If you are a business with commercial premises, a public sector body or a homeowner, having the right grade of intruder alarm is important to keep your property properly insured and protected. But what is best for you?
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.
As we focus our business on offering security systems for larger private properties, commercial premises or public sector buildings 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 National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Gold accredited installer we work with an NSI-approved 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.
As we are NSI Gold accredited our customers can have the peace of mind that all the intruder alarm equipment we specify and install meets the highest standards of compliance required. To book a site visit or to discuss the alarm grade you require, or other security needs you have, please contact us.