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SAME SUB BUT ANOTHER JOB
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Ken,
    One of our subscribers has two buildings on his property and retained us to install a burg alarm system and cameras in one of the buildings but then wanted us to to install a separate security system in the second building.  We use the Commercial All-in-One and are wondering how we can modify the current Commercial All-In-One Agreement we have in place with this subscriber to deal with this situation?

MI
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RESPONSE
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    The second building is a new job and the best advice is to use another Commercial All in One.  If you want to tie the two together you may be able to add the RMR charges from the first agreement to the second, or you may want to reference the first in the second to deem it updated to run concurrently with the second; a new 5 or 10 year term.  If all this is too confusing then just do a new contract for the second job and keep them independent.
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DIFFERENT CONTRACTS NEEDED FOR DIFFERENT STATES
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Ken, 
    We purchased the Residential All in One and the Commercial All in One for our primary office in PA.  We now have an office in Virginia, other than the license number requirement on the contracts, do you see any reason for us to purchase something specific for VA?

 

Christine
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RESPONSE
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    Well I can just see the smile on so many faces thinking they know what I'm thinking.  That would be I can "see a reason" --- so I can sell another contract....    But that's not really the reason you were thinking about.  
    Generally you can use the Commercial All in One in different states.  There may be some differences in forms but other than the license identification the differences may not be enough to warrant a separate form for that state.  If you do significant business in the different states [different than your home state] then you should invest in the Commercial All in One for that state.  Checking with our Contract Administrator Eileen Wagda at (516) 747- 670 x 312 will get you a definitive answer on how many differences there are in the states you're considering.
    The Residential All in One is usually different state to state.  If nothing else the 3 day cancellation notice required by the state statute will read differently.  Consumer information regarding the licensing agency or filing consumer complaints may be required.  In some states there are specific requirements for the indemnity clause and arbitration clause.  Some states require the subscriber to initial directly underneath certain protective provisions in the contract that limit your liability or that affect the subscriber's legal rights [i.e. limitation of liability/arbitration provision].  

    Best practice would be to use a state specific Residential All in One for each state.  Our Contract Administrator can advise you if you can get away with a single form for more than one state; some are close enough.  Keep in mind that when you purchase a Residential All in One the second [or more] state form is half price.  Same half price applies if you get the Sale and the Lease form for the same contract.  [the 3 All in Ones are residential, commercial and commercial fire].  The Home Automation and Integration Agreement comes in Sale format only and the Commercial Fire with Security Rider also comes only in Sale format.
    If you're not using the proper forms then don't delay.  Your contracts are the most important part of your business.  
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NEW JERSEY TAX QUESTIONS
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Ken,
     My questions relates to New Jersey State Sales & Use Taxes, and what is/is not applicable, on 
various security alarm system work performed by installers and contractors.  While tax laws and codes are confusing, I noticed inconsistencies relating to 'Capitol Improvement' type jobs/work, and also some language involving wireless alarms and commercial fire testing.  
    I would like definitive information with regards to NJ state sales/use taxes on the following:

  • Taxable for Labor/Installation, or not
  • Residential/Commercial Security Systems(wired)
  • Residential/Commercial Security Systems(wireless)
  • Security Cameras/Cctv. Surveillance Systems(wired or wireless)
  • Access Control Systems and 'Locking-Systems'
  • Installation of 'add-on' devices to an existing system(wired/wireless)
  • Also-The Certifications & Testing and/or Maintenance of the above systems.....and, any 'repairs' made to above systems....??

    Thank You In Advance, and thank you very much for all your firm does for this industry-!!!
anon
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RESPONSE
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    Sorry but I can't answer these tax questions.  Anyone in NJ willing to share a response?
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