Is ADT equipment leased or owned?

Author: Prof. Donny Ratke MD  |  Last update: Monday, July 28, 2025

ADT's professionally installed equipment is leased from ADT. However, if you opt for Blue by ADT, you can purchase the equipment outright.

Is ADT equipment leased?

You can pay a monthly fee to lease the equipment for a certain time frame, or opt to purchase the equipment upfront. Equipment costs will vary depending on your specific needs, home size, and desired level of security.

Do you own ADT equipment after contract?

Actually, one of the lines in the contracts plainly states ADT retains ownership of the equipment. If you cancel or move, even if the equipment is paid off, ADT still retains ownership of the equilment.

Do you get to keep ADT equipment?

You keep the equipment(ADT corporate likely holds the contract now) when it ends and wish to keep monitoring it goes month to month. Hope that helps!

What happens to ADT equipment when you move?

Relocate your self installed

Move your existing ADT security system to your new home. If you've moved into a home with an ADT system that's still working, we can reactivate it for you - just give us a call.

Do I own my ADT equipment?

Can ADT be transferred to a new owner?

If you know that the person moving into your current home would like to keep the existing system, you can also discuss transferring the system to them. This moving checklist and selection of frequently asked questions will help make the process of getting connected and protected in your new place easier.

Can I use my ADT equipment without service?

Does ADT equipment work if I cancel the service? You must have an active monitoring subscription with ADT to use the equipment that it provides. Otherwise, you miss out on most of the functionality.

Do I own my ADT alarm system?

You own the security equipment, even after you end your contract. If you cancel a plan, your home security system will still work, and you will still receive Blue by ADT app alerts and notifications, though you won't have the benefit of professional monitoring.

What do I do with my old ADT equipment?

Send you an email from ADT Security Services that provides you with a list of required equipment to be shipped back to ADT.
  1. All equipment, when possible, should be returned using the original box and packaging provided. ...
  2. To avoid any Non-Return Fees*, please review the email listing all return-required equipment.

Do you have to return equipment if you cancel an ADT?

ADT Money-Back Guarantee:

Equipment must be returned before a refund will be processed.

Can I use my ADT equipment with another company?

It's important to understand that you can switch home security companies. In most cases, ADT equipment can be used by other alarm companies, including Security Alarm. Let us help you save money by utilizing as much of your existing equipment as possible!

How do I get out of a 5 year ADT contract?

ADT cancellation requires a customer service phone call to 800-238-2727. During the call, the customer service agent gives you instructions and may ask you to submit a written request. This call is the best time to ask if you're eligible for a refund or a break on the 75% termination fee.

What do I do with myadt equipment after I cancel?

Typically, they'll simply leave the equipment on the house, and you (or a new owner, if you sell) can re-activate service at any time. If you have existing, previously-installed equipment at your house when you start your ADT contract, that equipment is, and will remain to be, your property.

Is it hard to cancel an ADT?

You can opt-out of your ADT contract within three days or 72 hours from when you signed the contract without paying any penalty. You can call the ADT helpline anytime within 72 hours, and their team will cancel your contract.

Is ADT equipment proprietary?

Proprietary alarm equipment is sold, serviced and monitored through a program of exclusive dealers. Examples of proprietary equipment include ADT and DMP.

Do you have to pay for ADT equipment?

Monitoring monthly is usually tied to a 36-month contract. With equipment and installation, however, you have the option of paying upfront or financing. This can be combined with your monthly monitoring for one easy payment. The installation fee on most packages is around $150.

Does ADT charge to replace equipment?

LIMITED EQUIPMENT WARRANTY.

During the first 90 days following the order date, ADT will repair or, at its option, refund or replace any defective equipment purchased from ADT at no charge to me using new or refurbished parts of similar features and functionality.

What do I do with an old hardwired security system?

In a practical sense, a person can easily use the most modern security devices with their old coaxial wiring. Whereas the more aged the wiring is, the less capable it will be to produce quality, they are still usable when switching to the newest security DVR.

Does ADT have senior discounts?

We think ADT is the best solution for seniors with its simple control panel and professional monitoring service. ADT even gives AARP members a discount up to 20-percent.

Does ADT equipment work without service?

Can I use ADT equipment without Monitoring? Yes, You can use ADT equipment without monitoring. The system will still sound the siren even if you are not paying for the service.

Can I just unplug my ADT system?

Your panel has 2 sources of power: The AC power (where it is plugged into an outlet) and the System backup battery. To fully power down your panel you must disconnect both of these. (Note: Powering down your panel should only be done if it is the last resort.

Does ADT charge for service calls?

An On-Site Assessment Charge is the fee ADT charges for an in-person service call. The amount is typically $59.99 per visit.

Does ADT upgrade equipment for free?

You will receive free upgrades and get additional discounts on equipment upgrades with a new three year monitoring agreement. Once you begin enjoying your upgraded ADT monitoring service, you'll wonder why you waited so long.

Can you negotiate your ADT bill?

Negotiate with ADT

Ask them what they can do at the company to help you lower your monthly bill. You might be surprised to find that these representatives can offer discounts and promotions that might not be available to existing customers or that might not be listed to the public.

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