Cost of Home Security System

Do you want to install a home security system in your property?

Well, you've come to the right place!

In this complete price guide on house security systems we discuss different alarm systems (including wireless home security systems and a smart alarm system, to name a few), CCTV systems, their supply costs and labour fees for fitting.

If you're looking to get an average cost in mind then you should expect to pay anywhere between £165 and £470.

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Find out everything you need to know about home security in the following article!

How Much is a Home Security System?

The average cost for home security ranges from £165 to £470. This may increase or decrease depending on the homeowners' preferences and the number of cameras, alarms, and sensors you would want to be installed in your home.

The last determinant for the price of your home security is whether or not you wish for your home to be monitored by a team of professionals.

Purchasing a full home security equipment upfront can cost you over £200, but if you're on a budget, you can get a discount to reduce your price further. If you don't have money for a direct upfront payment, some companies provide you with the option to lease equipment monthly.

how much does an alarm system cost then? On average, a typical burglar alarm installation will cost £125- £300, for the simplest of alarms. This price range is standard for homeowners who love to install their security systems by themselves, depending on the number of sensors chosen.

For installing a home security system that calls or messages, the burglar alarm cost increases to between £175- £350. All monitored security systems range, starting from £99 to £150.

Home security systems and burglar alarms worldwide come in varying models, with each one having a different price range.

Depending on the model you choose for your home, you need to make sure that the home security system is studied and installed by a professionally accredited installer who knows what they're about.

There are different types of home security, ranging from cameras to lights, and many more. For some homes, the security lights are a great option, as they help deter burglars, making them more visible to homeowners.

Another famous home security system is the CCTV, and this unit is a great option for homeowners who identify themselves as security-conscious.

When fixing home security, the best combination is to integrate both intruder alarm systems with the CCTV or lighting system. Despite this being a very effective combination, it is vital to note that this will be more expensive to possess.

After the home security system's initial installation, the next step is to invest in some extra security sensors or cameras to monitor blind spots around your home, which may be out of range for your system.

This additional equipment will typically cost you upwards of £100, or £30 for door sensors. Check your home security and identify how many devices it can control and accommodate at a time.

Modern times have introduced a new form of home security, smart home security. These systems feature home automation equipment like smart lights and smart locks; each one is meant to allow the homeowner to create routines that turn your home's smart thermostat or lights on or off when you leave for work.

The smart automation capabilities of all home security are offered to the homeowner at an additional cost.

Another factor is the cost attached to system activation. This should be factored into your overall payment plan since installation without activation means you can't operate your home security.

The activation fees range from a one-time fee and go up to £100.

Home Security Prices

The below table sets out the installation prices for various home security systems:

Supply Only Costs

The below table sets out the supply-only costs for various home security systems:

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Additional Costs

Additional costs that come with purchasing home security should be expected since these systems don't usually work in isolation.

The first additional cost you may want to consider if you wish to improve your home security is the magnetic contact sensor. This will cost between £16 and £19 each, and they work with both the wired and wireless alarm systems.

Magnetic contact sensors are placed on doors of homes and sometimes windows and other opening fixtures within your home. The primary purpose is to be highly effective in triggering any unauthorized access close to your premises.

Another thing that incurs additional cost is the use of security stickers. These stickers act as a deterrent to intruders when they attempt entry.

The security stickers may be worth £3 to £5 per pack, and they're highly effective for opportunist burglars.

From the security sticker, we take a look at key fobs, which can help you switch your security system off or on, as and when needed. The key fobs protect your home at any time, since they can be disabled and activated at the simple click of a button.

For a pack of ten fobs, you can expect to pay between £28 and £53. A pack of ten is great because then, everyone in your home can have their piece.

When working with automated home security, you need to invest also in a back-up battery. This ensures your home security system works at all times. The best back-up battery is one that offers up to 5 years of durability.

Before you purchase, you need to research to find out the best battery which complements the type of alarm system you have at home. The most common battery used in such systems is the AA or volt battery, and these usually come between £3 to £5 per pack.

Other additional costs come from external lighting, priced at £125, or automation gates that cost between £7,000 and £8,000 to help make your home security life easier.

Labour Costs and Timescales

The cost of labour is a part of your installation costs for home security. Labour costs refer to how much the artisan involved in the installation process will charge you for their work. The price attached to this service varies from location to location and from one type of home security system to another.

The average certified security specialist will charge you approximately between £150 and £200 per day for their services, depending on your location. The timescales attached to their installation will be dependent on the type of home security being installed in your home.

If you're installing a smart home security system, the artisan will only take an hour or two to install fully, and they'll cost up to £50 per hour. The bells-only alarm would cost around £175 for a full day of labour, while the silent alarm system with police-calling services is priced at £300 for two days' worth of work.

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What is Home Security?

The term home security refers to an individual's personal security as well as the security hardware placed on your property. Typical examples of security hardware include locks, doors, lighting, alarm systems, security camera systems and motion detectors.

The first home security system was invented by Marie Van Brittan Brown, an African-American inventor in 1966. The discovery was made along with her husband Albert Brown, and after three years of constant corrections and evolution, the Browns were granted a patent in 1969.

Some of the security hardware includes control panels, presence simulation, door and window sensors, surveillance cameras, high-decibel alarms, glass break detectors and computer panels. Since its invention, the home security market has grown rapidly and is currently worth $74 billion in the United States.

Home security comes with a lot of benefits, some of which include deterring thieves from attacking your home, keeping tabs on heat and fire within the home, giving you peace of mind at all times. Depending on the type you opt for, you can install a home security system by yourself, or require aid from a certified installation officer.

Cost Factors for Installing Home Security

The installation of any home security type comes with a cost specific to the brand and type. Once you've been given a bill for your home security installation, you must consider all the factors responsible for the final total cost.

Several factors contribute to this pricing, including where you're located, the kind of home security employed, any additional equipment purchased, and finally, how easy it is to gain access to the chosen home security.

Location of Property

The first pricing factor to be considered is your location. Your home location is directly related to the price range you receive from labourers and installation companies. This is because every different location comes with its accepted pricing system, set by labour groups and unions.

Also, suppose your home is located farther away from the installation company or labour force. You should be prepared to invest more in transport than you would if they were located within proximity.

Ease of Access

Ease of access with home security refers to how easy it is for you to access the home security you desire. There are different home security systems, from the senor machines to key fobs and alarm cameras. All these systems can be found around the globe, but some might be more prominent than others.

Study your location and find out the most prevalent home security type before making a purchase. This assures you of experienced labourers and also reduces your need to ask for external assistance at an additional cost.

Type of Home Security

Finally, we look at the different home security types. When it comes to burglar alarms, there are three major types, namely the bells-only alarm system, alert burglar alarm, and the monitored burglar alarm. Each one operates differently, and as such, will have varying installation costs.

The next significant type of home security is the home sensor, which measures the temperature within your home in search of a deviation. Another sensor type is the magnetic contact attached to windows or doors. Once the circuit is broken, your home alarm will go off to alert you of any intrusion.

What's Involved in Installing Home Security?

What are the steps to fix your home security system? Here are some great steps anyone can follow;

• The first step is to install the wireless home security panel either close to a power source or near your primary entry door. You can either do this by drilling holes or using a removable double-sided adhesive on your walls.
• Next, place all the detectors and sensors throughout your home, using the manufacturers and your building inspector's guidelines.
• With all components attached, now is the time to test your security system with help from the security systems owner manual to ensure your system is doing a great job.

Can I Install Home Security Myself?

Except for a monitored alarm system, anyone can fit home security on their own, thus reducing monies given out. When it comes to the DIY installation of home security, the police raise any concerns about how dependable these alarm systems will be, as opposed to those installed by trade professionals and monitored by a certified and trusted company.

The best tip to undertake such a project successfully is to be confident with DIY in general. Depending on your level of DIY expertise and experience, you should be able to install your home security within two days, depending on the type you're working with.

Some essential tools you will need to install home security on your own fully include nails, a hammer, and self-adhesive. When installing using the DIY option, one must be extra careful with the burglar alarms and their hardwiring and connected to your electric system.

If you're not sure about anything, getting an expert in the scene will significantly help you and your home.

Types of Home Security

There are two major types of home security systems, the security alarm system, and the security cameras. There are varying types, including the bells-only alarm, wired alarm, silent alarms, and the wireless alarm when it comes to security alarms.

Home Security Alarm Systems

Each alarm system has different installation methods. More so, the home security alarm cost also varies. Installing the bells-only alarm costs between £125 and £300 to install, the wired alarm £400 to £800, the silent alarm being £200 to £300, and the wireless alarm costs between £200 and £600.

Pros

• ✔ Alarm systems are very quick and easy to install
• ✔ Little to no labour costs being required
• ✔ Depending on the type, regular maintenance isn't required
• ✔ There is no replacement cost

Cons

• ✖ The alarm system must be installed by a professional once it requires hardwiring
• ✖ The bells-only model is vulnerable and doesn't alert the police
• ✖ Sensor batteries of your wireless alarm need to be replaced regularly

CCTV Systems

Next is the CCTV system. This type of home security system cost varies and also comes with varying types. The closed-circuit television, also known as CCTV, is a home security system that works independently of the internet. Instead, all videos are recorded with the home security cameras and stored in a location for future use.

CCTV cameras are commonly found in large homes and business areas since they help cover larger areas. The cost of home security CCTV is between £70 to £340 per camera, and they're known to be very effective.

Pros

• ✔ Offers a wide field view
• ✔ Very easy to access in stores
• ✔ Durable and easily visible around your home

Cons

• ✖ CCTV systems require multiple cameras, and as such, they might be extra expensive to invest in
• ✖ Using these cameras in isolation doesn't guarantee total protection of your home

Building Regulations & Planning Permission for Installing Home Security

The installation of a security alarm usually doesn't require any planning permission, unless you reside in a listed building or conservation area. You must check with your local planning authority in such places before installing any new equipment.

In another light, if your home security system involves any electrical work, its installation will have to comply with the relevant standards in all approved documents.

One pressing regulation about electrical works for home security is that all installers who aren't registered as competent may employ any registered third-party certifier, who will act as an alternative to building control bodies.

The full details on the competency of labour for home security installation can be found online and in the office of all local authorities where local authority building control teams can be found. These applications can be found and filled online.

To gain local authorities' approval to install your home security electrical, some guidelines must be followed.

• The first step is to invest in a building control surveyor. Such a person can be found in not-for-profit services offered by your local council. The building control surveyor, also known as a building inspector, is an impartial building professional with in-depth information on the issues and expertise on your area's Building regulations.
• The next thing to do is submit your building regulation application, including any drawings and specifications where necessary. Another way to apply to your local building authority is via a building notice when all building regulations have been met on site. The risk involved with the building notice is that work carried out may need upgrading or later along the line.
• Start the work, but be ready for regular inspections from the building control surveyor, who is there to offer guidance and advice at the various stages of work until work completion.

The price attached to building regulations approval is dependent on whether or not you liaise with your local council or not. Once you find a building inspector, they will give you more information on the costs involved and how payment can be made. Waiting for planning permission doesn't take a lot of time.

Benefits of Home Security

Here are a few benefits that come with home security.

Allows Remote Access to Your Home

When you're not home, you can know what's happening in your home remotely, thanks to modern security systems. It may be through cameras installed around your home, or sensors within the house. Depending on your security provider, you control varying aspects of your home without being physically present.

Protects Valuables

Another benefit of the home security system Is the first benefit many homeowners know, and the major one encourages them to invest. Home security systems feature alarms that ward off unwanted burglars by notifying your local authorities during a break-in.

Offers You Peace of Mind

An alarm system gives a sense of security and a lot of peace, making this the best benefit of all. The confidence that comes with feeling safe allows you to be more focused, healthy, and productive.

Notifies You of Any Issues

Besides crime and break-ins, having a home security system can help you stay on top of other things in your home. The modern home security systems give you notifications if they detect any carbon monoxide or smoke within your house while you're away. In such instances, the security provider you work with can notify the necessary authorities to prevent further damage.

Reduces Homeowners Insurance

Once you have a home security installed at home, you can reduce your insurance by up to 20%, instead of paying a monthly fee for your security system. This makes investing in a home security system an excellent deal.

Do I Need Home Security?

If you're looking for an extra layer of defence against potential intruders, adding a security system is the best way to go. You can enjoy the benefits of having a security system, whether you rent or own your home.

Removing Home Security Cost

Sometimes, you may need to remove your home security system to replace or upgrade it. The process of removing a home security system is straightforward and can be done without causing damage to your home wiring system.

If you don't feel good enough to remove your system on your own, you can employ a contractor to remove it at a fee. If you want to do this as a DIY project, use the following procedure;

• Contact the alarm company before you start disconnecting parts
• Disconnect any sirens attached to your alarm system
• Pull the control panel of your system down, and cap off the wiring if you won't install any other panel
• Take out all the old battery packs if you're not upgrading your existing security system
• If your home security comes with other installation components, you can now take time to remove them. Some of these other components include cameras, sensors, and motion detectors

Hiring Contractors to Install Security Checklist

When searching for the ideal contractor to install your security system, the following checklist will help make your search easier. Find someone who;

• Has an electronics qualification
• Is certified
• Can work in a team and do hands-on practical jobs
• Has colour-normal vision, which is vital for cabling
• Has good reviews/feedback
• Has a website

If you want to be a certified installer yourself, some courses and qualifications can make your journey easier. To begin a long-term career in home security installation, you should start with an apprenticeship, which will provide the necessary security system installation skills.

Most of these apprenticeships are paid jobs; thus, you can earn 5 per hour if you're below 20 years, and six if you're above.

In addition to an apprenticeship, you will need a City & Guild qualification, which is often integrated with an apprenticeship. There are also third-party training courses you can invest in to have better industry experience. Apprenticeship employers organize most of these courses.

Finally, the last but very essential requirement to be an expert home security installation officer is a career transition partnership qualification. This applies to ex-service women and men looking to start a new life in the civilian world.

The British Security Industry Association has various courses that give you the needed certification for the security industry.

FAQs

Sources

https://www.safewise.com/blog/installing-a-home-security-system-is-easier-than-you-think/
https://www.doityourself.com/stry/tips-for-removing-a-home-security-system
https://www.farsight.co.uk/blog/security-systems-installer-qualifications/
https://www.planningportal.co.uk/info/200135/approved_documents/82/part_p_-_electrical_safety