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Correction:  Yesterday's link for MongoTel didn't work.  Here is the link for the VoIP MongoTel Dealer Program: pbxrmr.com or call Chaim at 718-942-9990 x 217
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COMMENT ON SimpliSafe
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Ken,

    We believe that SIMPLISAFE operates without the licenses required in many jurisdictions, including California, by contracting with end-users for alarm monitoring services including police-dispatch, for which a California Alarm Company Operator (ACO) license is required. Further, SIMPLISAFE is not qualified to do any business in California, by virtue of not registering with the Secretary of State.  And they are aided in doing so by a central station which is ACO licensed in California, and which performs these services for unlicensed SIMPLISAFE.  I think a central station should monitor only licensed alarm companies and does a disservice to the industry when it aids unlicensed alarm companies.
    SIMPLISAFE may also still have a few subscribers monitored by a former central station from prior to 2014, but most subscribers are believed to be monitored now by one of the national monitoring companies now.
    This is not a 'snafu'...   The SIMPLISAFE website does not include their license information, and their online forum asks that subscribers telephone SIMPLISAFE for license information on a case-by-case basis... giving me reason to believe they are well aware of, but seek to conceal, their license problems.
    When I contacted SIMPLISAFE about this their representative informed me that SIMPLISAFE was indeed licensed in California, and proceeded to give me the central station's California license number instead.
    We further believe that many other DIY vendors also operate without a proper license, claiming to be licensed, but rather it is a third party monitoring station which is licensed.
    Perhaps your readers, in other states, can share their thoughts and experiences dealing with unlicensed alarm companies, and the contract monitoring stations aiding them.
    And, Ken, can you opine the risks that a company, such as SIMPLISAFE and/or central stations and their Qualified Managers, run by performing such activities?
Thank you,
Nick Lawrence
RED ALARM
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RESPONSE
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       Alarm companies that contract for monitoring services are required to have their own alarm license in jurisdictions that require a license for monitoring.  If alarm companies are engaging in installation, they will need an alarm license in additional jurisdictions.  These alarm companies cannot use the central station's alarm license.
      Central stations should be licensed in jurisdictions that require an alarm license for monitoring.
      If you need a license qualifier, or want to qualify for a company as the license holder, see The Alarm Exchange, specifically the category License Holders and those looking for Qualifers.
       Failing to be license when required does not create absolute liability for negligence, but can be used against you and you will have to establish that you have the necessary skill that a license would suggest.  Of course you are subject to civil and criminal prosecution by licensing agencies.  Also, at least for consumer subscribers, you won't be able to enforce your contract if not licensed.
       The prudent advice, get licensed where required.  Our Licensing Department can help.  Contact Jesse Kirschenbaum,Esq at 516 747 6700 x 317 or Jesse@KirschenbaumEsq.com, or contact me directly.
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FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN GETTING NEW YORK ALARM INSTALLER LICENSE
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New York State APPROVED 81-Hour Alarm License Course. OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2016
Start: October 29, 2016  8:00 AM and End November 20, 2016 6:00 PM
Location:  New York City / Long Island
Registration
New York State APPROVED 81-Hour Alarm License Course. OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2016. – $200.00 (USD)
A DEPOSIT OF $200.00 IS REQUIRED AT THIS TIME TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT. WE WILL SEND YOU ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND EXACT CLASS LOCATION AFTER WE RECEIVE YOUR $200.00 DEPOSIT. BALANCE OF $1,350.00 IS DUE BY FIRST DAY OF CLASS. YOU CAN PAY THE BALANCE ON LINE AT ANY TIME PRIOR TO THE START OF THE CLASS.  IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL 718-894-6712.  Metropolitan Burglar and Fire Alarm Association of New York, Inc