Are home alarm systems worth it? This article looks at the benefits of installing a home security system and if home security is good value for money.
Benefits of having a home security camera system
One of the most significant pro's you'll find upon installing a smart home security camera with a control panel is that it is one of the most efficient ways to prevent crime and poses a significant deterrent.
When burglars detect or see a home or property with a working camera system, police officers in the UK have stated that they are more likely to pass and look for a building that is an easier target. Home security cameras are a fantastic option for those searching for a recovery tool.
Suppose your home has been burglarised or targeted; you can use the footage created, rewinding the tapes and use it as evidence to identify the criminals or their licence plates.
The police can then track down the burglars, which can later be valuable for claiming insurance as proof that the attack or theft occurred. A great way to ensure you and your family are safe is through the professional installation of brand-new, high-quality camera systems.
Plenty of working parents find themselves paralysed with worry over leaving children alone in the house, even those of old enough age to do so. However, with the help of home security systems, you can monitor and check that your family is safe at any hour of the day whilst diligently working.
A significant concern for many working people or those on holiday is pets and their safety and well-being. Cameras will allow you to check on your animals and ensure they are safe inside and outside your household.
Do I need a home security system?
Crime is simply unavoidable, no matter the area you live in, and after the pandemic, studies showed that crime throughout the UK significantly increased when the government eventually lifted the restrictions.
In 2021/2022, data shows there were approximately 192,060 burglaries in England and Wales. It is vital to have security systems installed by qualified professionals to protect your belongings, housemates, family members and pets.
How do burglar alarms work?
Many available, active burglar alarms work by loudly sounding off an alert noise whenever suspicious movement is uncovered or sensed throughout your home. They have a broad range of motion detectors inside that help alert you, neighbours, the local authorities, and emergency services that there is a potential intruder.
The key is to place these entry sensors close by or in locations where you, your guests and other callers are likely to enter your home or where they may try if they do not have immediate access.
Such sensitive areas include the conservatory doors and windows, back doors, the front door and any other windows at the ground level. It's paramount to place them in these areas as they are more likely to pick up movement.
You can also implement additional devices or technology to further your system and improve the sensory aspects of your burglar alarm. For example, you can have professionals install hi-tech window sensors that help trigger your alarm more efficiently whenever a window is improperly opened.
The thought of burglar alarm systems, especially a high-quality one that is loud or bright, is often enough to put thieves and vandals off attempting to trespass onto your land, building or inside your household.
The loudness of your alarm will evoke attention from you and your household, or if you are not home, it will garner attention from your neighbours and even bypassers in the street, should there be any. When installing a comprehensive, quality alarm system, you must remember to keep the box visible at the front of your property or home.
Doing so constantly reminds outsiders that your building has a working alarm that will sound if they try to intrude. Even in times between repairs or general maintenance when your alarm may not be functioning as it should, we encourage you to keep this box visible, especially when your house is empty, as this can still act as an efficient deterrent.
Cost of home security equipment
When it comes to the required initial investment and its evaluation to assess how much value it will cost to implement a brand-new security system into your house or business, the average ranges from around £210 to approximately £840 or more.
The cost of your system and best value will usually depend on the quality of the brand manufacturer you opt for, the amount and level of equipment utilised and the duration and scale of the installation. You'll be happy to uncover that many alarm system installations exist under one-time costs, and you will get ownership of the equipment in many cases.
When your system is installed and functional for use, you must then consider the monthly fees you'll be expected to pay. Don't worry; homeowners are granted lots of control over the security system cost. When selecting suitable devices or the right system for your household or property, you'll discover that the offered packages can vary depending on numerous factors.
Several aspects involved include the overall services you desire, the level of professional monitoring you're after and the features chosen. Various plans are available on the market from credible alarm system companies that cost approximately £17-£20 per month.
Ensure you pick packages that cater to your budget and needs, such as round-the-clock monitoring with live cameras and frequent security patrol. Regular patrolling typically costs several hundred pounds per month or more, as it involves more labour.
How to know if the system is worth it
According to the UK's Electronic Security Association, those households and properties with functioning security systems can still find themselves victims of crime, and this can mean that you may experience an average loss of around £1,700 less than buildings that have not invested in protection.
On the other hand, various security systems are often perceived as an excellent deterrent. Approximately 60% of convicted burglars attested to targeting other homes after discovering a functioning security system in the one they initially desired to rob. Suppose your goal is to reduce the loss you may experience from a burglary; in that case, security systems can make plenty of difference.
You could find yourself saving much more money should you add monitoring cameras, smoke alarms, burglar alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
All of these automation services and security features can significantly help provide peace of mind when protecting your belongings, reduce property damage, manage energy costs and prevent loss of life or injury from criminals.
Should I get a burglar alarm?
Homeowners and landlords need to implement a few critical health and safety measures to ensure everyone feels secure and comfortable inside their homes. It matters not whether you resort to purchasing a mobile phone, installing brand-new security lighting, or investing in more security equipment, for example, a burglar alarm. Each investment is worth it and will improve your life in some way or another.
When asking yourself whether it is wise to buy a high-quality alarm, ensure you research all the best models and reputable companies within your area before deciding on a specific brand. You must avoid the urge to purchase most alarm systems sold by sellers knocking at your door or by cold callers, as these could be faulty or offer a far shorter lifespan.
Upon deciding on the burglar alarm you want, it's vital to assess how effective they are for deterring potential intruders and ridding crime. Many police officers across the UK encourage the installation of security and alarm systems in your homes, as it has been proven that many thieves, vandals and criminals are more likely to flee your property if there are signs of high-quality systems that could give away their crime.
Does a burglar alarm reduce home insurance?
Often, you'll find that the cost of your home insurance is deciphered by the level of risk that your household is at within its specific location.
Suppose your home is placed in an area with a higher crime rate, or your house is surrounded by or filled with extravagant objects and devices; this means your home is likely harder to insure, meaning the insurance premium costs are higher. Few insurance providers will provide you with discounts if you have a functioning burglar alarm installed in your home.
You may discover that the insurance is far cheaper when complete with an alarm installed instead of without. There are many providers that can be particular about the specific type of alarm that is installed in your household or property.
You might only receive a proper discount if you have an approved alarm system that the insurance company recognises. Often approved devices have received certification from Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board; it also counts as those installed by qualified installers part of the NSI (National Security Inspectorate).
Otherwise, you may not receive an insurance discount at all. Suppose you have an updated burglar alarm installed, yet it did not go off during recent burglary break-ins or attempts as it was inactive; this could mean that your current provider could deny payment if you make an insurance claim. In this case, we highly recommend checking your home insurance policy details to assess what may happen if this occurs, as the consequences can vary.
It's vital to ensure your alarm is set and turned on at all times, especially when you leave the household or premises empty or when everyone is sleeping in bed and less alert. Some smart alarm systems have zoning features, meaning they focus on specific rooms of your home or building and not others, or they only alert downstairs instead of upstairs or vice versa. It's paramount to ensure your alarms receive alerts in all rooms or areas of your property so that everyone inside can efficiently evacuate or someone can contact the authorities.
Preston Alarm Experts provides the best home security fitting services in and around Preston. Whatever you require, our professional team can assist you with everything from small repairs to installing a completely new home security system.