One answer to this question could be well, how long is a piece of string? Because when it comes to home security there are so many variables. DIY kits, professional kits with self-installs, monitored systems, self-monitored systems, smoke systems, bell-only systems, professional installs. To be honest, it can be a bit of a minefield. That's why in this blog, we want to be as helpful as possible so that if you're in the market for a new house alarm system, hopefully you can get the answers you're looking for here.
We've been in the alarm game for 40 years now and what we know is, when it comes to protecting your home, understanding the true cost of a home alarm system is crucial. Many homeowners are tempted by low upfront costs (that can often come with lengthy and pricey monthly fees), but often overlook the long-term value and peace of mind that comes with investing in a high-quality, comprehensive security system. In this blog, we’ll dive into the various aspects of home alarm system costs, comparing national brands with local companies like ours, and why sometimes, spending a bit more initially can save you a lot in the long run. In this blog we'll cover:
Understanding the Basics of Home Alarm System Costs
Price Comparison: National Brands vs. Local Companies
Why a Visible Alarm System Matters
The Cost of Security vs. The Price of Vulnerability
Alarm System Price Comparison: National Brands vs. Local Companies vs. DIY Systems...
According to research by crimerate.co.uk, the average cost of a burglar alarm in 2024 is £562. But what exactly do you get for that amount of money? Who is going to install it for you? And is it actually going to do the job it's intended to do? Let’s break down the costs and features of different alarm systems offered by some of the big National brands, local companies, and DIY options to help you make an informed decision.
National Brands
1. ADT
Initial Costs: ADT offers professionally installed systems with initial costs ranging from around £800 to £1140. These systems typically include various sensors, control panels, and basic equipment.
Monthly Fees: ADT’s monitoring services cost between £30 and £50 per month, adding a significant long-term expense.
Contract Obligations: ADT typically requires a 36-month contract, locking you into long-term payments and commitments.
Warranty: ADT provides a limited warranty that covers equipment for the duration of the contract.
Additional Features: While ADT provides robust monitoring services, their systems do not include app control options, limiting remote management capabilities.
2. Verisure
Initial Costs: Verisure's basic 'SVK' kit starts around £279. However, this price can be misleading as the equipment is not owned by you, the customer.
Monthly Fees: Monthly monitoring fees are approximately £47, with a £99 fee if you cancel and wish to keep the equipment.
Contract Obligations: Verisure requires a contract with monthly fees of around £47 a month with additional costs if you decide to cancel early.
Warranty: Verisure includes equipment maintenance and support for the duration of the contract.
Additional Features: Verisure offer additional products such as their 'ZeroVision Alarm' as an add-on which are designed to fill the room with smoke to impair the vision of an intruder. It's worth noting, Verisure’s systems lack external sirens and visible bell boxes, which are critical deterrents for potential intruders.
3. SimpliSafe
Initial Costs: SimpliSafe offers self-install systems ranging from £159 to £519, depending on the package, with an option for professional installation at an additional cost.
Monthly Fees: Monitoring fees range from £12.99 to £19.99 per month, which is a more affordable option than its competitors
Contract Obligations: SimpliSafe provides more flexibility with no long-term contracts, allowing customers to cancel anytime.
Warranty: SimpliSafe offers a three-year warranty on equipment.
Additional Features: While SimpliSafe systems are easy to install and manage, they often require numerous add-ons for comprehensive coverage, including bell boxes and external sirens. You'll also need to factor in installation costs if you don't fancy tackling it yourself.
DIY Alarm Systems
1. Ring
Initial Costs: Ring offers self-install home security systems ranging from £219.99 to £509.99.
Monthly Fees: Ring's monthly fees for self-monitoring start at around £8, with professional monitoring plans available at higher rates.
Contract Obligations: No long-term contracts, providing flexibility.
Warranty: Ring provides a one-year limited warranty on their equipment.
Additional Features: Ring systems are user-friendly and integrate well with other smart home devices, but may require additional purchases for full functionality.
2. Yell (Bell-Only)
Initial Costs: Bell-only alarms from Yell and other providers average between £300 and £400, including installation.
Monthly Fees: These systems typically do not have monthly fees as they are not monitored.
Contract Obligations: No contracts due to the lack of monitoring services.
Warranty: Warranty details vary by provider and system but are generally limited.
Additional Features: These systems provide a loud noise when triggered but do not offer remote monitoring or app control features.
Local Security Companies
Midland Alarm Services
Initial Costs: At Midland Alarm Services, we offer comprehensive alarm systems with initial costs ranging from £750 to £1200. Our popular 'Pro Protect' system, currently on offer for £999, includes a touchscreen keypad, bell box, two perimeter protection shock sensors, a camera PIR sensor for image verification, and a WiFi communicator.
Monthly Fees: MAS provides an optional remote monitoring plan with a mobile app for £12.95 per month with no long-term contract. We also offer a full service plan for £21.95 per month, which includes the mobile monitoring app, an annual service, battery replacements, an extended three-year warranty, and priority callouts.
Contract Obligations: There are no long-term contracts with MAS, giving customers the freedom and flexibility they need.
Warranty: MAS includes a comprehensive warranty with their service plans, ensuring long-term support and maintenance.
Additional Features: One of the standout features of MAS is the personal touch in customer service. When you call us, you speak to a real person, often the same person, every time. Leila, the office manager, ensures that all of our customer needs are met promptly. Additionally, our security systems include visible bell boxes and loud external sirens, which are crucial for deterring intruders as well as perimeter protection products which stop the intruder before they enter your home!
**From August 2024 - MAS now give their customers the option to spread the initial cost of their alarm system over a time frame that suits them with finance partner Kanda.
Comparison Summary
Initial Costs:
National Brands: ADT (£800-£1140) - inc installation , Verisure (£279), SimpliSafe (£159-£519) - plus installation fees
DIY Systems: Ring (£219.99-£509.99), Yell (£300-£400) - self install
Midland Alarm Services: £750-£1200 including installation
Monthly Fees:
National Brands: ADT (£30-£50), Verisure (average £47), SimpliSafe (£12.99-£19.99)
DIY Systems: Ring (around £8), Yell (none)
Midland Alarm Services: £12.95 (optional) or £21.95 (optional - full service plan)
Contract Obligations:
National Brands: ADT (36 months), Verisure (contract with fees for cancellation)
DIY Systems: Ring (none), Yell (none)
Midland Alarm Services: No long-term contracts
Warranty:
National Brands: ADT (limited warranty for contract duration), Verisure (maintenance for contract duration), SimpliSafe (three-year warranty)
DIY Systems: Ring (one-year limited warranty), Yell (varies)
Midland Alarm Services: Extended three-year warranty with full service plan
Customer Service and Features:
National Brands: Often impersonal, difficult to reach consistent support, major components ie visible bell box not always as standard/ available at all
DIY Systems: User-friendly but limited in comprehensive features without add-ons
Midland Alarm Services: Personal, consistent customer support, comprehensive systems with visible deterrents
Long-Term Cost Comparison
When considering the long-term costs, it’s important to evaluate not just the initial investment but also the ongoing expenses over several years. Here’s a cost comparison over five years:
National Brands (Example: ADT):
Initial Cost: £970 (average)
Monthly Fees: £40 (average)
Five-Year Total: £970 + (£40 x 60 months) = £3,370
National Brands (Example: Verisure):
Initial Cost: £279
Monthly Fees: £47
Five-Year Total: £279 + (£47 x 60 months) = £3,099
National Brands (Example: SimpliSafe):
Initial Cost: £339 (average including some add-ons)
Monthly Fees: £16.49 (average)
Five-Year Total: £339 + (£16.49 x 60 months) = £1,328.40
DIY Systems (Example: Ring):
Initial Cost: £365 (average)
Monthly Fees: £8 (self-monitoring)
Five-Year Total: £365 + (£8 x 60 months) = £845
Midland Alarm Services:
Initial Cost: £999 (Pro Protect system)
Monthly Fees: £21.95 (full service plan)
Five-Year Total: £999 + (£21.95 x 60 months) = £2,316
While the initial cost of Midland Alarm Services' systems may be at the higher end of what's on the market, we truly believe the comprehensive coverage, dedicated customer service, and lack of hidden fees make it a valuable long-term investment.
When you're shopping around for the right home security setup for your family, do your research and consider the peace of mind, reliable service, and overall value you’re receiving over the years compared to simply looking at your initial system cost alone. By taking a closer look at the costs and features of different alarm systems, it's clear that investing in a high-quality, locally supported system like those offered by Midland Alarm Services can provide significant long-term benefits and peace of mind.
How Important is a Visible Alarm?
A visible alarm system is a crucial element of home security, acting as both a deterrent and a warning signal. Statistics show that homes with visible security measures, such as bell boxes and external sirens, are up to 75% less likely to be targeted by burglars. This is because the presence of these devices clearly indicates that the property is protected, prompting potential intruders to think twice before attempting a break-in. Additionally, in the event of an alarm being triggered, a loud external siren can alert neighbours and passersby, increasing the chances of an intruder being caught or deterred. This not only provides a psychological barrier to criminal activity but also enhances the overall security of the neighbourhood.
The Cost of Security vs. The Price of Vulnerability
Many homeowners tend to put off investing in a home security system, often only realising its importance after experiencing a break-in. The unfortunate reality is that waiting until after a burglary can lead to not only financial loss but also emotional distress and a long road to recovery. The cost of repairing damage, replacing stolen items, and dealing with the aftermath far outweighs the initial investment in a security system. By proactively securing your home, you're not just protecting your belongings—you're safeguarding your peace of mind and sense of safety.
After 40 years in the game, we urge you to not wait until it’s too late to make your home security a priority. With our new option to spread the cost of your alarm system over a payment plan that suits your budget, a robust and professional system is now more affordable than ever. Take action today to protect what matters most. For a free, no obligation quote get in touch and we'd be happy to help!
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