a method for remote monitoring of a premises . a geographically remote client is operatively coupled to a security system server capable of authenticating a user of the remote client . the remote client is then operably coupled to a security gateway capable of managing the monitoring of the premises , activating a signal at the premises for notifying an occupant at the premises that remote monitoring is occurring , and transferring information between the security gateway and the remote client . the transfer of information between the security gateway and the remote client is controlled by the user of the remote client . the security gateway may be operably coupled to at least one camera at the premises and to at least one audio station at the premises .