Moving into a new place involves all kinds of stressors: packing, transporting your belongings, setting up utilities at your new home, clearing out your old home, and lots more. You certainly don’t need the added stress of figuring out what to do about home security. If you’re an ADT customer, here’s how to go about transitioning from your old home to your new one. Or, if you’ve just moved somewhere that has ADT equipment, here’s how to get it set up.
ADT Home Security Equipment
ADT Customers Who Are Moving
If you're a current ADT customer who’s moving, call ADT right away (at least 30 days before your move date, if possible) to find out what they can do to protect you in your new home. They always have special deals for movers, and they’ll want to do what they can to retain your business.
Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to check the reviews for your local ADT authorized dealer before signing a new contract. That local dealer will be the one managing your ADT experience from installation to ongoing customer service, so you’ll want to have confidence in them as a long-term partner.
As for your contract, you’ll likely have to cancel it and sign a fresh one at your new address. That’s because contracts are specific to the location where the alarm system is installed. ADT will set you up with a new contract at your new place. They’ll walk you through the whole process and discuss any options.
When it comes to the security equipment at your current house (cameras, sensors, and the like), you’ll generally leave that stuff behind. If you want service at your new home, ADT will install fresh equipment there, based on exactly what you need for the current layout, but don't worry about the cost because ADT often has deals for movers who choose to stay with ADT.
ADT Indoor Camera (left) and Outdoor Camera (right)
Setting Up ADT at Your New Home
If the place you’re moving into already has ADT equipment installed, you can work with ADT to activate service using the existing equipment and anything new you want to add. This could mean a nice savings in up-front costs — especially since you’ll be getting equipment made by top manufacturers like GE and Honeywell.
Did You Know? In some cases, ADT can set you up for service using equipment you already own from another security company. So if the place you just moved into is equipped with a security system of any kind, just call ADT to see if they can work with it.
Why choose ADT? Whether there’s already ADT equipment at your place or not, ADT is definitely worth considering for your new home. The company has a stellar reputation, competitive rates and great equipment. Plus, ADT's professional equipment installation takes the stress of having to set up a security system on your own off of your shoulders. We rank them high on our list of the top home security systems of 2024. That means we believe they’re a top-notch choice.
That said, they’re not for everyone. They do require long-term contracts and professional installation, so they’re typically a better choice for those who plan to stay put for a few years. And the basic package doesn’t offer smartphone controls via the app, so if that’s important to you, you’ll need to choose a higher-tier package or a different security company.
ADT’s advanced packages, however, have it all — app controls, 24/7 monitoring, home automation, and video recording. These higher-tier plans are where ADT really shines, and they’re well worth it for those who are willing to pay a little more for a premium system, customer service, and professional monitoring.
FYI: ADT integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant so you can easily control your security system with your voice. And because ADT runs on the Z-Wave platform, it’s compatible with hundreds of smart products, like lights, speakers, and more — meaning you can connect all your smart devices and control them with the ADT app.
ADT Moving FAQs
- Can I bring my ADT security equipment with me from my old home to my new one?
That depends on the conditions of your contract, but generally you won’t take your equipment with you. Instead, ADT will install new equipment at your new place based on the specific needs of that space. (Professional installation is required with ADT.) Talk to an ADT advisor to discuss your options.
- How far in advance does ADT need to know about my move?
The more notice you can give them, the better. At a minimum, try to reach out 30 days before your move date.
- Will I have to cancel my existing contract when I move?
In most cases, yes. ADT contracts are tied to individual locations, so they usually can’t be transferred. Instead, you’ll set up a new contract at the new place. However, you should confirm what can and can’t be done with your specific contract by calling ADT. Every case is unique.
- The place I moved to has ADT equipment installed. How do I use it?
Just call ADT to choose the plan that works best for you, and to have the equipment inspected and activated. You can also have extra equipment installed to customize the system just the way you want it.
- If I don’t want ADT at my new place, can I just cancel my service online?
No, there is no way to cancel your ADT service without calling to speak to an ADT representative. This is a bit different from how it works with some of the newer security system providers, but it’s in line with ADT’s more traditional approach to customer service. They emphasize human interaction, via phone or in-person. That includes the installation process all the way through to the cancellation process.
- I just moved into a new home and need a security system. Should I get ADT?
You should definitely consider ADT, but the final decision will depend on your specific needs. If you’re looking for a basic system with DIY installation and no contract requirements, then ADT is not for you. (You might want to check out Ring, SimpliSafe, or abode.) But ADT really shines on their higher-tier plans, which offer home automation and video. We break the whole ADT experience down in our ADT-monitored home security review.
