[SauronOfMordor]

Security systems must be turned on/armed to trigger alerts. They don't activate themselves magically. I have been known to forget to activate the security system plenty of times.

Perhaps that's the case for the inside system.

For the Speaker of the House, third in line to the Presidency, I really doubt the perimeter security system is anything like your home system.

I strongly think perimeter security is always active, military grade, and monitored by Secret Service or whatever agency provides security to senior members of Congress.

[NautiNurse]

I strongly think perimeter security is always active, military grade, and monitored by Secret Service or whatever agency provides security to senior members of Congress.

Let us know if you confirm your suspicions.