Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Security Solutions for Homes & Businesses
Custom Alarm has been a trusted security leader since 1968, providing tailored solutions for residential and commercial clients in Rochester, MN. Our locally owned and operated business combines cutting-edge technology with personalized service, offering fire alarm systems, intrusion detection, video surveillance, and access control. With over 65 dedicated employees, we prioritize community impact through customized security strategies and a satisfaction guarantee.Recognized as a Top 100 Security Company by SDM and a nine-time Best Place to Work in Southeastern Minnesota, our expertise spans decades of innovation. We maintain ISO-like quality standards through partnerships with industry leaders like Notifier and SDM, ensuring reliable protection. Our commitment to privacy and ethical practices reinforces our position as a community-focused, award-winning provider dedicated to customer peace of mind.
Services
Residential Security
Home Automation
Video Surveillance
Life Safety Systems
Access Control
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- Custom-designed security systems tailored to specific needs
- Prompt local sales, installation, and service in Rochester, MN
- Award-winning company with 50+ years of industry experience
- Community-focused approach with local ownership and operations
- Comprehensive solutions covering fire, intrusion, and life safety
Associations and certifications
- SDM Top 100 Security Companies
- Notifier North Star Award
- Security Sales and Integration Dealer of the Year
What people say
Courteous technicians
Prompt service
Thorough explanations
Professional team
Peace of mind
Services
Residential Security
Custom Alarm provides tailored residential security systems featuring touchscreen keypads, door/window sensors, and 24/7 monitoring. Our wireless technology eliminates phone line requirements while offering remote control via mobile apps. Systems include burglary protection, life safety monitoring, and video surveillance integration for comprehensive home protection in Rochester, MN.
Home Automation
Our home automation solutions enable centralized control of security, lighting, thermostats, and garage doors through a single platform. Z-Wave technology allows remote access without compromising WiFi performance. Features include scheduled automation, real-time notifications, and integration with existing security systems to enhance convenience and energy efficiency for Minnesota homeowners.
Video Surveillance
Custom Alarm offers wired and wireless IP camera systems with night vision capabilities up to 100 feet. Solutions include doorbell cameras, outdoor surveillance, and remote viewing through encrypted mobile apps. Our systems provide motion-activated recording with optional cloud storage, helping protect properties while offering real-time alerts for enhanced security in residential and commercial settings.
Access Control
We implement scalable access control systems using key fobs, smart cards, and mobile credentials. Our solutions track employee access, manage multiple facilities, and enable remote door control through web-based platforms. Features include scheduled access, lockdown protocols, and integration with existing security systems to protect commercial properties across Southeastern Minnesota.
Life Safety Systems
Our life safety solutions combine monitored smoke detectors, carbon monoxide sensors, and water leak detection systems. These 24/7 monitored devices automatically alert emergency services during power outages thanks to battery backups. Commercial systems integrate with fire alarm infrastructure while residential packages include temperature monitoring for seasonal properties, providing comprehensive protection against environmental hazards.
People
Melissa Brinkman
CEO
Melissa Brinkman leads Custom Alarm with 25+ years of industry experience, progressing from marketing roles to CEO in 2014. Daughter of founder Leigh Johnson, she maintains family values while driving technological innovation and customer-centric service excellence in Minnesota's security market.
Craig Muenkel
Vice President of Operations
Craig Muenkel oversees daily operations with focus on service delivery standards, ensuring prompt local response times for installations and emergency security needs across Custom Alarm's service areas.
Questions
Do you offer wireless security systems for existing homes?
Yes, we provide wireless security systems compatible with existing homes using cellular and Wi-Fi communication protocols.
Can I receive insurance discounts with your security systems?
Most homeowners qualify for insurance discounts with monitored systems, including additional benefits for cellular monitoring and water protection features.
How does system testing work?
Our technicians guide you through system testing during business hours, verifying all sensors and communication pathways to ensure proper functionality.
What happens during power outages?
All systems include battery backup maintaining operation for 1-10 hours while retaining monitoring capabilities.
Do you provide commercial security solutions?
We offer comprehensive commercial security including access control, video surveillance, and integrated fire alarm systems for businesses of all sizes.
Can I control my system remotely?
Our mobile app enables remote arming/disarming, camera viewing, and smart home device control from anywhere with internet access.
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