An intruder or burglar alarm system is a security system that will protect your property from a break-in. A range of sensors, that can be placed externally and internally, will detect motion, and this will sound an alarm.
The detectors should be located in areas where people are more likely to try to enter your home or commercial property, such as entry doors or windows. Additionally, the alarm system can be connected to your mobile device allowing you to receive notifications when the alarm sounds.
The key benefits to you as a home or business owner of installing a burglar alarm are:
- To protect your property from theft and vandalism
- Increasing the likelihood of police apprehending criminals
- Lowering your insurance premiums
- Providing peace of mind when you’re away from home or off-site
Wired and Wireless Burglar Alarm Systems
Wireless intruder alarm systems use battery-powered sensors that communicate with a control panel using radio signals. The main benefit of this system is that they are quicker to install as we do not need to run wires around your property. You will need batteries for all components, such as the control panel and all sensors but with modern systems these should last at least five years.
Wired systems, on the other hand, need wires running to each of the sensors to work. They will take longer to install as we take our time to ensure the wires are hidden and properly fitted. You will also need a back-up battery in the main control panel and the external siren battery which will require changing approximately every five years.
Depending on the type and size of your property, you may decide to install a hybrid intruder alarm system to protect it further. For a large building we would recommend a wired system, but if you additionally want your intruder alarm system to stretch to outbuildings, we can extend its range by using wireless detectors. You will then gain the advantages of both type of system.
What are intruder alarm system grades?
Under the BS EN 50131 intruder alarm standard there are four different grades of burglar alarm. These are based on their levels of performance such as functionality, reliability and durability and the risk level of the property or business.
Grade 1 alarms are installed in domestic or other properties where there is a low likelihood of it being targeted by criminals. They work on the basis that if opportunistic thieves do attempt to break-in they are unlikely to have the skills to disable even a basic alarm system. Meanwhile, Grade 4 alarm systems are for extremely high-risk properties and are not commonly available.
To ensure residential and commercial customers getting the best protection we only fit grade 2 and grade 3 level alarms:
- Grade 2 systems offer a good level of security for most residential properties and lower risk small commercial properties. This level will protect against burglars who have some knowledge of the alarm system and property. It protects multiple entry points.
- Grade 3 systems are designed to combat burglars and attackers with advanced knowledge of the alarm system and have tools and equipment (including portal electronic devices). The system is comprehensive and protects all potential entry points of a building. High risk homes and lots of commercial properties fall into this category.
Remote Monitoring
While the modern alarm systems we install will send notifications of alarms being triggered to a mobile device, if you have a higher risk property it is likely that having a remotely monitored alarm system will be required by your insurer. This remote monitoring is carried out by an alarm receiving centre (ARC). The alarm will send signals to the ARC to provide a response which can be to:
- notify nominated keyholders
- notify a linked keyholding service and/or
- notify the Police
As a SSAIB-certified security systems installer we work with a compliant ARC and we are recognised by the Police should you require a police response. We will set up your intruder alarm system to ensure it is monitored to the level required and you receive the notifications that you need. We can also keep the intruder alarm system maintained properly to ensure continued compliance, which is vital if you require a police response.
Making sure we meet your needs
Before we install a burglar alarm, our surveyors will visit the premises to assess and review requirements since each alarm system is unique. By conducting a site visit we can establish your specific requirements and take into consideration any additional insurance requests you may have to comply with. Then we can design, and install, an intruder alarm system that is of the correct alarm grade and complies with current industry standards.
If you are based in Bristol or elsewhere in south-west England and would like to book a site visit or to discuss the alarm grade you require, or other security needs you have, please contact us.
