Whether you’re considering a sophisticated motion detector or a simple “bells-only” device, buying an alarm for your home is the best investment you can make in your safety.
Research has shown that the majority of opportunistic thieves will quickly bypass a home if they spot a visible alarm system – and getting one set up doesn’t have to be costly. In fact, it could save you money by driving down the price of your home insurance.
Today, there’s an overwhelming array of different alarm systems available that can suit almost any budget. It’s important to know what you should look for so that you have the right protection at the right time. Our guides will help you find the best alarm system for your needs so that you can have peace of mind for you and your family.
Around 3 million British households have surveillance cameras in their home, and the technology has become increasingly sophisticated in the past few years.
Many of these cameras are ‘smart’ devices that can identify visitors and send alerts directly to your mobile, tablet or PC. They can also record and live stream footage to your phone, so no matter where you are, you know what’s going on outside your home.
Advanced features to look out for include night vision capabilities, notification alerts and facial recognition tools. It may also be worth considering getting a camera that is professionally monitored. When combined with an alarm system, these cameras could quickly alert you to intruders and record crucial evidence of break-ins.
A fire alarm system could save your life and that of your family, so it’s vital that you get the right system and make sure it is maintained.
Smoke and fire alarms should be fitted in all rooms where a fire might start. However, in some rooms that get smoky or steamy, such as your kitchen, a heat alarm may be more suitable as it will go off when the room reaches a certain temperature.
The London Fire Brigade has urged all homeowners to check their alarms are marked with a current British Standards or European (CE) safety mark. If you decide you want a main-powered alarm, make sure it’s installed by a qualified electrician. You may also want to consider getting a monitored alarm so that emergency services are automatically sent to your home in the event of a fire.
One of the most effective security solutions for your home is a monitored burglar alarm. These systems have different specifications depending on which service provider you choose, but they generally all work in the same way.
When a sensor or alarm is triggered in your home, a signal is sent to a central monitoring station, usually from your telephone line. Monitoring personnel will then attempt to call you to see if they’ve received a false alarm. If you don’t reply, they’ll dispatch emergency services to your home.
If you want a police response, make sure your alarm system is maintained by a company with police recommended accreditation. Monitoring systems that operate 24/7 can also be integrated into security cameras and smoke detectors to provide extra security. Most monitored security services are offered on a monthly or annual subscription basis.
Yes, in theory. However, it is recommended that a specialist security engineer installs an alarm system, especially if it’s an advanced design. Many systems, such as those that are wireless, can be installed by the homeowner and are often cheaper but may not last as long.
NSI is an independent, not-for-profit approvals body providing inspection services for the security and fire industries. This includes companies involved in the installation of electronic security and fire protection systems and companies providing manned security services.
SSAIB is a leading certification body for organisations providing security systems and services, fire detection and alarm systems, telecare systems and services, manned services, approved contractors scheme and monitoring services.
Selecting the right home security system can be difficult. It is important to get the best solution for your requirements because only the best will do for your home and family. Let our quoting system pick the right provider.
| ADT | SECOM | Verisure | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monitoring | 24/7 | 24/7 | 24/7 |
| Alarm Systems | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Security Cameras | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fire/Smoke Alarm | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App | Yes | - | Yes |
| NSI Approved | Gold | Gold | Gold |
| Other | Carbon Monoxide Alarm | Physical Security | Guard Response Deterrent Signs Shock Sensor Panic Button Perimeter Detector Portable Control Panel |
| Website | ADT.co.uk | SECOM.plc.uk | Verisure.co.uk |
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