If you’re thinking about ditching ADT, you’re not alone. Many homeowners find the monthly bills and long contracts frustrating. The good news? You can walk away without getting stuck in a maze of fees – if you follow a few straightforward steps.
Grab the paper you signed or log into your ADT account online. Look for the sections titled “Term”, “Early Termination Fee”, and “Equipment Return”. Most ADT plans lock you in for 36 months, but they usually allow you to cancel after a 30‑day trial. If you’re still in that window, you can cancel for free – just call the sales line and ask for a cancellation confirmation.
After the trial, the contract will list a per‑month early termination charge. It’s often the remaining months multiplied by a small fee (around $5‑$15 per month). Write that number down so you know what you’re up against.
ADT requires written notice, usually 30 days before you want the service stopped. Send an email or a mailed letter that includes your account number, your intent to cancel, and the date you want the service terminated. Keep a copy of the email or the receipt from the post office – it’s your proof if ADT tries to charge you later.
While you’re waiting for the notice period to end, you can still use the system. That means you’re still paying the monthly fee, but you also have a fully functional alarm until it’s officially turned off.
Once ADT confirms the cancellation, they’ll tell you how to send back the keypad, motion sensors, cameras, and any other gear. Pack everything in a sturdy box, include the return label if they gave you one, and drop it at the post office. If you don’t return the equipment, ADT will charge you a replacement fee – often $150‑$200 per item.
Take photos of the packed box before you ship it. If the package gets lost, you’ll have evidence that you sent it.
Besides the early termination charge, watch out for these extra costs:
Ask the rep to give you a final balance in writing before you sign off.
Now that you’re out of the ADT contract, you have plenty of options. Local alarm companies often have no‑contract plans that let you pay month‑to‑month. DIY kits like Ring, SimpliSafe, or Nest let you install the system yourself and keep control of the monitoring.
When you compare, look at three things: monthly cost, upfront equipment cost, and how quickly the company will respond to an alarm. Read a few recent reviews – real users share the most useful info.
Finally, if you’re moving or selling your home, a short‑term contract can be a selling point. Buyers appreciate a ready‑made security system that doesn’t lock them in.
Breaking an ADT contract feels scary, but it’s just paperwork and a few phone calls. Follow the steps above, keep records, and you’ll walk away with your money back and a clear path to a system that fits your needs better.
Breaking a contract with ADT involves understanding the terms, potential fees, and exploring alternative solutions. Whether you're moving, upgrading, or changing security providers, it's crucial to know your options. Learn about ADT's cancellation policy, how to approach negotiations, and explore cost-effective alternatives. This guide provides insights to help you make an informed decision regarding your home security needs.
