Reimbursement for Home Security Systems in Chicago: Everything You Need to Know
Mar 08, 2023|
When you live in a major metro area like Chicago, home security gives you valuable peace of mind. City officials appreciate this, which is why they have established a program designed to make safeguarding your property more affordable.
Thanks to a city government initiative known as the Home and Business Protection Program, you could get a reimbursement for your home security system in Chicago. To find out if a home security system is right for you and learn how to take full advantage of the rebate, take a look at the major points to consider when having security and smart home devices installed in your home.
The maximum rebate on offer
It is important to gauge how big the incentive for installing a security system in Chicago can be. The mayor of Chicago announced that Chicago residents are eligible for a rebate of up to $1,020 back on security equipment that was purchased on or after June 6, 2022. The goal of the Home and Business Protection Program (HBPP) is to deter crime as much as possible.
Who can take advantage of the rebate?
The Home and Business Protection Program covers private homes, small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and religious centers. Renters may also receive permission from the property owner to install a security system at the incentivized rate.
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Additional applicant requirements to consider
In order to qualify for the program, you must own a home, business, religious center, or nonprofit organization within Chicago. If you’re a renter, you must own or lease at least one vehicle in the city of Chicago. Make sure you register your vehicle to your primary address within the city limits to ensure eligibility for the Home and Business Protection Program.
You must also provide proof of purchase for any security equipment you wish to receive reimbursement for. Standard proof such as receipts or bank transaction history statements may satisfy this requirement.
Finally, you must take pictures to confirm your equipment was installed at the address in question. While satisfying these three requirements should make you eligible for cash back, it’s important to review the HBPP application to make sure you meet all the criteria.
Reimbursement will be limited to one application per device per household. The program is first-come, first-served. It will run through December 31, 2024, or until funds are depleted, whichever comes first.
While the maximum total rebate is $1,020, the amount you receive will vary depending on a variety of factors, including how much equipment you have installed. Here is a rundown of what you may be eligible for.
Up to $225 on each of two cameras, for a total of $450
A year's worth of cloud storage valued at $150
Up to $100 for each light, up to a maximum of two light fixtures
Two GPS trackers valued at up to $100 total
A yearlong subscription to a GPS service valued up to $120
It is worth noting that the calculation for each individual camera or light is based on the price plus tax on the item itself. The Chicago resident must cover any installation fees and extended warranties.
When is the money reimbursed?
If you qualify, it is likely that you will receive your payment within 90 days after you submit your application. As each application is reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, it is beneficial to apply as soon as possible before more applications are submitted by other residents.
What is the best way to apply for Chicago security camera reimbursement?
To get reimbursed for your security equipment, you must have proof you purchased it on or after June 6, 2022. This cutoff date is designed to reduce the number of applications flooding into the Home and Business Protection Program.
Can the police access your private cameras?
Typically, the resident is the only one with access to a direct video feed of a home security system. However, Chicago residents can opt into a registration program that allows the police to check in on any reported disturbances. Note that law enforcers must request access before getting to see anything in your home. This means you can deny or revoke viewing privileges at any time.
A chance for free equipment
In addition to the rebate program, the city of Chicago will coordinate with community-based organizations to provide free private security equipment to selected individuals in 15 select areas experiencing heightened levels of violent crime.
More information on eligibility for the free equipment will be available after the organizations and schedule of distribution events have been confirmed. The city has listed the following areas in consideration for this extra help:
With the Home and Business Protection Program available, there's no time like the present to purchase security equipment for your home. This security system guide can help you research the home security equipment available in Illinois to help you get started.
Before making any purchases, work with a Smart Home Pro who can customize a home security system for your home. These professionals can help you determine how to cover as many blind spots as possible with just a few cameras. If you have a larger home, you may need more than two cameras to cover all your bases.
Protect your home with Vivint
The rebate from the Home and Business Protection Program can help you protect your home and family with a home security system. Vivint offers home security and smart home devices, such as Smart Locks, window sensors, and automated garage door controllers that can keep your family safe.
With the Vivint app, you can control all your security devices from anywhere. You can even add smart thermostat functionality to control the temperature of your building. If you would like help getting started, contact Vivint today at 855.822.1220.
The rebate from the Home and Business Protection Program can help you protect your home and family with a home security system. However, since Vivint is not associated or involved with any city or state reimbursement programs, you’ll need to work directly with the City of Chicago when the time comes to request your rebate.
Get a free quote today.
A Vivint Smart Home Pro will contact you within 24 hours. Or skip the form and call now: 844.481.8630.
Qualifying system purchase requires minimum $599.99 expenditure on equipment after all discounts have been applied, professional installation, and execution of Vivint monitoring services agreement. Click here for monthly service plan prices. DIY system purchases and reactivations of previously-installed systems not eligible for offer. Offer not available in all states or provinces. Equipment purchase may be financed separately subject to an agreement with one of Vivint's third-party financing partners. Monthly $1.48 cellular network maintenance fee applies. Taxes and local permit fees may apply.
Third-Party Financing Options Available
Financing eligibility and terms subject to credit approval by one of Vivint's third-party financing partners. Qualified customers may finance equipment purchase at 0% APR for up to 60 months. Month-to-month service agreement available when equipment is purchased upfront.
Vivint Systems & Services
System supports up to six cameras subject to sufficient WiFi speeds. Without a Vivint services plan, product and system functionality is limited (including loss of remote connectivity). Speak to a Vivint representative at the phone number in this offer for complete equipment, services, and package details, including pricing and financing details. Products and services in Louisiana provided by Vivint Louisiana Commercial Certificate #58280. See Vivint license numbers here.
