Will My Monitoring Company Change My Installer Code?

Your alarm company might change your installer code. Some alarm companies change installer codes as a way of limiting what end-users can do at the panel. This way, a user will need to contact the alarm company and pay for their services if they want to make changes to their security system.

That being said, not all companies will change the installer code. Most no-contract companies do not change the code. If a user is working with a DIY company, it is also extremely unlikely for the company to change the installer code. This is because a DIY company will rely on the user to do programming at the panel, and changing the installer code would cause inconveniences for both the company and the end user.

If a user is with a company that has them under contract, then it makes more sense for the company to change the installer code. When the end-user does not know the installer code, they will then have to rely on the alarm company for any type of support, or system changes. This usually involves the company sending out a service technician to the site and charging the end-user for the call.

Some security panels have a "backdoor" method for entering programming if the installer code is not known by the user. Most Honeywell security systems have such a backdoor method. A company that has changed the installer code will usually not tell the user about this method. When a user works with a DIY company, the company will generally help the user change any code.

The video below will show you how to use the backdoor method to enter programming on a Honeywell Vista panel:

If you want to maintain full control of your alarm system, you're better off purchasing the system outright, and working with a DIY company, such as Alarm Grid for monitoring. This way, you determine what features and programming options to enable or disable. You set the Installer Code, and you can make changes and adjustments at your leisure, without having to pay for an expensive service call.