unit to my alarm very promptly. I would recommend APX to anyone, they have been better than other companies that I have used.

(Added Feb 11/09) They will not fix any broken or malfunctioning equipment. They make promises to send out their "best" tech, only it seems they don't have one. We are in the process of taking this company to court. They need to be shut down, now!

(Added Jan 26/09) I am married but husband recently arrested and in county jail awaiting trial. I have been without his income for several months....(read the whole review)