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Master Burglar Alarm • Securing Austin Since 1963
When Loyd Ligon co-founded Master Burglar Alarm in 1963, he was stepping into uncharted territory. After starting in Dallas, Loyd and a friend brought their vision to Austin, crafting local and custom security solutions before "home security" was a common term. Today, Master Burglar Alarm, led by his son Ronny and supported by Ronny's wife, Debbie, is a cornerstone of the local industry.
Loyd’s dedication lasted a lifetime — he remained president until his passing in 2017 at 89, still riding his Harley and embodying hard work and innovation. "It wasn’t just a career for Loyd," Debbie explains. "It was his life’s passion."
Adapting to a Changing Landscape
In the early days, MBA focused on commercial clients. "Back then, people didn’t even lock their doors," Debbie recalls. "Business owners were our only customers, and the equipment was often handmade to fit specific needs."
By the mid-1980s, MBA had expanded into residential systems, offering tailored solutions for Austin’s growing neighborhoods. Today, their services integrate cutting-edge digital and mobile technology for seamless monitoring. “It’s a far cry from the days of silver tape on glass,” Debbie laughs.
Master Burglar Alarm prides itself on offering personalized solutions rather than cookie-cutter packages. “We don’t sell you things you don’t need,” Debbie emphasizes. “We scale each system to your requirements and budget, whether you want all the bells and whistles or just the basics.” From motion detectors to smart cameras, their approach is practical and focused on real-world effectiveness.
A Legacy of Trust
One hallmark of Master Burglar Alarm is their relationship with customers. "Some of our clients have been with us since the beginning," Debbie says. “We’ve seen them through births, deaths, marriages, and grandkids. It’s not just about security; it’s about being part of their lives.”
Though they no longer handle monitoring in-house, Master Burglar Alarm partners with trusted providers for 24/7 coverage. Their understanding of monitoring systems ensures fast, reliable responses to break-ins or fires, offering peace of mind.
Expertise That Stands the Test of Time
Despite its longevity, the company eagerly embraces innovation. “We’ve kept up with the latest technology while maintaining older systems for those who find them effective,” Debbie shares. “We even test new equipment in our own home to ensure it works. We are here to give people peace of mind. We may not stop every break-in, but we make sure you know about it.”
With a small dedicated team of employees, including Tom, who has been answering phones for over 20 years; Kevin, lead tech for more than 40 years; and Jeff, one of their newer techs, Master Burglar Alarm remains a family business committed to the Austin area's security needs.
Visit their website to learn more.