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.