With so many home alarm companies offering their services, it can be tough to know who to trust with your security. Doing your research and asking the installer some key questions are crucial to making sure the home alarm system you choose works effectively and is valid with your insurance.
As a starting point, you should find out exactly how long the installer has been operating. If the security system you need is complicated, make sure the company you choose has at least a few years experience, and contact several to get a range of quotes.
You should also make sure they are an accredited company. You don’t have to take their word for it, you can look them up on the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) website or the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB) database.
Ask the firm what type of alarm system is suited for your home and budget. The installer should be able to provide you with a range of systems and explain to you clear terms the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Another key question is to ask how long the firm takes to respond to alarms on average. A good provider should be able to do this within 60 seconds.
Open-ended questions about how exactly the installer ensures the security of its clients can help you gauge their reputation. They should respond by telling you how they require security checks on all their employees, have guarantees on their products and provide certified electricians for all wiring.
Find out if the installation for a wired alarm system meets with British Standard 4737/BS EN 50131. Wireless systems should be a BS 6799 Class VI alarm. According to the City of London Police: “This type is typically more expensive than its hard-wired counterpart. Be aware that systems that claim to meet with British Standards, but don’t specify BS 4737/BS EN 50131 or 6799, may well be referring to the electrical standard and not that of the alarm system.”
The National Security Inspectorate (NSI), the leading certification body for the UK security industry, recommends asking:
1 – Is the system capable of meeting the standards of workmanship and service you would expect?
2 – Does the company properly security vet all relevant staff to British Standards?
3 – Does it operate a 24 hour call out service and is it able to respond within 4 hours?
4 – Is it fully insured?
5 – Is it rigorously inspected twice a year to ensure standards are maintained?
6 – Has it completed a thorough security survey and Risk Assessment of your property?
7 – Is it installing reliable, up to date equipment?
8 – Has it issued you with a Certificate of Compliance for your system?
9 – Has it offered you a maintenance contract?
10 – Has it met the requirements of the police and your insurer?
11 – Does it operate to the highest level of business excellence through achievement of the industry specific ISO 9001 Quality Management system (NSI NACOSS Gold only)?
Companies that can answer these questions will give you a ‘Certificate of Compliance’ after completing the installation of an electronic security system. This certificate may be required by your insurance company and is crucial to giving you peace of mind.
