Will having a burglar alarm lower my insurance premium?
Unfortunately, there’s no guarantee that installing an alarm will reduce the cost of your home insurance policy. This will vary between insurance providers. You’ll be asked what kind of security is in place when you buy insurance, as this could impact the cost of your premium. But other factors are also taken into consideration, so there’s no evidence that having an alarm can directly cut your costs.
And even if your premium is reduced, it might not offset the cost of installing and maintaining your alarm. But an alarm still provides protection and peace of mind, so cost isn’t the only factor to consider.
Should I get a burglar alarm for my home?
Research shows that you’re far less likely to be burgled if you have a decent alarm system. Homes without security are five times more likely to be burgled than those with simple security measures in place. Burglars look for weaknesses in the security of a property and will move on to a home that is less well-protected to minimise risks to themselves.
So, installing an alarm could be a win-win. Not only are you lowering the chance of being burgled, it might cut your insurance premiums too (if you’re lucky).
What type of burglar alarm should I get?
There are several different types of home alarm system you can use to protect your home. You should find an alarm system that has been approved by the National Approval Council for Security Systems (NACOSS), which is part of the National Security Inspectorate (NSI).
Monitored alarm system
A monitored alarm system involves paying a private security company to monitor your system 24 hours a day. It usually costs more but could offer the biggest security benefits.
If your alarm goes off, the company will call and check everything’s in order. You can also set up an arrangement whereby if you don’t answer, the company will call one of your nominated keyholders, such as a relative or neighbour.
Bells-only alarm
A traditional ‘bells-only’ alarm is also known as an audible-only alarm. A siren will sound for 20 minutes if the system is triggered. But the police will only attend if they have evidence that a crime is taking place, such as an eyewitness report. False alarms are common in residential areas, so there’s always a worry that your neighbours may ignore your alarm.
Smart home security system
The latest burglar alarms are smart home hubs that contact you via your phone when they sense an intruder. These can be expensive but are often smaller and more stylish than traditional burglar alarms. They can also be easier to install, and you can program them to deter burglars by turning on the lights or radio. See more on security systems.
The type of alarm you choose will depend on your budget and how involved you want to be. Are you happy with an external company monitoring the security of your home, or would you prefer to be in charge from your phone? How worried you are about being burgled could be a deciding factor in your choice.
Obviously, you don’t need to buy an alarm but if you’re thinking about it, have a look at the pros, cons and costs of each different type. While there are no guarantees your insurance premium will fall as a result, it might help to show your insurance provider that having an alarm could lower your risk of being burgled.
Am I insured if I install a burglar alarm myself?
This really depends on the type of alarm you have and your DIY abilities. Some alarms, such as smart doorbells or cameras, are designed so anyone can install them, and there’s no need to pay for someone to do the job.
However, your insurance provider may want proof that your alarm has been certified by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) or the Security Systems & Alarm Inspection Boards (SSAIB), so you should consider having your alarm installed by a certified professional.
Do I have to tell my home insurance provider I have a burglar alarm?
Yes, if you have a burglar alarm, it’s well worth telling your insurance provider. You could be rewarded with a discount, because an alarm acts as a deterrent to burglars.
However, you should only tell them if you use the alarm. If you tell your insurance provider you have a burglar alarm, but never use it, an insurance claim for burglary is likely to be rejected.
What else do I need to know?
Be accurate with your insurance provider – saying you have a burglar alarm when you don’t could mean your policy is invalidated or your claim rejected
If you have an alarm, use it – if you forget to set the alarm and are burgled that day, it might mean your claim is rejected or only paid in part
Don’t use a dummy alarm – some people buy dummy alarms thinking they will scare off potential burglars. But having a dummy alarm will not reduce your insurance premium
If you’ve recently been burgled there’s a chance you may be burgled again unless you improve your security. The burglar is now familiar with your property and might wait a few weeks for you to replace the stolen items, then target your home for a second time – unless you make it harder for them.
Compare home insurance with us and see how much you could save with an approved burglar alarm.
What other home security options are there?
While a burglar alarm is a great security measure for your home, there are other ways homeowners can improve the level of security in their home:
Security lights – installing an outdoor security light with a motion sensor is a great way to deter thieves. They don’t want to be under the spotlight.
Security cameras – modern security camera systems are WiFi connected, allowing you to keep an eye on your home through your smartphone while you’re out and about.
Doorbell cameras – these are increasingly popular. They’re connected to your phone and are easy to install. They’re a relatively cheap option too.
Don’t feel like any of these are alternatives to a burglar alarm. When it comes to home security, more is usually better. Using a combination of these devices will improve your home security and deter potential thieves.
You can find more home security tips here.
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As well as writing for Churchill and Privilege insurance websites, Karen’s CV includes working with M&S, Debenhams, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and John Lewis. With over 20 years of editorial experience for big household names she leads a talented content team with a focus on simplifying personal finance for everybody.
Stephen Maunder is an experienced personal finance editor, having spent more than a decade working for consumer print and online titles. He won several industry awards for his personal finance features at Which?, before becoming Deputy Editor at Compare the Market.
Amy helps make sure you get the best value when choosing insurance. Thanks to more than four years’ experience at Compare the Market, she understands what people look for, working closely with insurance providers to offer you deals and services that are fair, easy to understand and right for your needs.
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