Parks Associates reports self-installation of newly acquired security systems reached 55 percent in Q2 2020, up from 40 percent in 2018, an increase of nearly 40 percent. The firm’s latest whitepaper, “Home Security: A Redefined Market,” finds the rise of interactive services and DIY installation are two key trends defining the home security market, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, lower prices and new smart home solutions.

“The installation method for newly acquired security systems and smart home devices has trended towards self-installation for several years, and COVID-19 has hastened that transition,” said Amanda Kung, researcher, Parks Associates. “About one-third of security system owners and intenders report COVID-19 concerns caused them to avoid professional installers due to the discomfort of having a stranger in the home.”