Vivint Monthly Fee: How Much You Really Pay Every Month
Thinking about signing up for Vivint? Before you click ‘accept’, you need to know the real monthly cost. Vivint isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all service – the price you see on the website often skips the extras that show up on your bill. In this guide we break down the base fee, the optional add‑ons, and the contract terms that can change what you actually pay.
Base Price – What Vivint Lists First
The advertised starting price for Vivint’s standard alarm system is usually around £30‑£35 per month. That number covers the core monitoring service, basic door/window sensors, and access to the Vivint app. It does not include professional installation, equipment upgrades, or any premium features like video doorbells or advanced cameras. If you only need a simple alarm, that base fee might be all you’ll pay.
Extra Features That Can Raise the Bill
Most homeowners end up adding at least one extra service. Here’s what usually bumps the monthly total:
- Video Surveillance: Adding indoor or outdoor cameras typically adds £5‑£10 per camera each month.
- Smart Doorbell: Vivint’s video doorbell costs about £8‑£12 extra per month, plus a possible hardware fee.
- Automation Packs: Smart locks, lights, and thermostats are billed separately, often £4‑£7 per device.
- Professional Monitoring Upgrade: Some users upgrade from basic to advanced monitoring for an extra £5‑£8.
All these add‑ons stack, so a fully equipped Vivint home can easily top £80 a month. The key is to list the devices you actually want and ask the rep for a clear, itemised quote.
Another hidden cost is the equipment rental fee. Vivint often includes the hardware in the monthly price, but if you choose to own the gear upfront, you’ll see a lower monthly fee. Decide early whether you prefer to rent (higher ongoing cost, no upfront spend) or buy (larger one‑time payment, lower monthly charge).
Contracts matter, too. Vivint typically requires a 36‑month commitment with an early‑termination fee of around £300. Some promotions waive the fee if you stay past the contract, but breaking it early can add a big surprise to your final bill.If you’re not ready for a long term, ask about month‑to‑month options. They exist, but they usually come with a higher base rate—think £40‑£45 instead of £30‑£35.
To keep costs under control, audit your monthly statement. Look for duplicate line items, unexpected data‑plan charges for cameras, or fees for “cloud storage” that you never activated. Many users report that a quick call to customer service can remove unnecessary fees.
Bottom line: the Vivint monthly fee starts low, but it can climb quickly with add‑ons, rental equipment, and contract terms. Write down the exact devices you need, choose whether to rent or buy, and ask for a written breakdown before you sign. That way you know exactly what you’ll be paying each month and avoid surprise charges down the road.