Monitoring contracts

A monitored alarm system will cost more than an unmonitored version, as a monthly or annual fee is payable in addition to the installation fee. The extra charge varies depending on the level of service – and additional peace of mind – provided, as outlined below.

Keyholder response

Under this type of contract the homeowner or a nominated keyholder is contacted by phone if there are two indications that a burglary is happening, eg reported suspicious activity accompanied by a ringing alarm.

Police response

For a higher fee, your system can be linked to the police; it often includes a one-off payment to allocate your home a unique reference number for easy identification.

Security firms generally agree that this type of monitoring is useful because many police forces won't respond to a bell-only alarm, unless there is also first-hand evidence of a crime being committed. Usually, two or more alarm sensors have to be activated in sequence before the police will attend, although all incidents are prioritised in terms of their nature and the resources available.

It is very common for such a contract to include a fee for compulsory maintenance of the alarm system in an effort to reduce the number of unnecessary call-outs. Persistent false alarms – four in 12 months for Scotland, compared with three for the rest of the UK – will result in the owner being struck off the police register and no response provided. It is possible to get reconnected by proving that the problems were rectified within three months but you will still have to pay for monitoring during this time.

Maintenance

Regular, professional maintenance of your system is likely to be a wise investment, as any defects will be spotted and fixed as soon as possible, reducing the likelihood of false alarms and possibly offering a route to compensation if something goes wrong.