For anyone looking to take a serious approach to premises security, there will always be a question about making sure you are getting the best value for money. In this article we will look over what dictates the final price for any kind of installation and what you must look out for in terms of hidden charges or cheap alternatives. We’ll give you all the information you need to make an informed decision about your security solution and give you an example on how much a professional domestic alarm should set you back. Before we jump ahead and look at how a quote is costed, it is very important to remember what the key factors are that can drive the quotation price:
Type – Choice of System
Choosing the right security solution that is appropriate for your property is your first key decision. For most domestic installs, an intruder alarm with a number of motion sensors is a sensible option and less expensive than a CCTV installation. Source a security provider with an extensive range of products, both in terms of function and style. Make sure you remain in control of the exact specification of your installation and avoid being railroaded into unnecessary features.
Scale – Size of Property
To ensure complete coverage of your property, the size and nature of your address will have a bearing on the amount of security devices required. Of course, a small dwelling will inevitably cost less to secure than an office block or a modern manufacturing facility. As different premises types present unique circumstances, any professional installer will need to conduct a survey to make sure any solutions offered are cost effective for you while also addressing any specific needs.
As an Example:
Depending on your installation company, an intruder alarm for a 3 or 4 bedroom house with app operation can cost in the region of £550 to £950 (+ VAT). This price should be inclusive of installation charges and should include a demonstration of the system and any set up costs. A wide range of other security examples can be found by clicking here
Again, the type, scale and scope of an installation are the factors which dictate the final price. Any reputable security company will wish to conduct a survey to enable an accurate quote to be calculated, and this service should be free. To discuss such a no obligation, free survey with our team, please click here.
Why can an alarm system sometimes be quoted cheaper?
- Be careful with security companies that offer lower than expected quotations. Some companies will offer a reduced installation price but could hide that expense within a monthly upkeep charge or compulsory maintenance contract.
- Check the makes and models of the equipment they are offering to install. They could be “off-the-shelf” DIY kits being repurposed for your quote. For quality to be assured, check that you are having equipment that is certified to British Standards PD6662:2017 (including British Standards 8243:2021) & EN50131-1 and ask those questions ahead of accepting any quote.
- Is the installer part of an approved governing body? Being part of NSI and SSAIB means that your alarms will be accredited to those standards and certificates made available for the benefit of reducing your insurance premiums.
Why is my quote more expensive than I expected?
Governing bodies that assess the installation of security systems exist to make sure that customers have professional systems that offer excellent reliability.
That means that when you choose an alarm company that is approved by NSI and SSAIB, you know you can rely on them for complete peace of mind and that your insurer will be satisfied that full security measures are in place. Under the care of such accredited companies, you’ll receive a “Certificate of Compliance” that confirms a professional installation. It is often this level of accreditation that drives the price of an intruder alarm system as all equipment and installation must adhere to strict quality controls.
To obtain an NSI or SSAIB certificate requires high performance graded equipment and trained technicians and that is why the price will be higher than installations completed by a local handyman. Security companies (such as ourselves) will only fit equipment that has been graded to the British Standard and offer that increased level of performance. This equipment is tested to ensure it offers exceptional reliability giving you absolute faith it won’t let you down when you most need it. So, while cost is often a factor for the enquiring customer, a higher level of consideration should instead be applied to the idea of value.
- For a couple of hundred pounds less, sure you could work with an unapproved installer, but can you have faith in that intruder alarm system?
- Can you be sure that your cheaper install will include a 24/7 support helpline with reactive care in case of a breakdown?
- Does your installer carry out a full property risk assessment ahead of any works?
What else to look out for?
Again, be absolutely sure on what is being factored into that quotation. Some alarm companies are falling into the dubious practice of asking customers to set up monthly fees for the operation of the alarm system. This practice can often be mis sold in such a way that an installation which may initially look cheap actually becomes a constant expense.
Be careful that you don’t purchase alarm systems that are unique to a single company. Some alarm companies hold exclusivity deals with hardware providers which can lock you into using their services in the future. Should such a system require upgrading or you become unhappy with the services of that alarm company, you may find yourself with few options and a prisoner of your prior choices. Far better to make sure you choose an alarm system that can be maintained by a range of different providers, thereby keeping you in control.
Other alarm companies might tie you into a long-term contract for the servicing and maintenance of your alarm system that could pose an issue should you leave that premises, or your circumstances change. It is not uncommon to see 36-month contracts being offered for security solutions, and this leaves customers with very little in the way of future options should they find themselves dissatisfied. Ensuring your alarm system is well maintained by a reputable company is vitally important but try to find a scheme that works for you and your needs.
In comparison, our maintenance package offers a 12-month fixed price contract with no hidden charges. Why not click here so you can get a feel for what you could expect with Colt Security Systems.
