Looking for the best burglar alarm? Here's what actually matters
Glossy brochures and flashy apps are easy to compare. The things that actually decide whether an alarm protects you well - verification, contracts, ownership, certification - are easy to miss. Here's a straightforward checklist to run through before you buy.
Six things worth comparing, whoever you buy from
None of this is specific to any one brand - it's the same checklist we'd suggest running through whichever company you end up choosing.
1. Verification method
Does the system just dial an automated call to a key holder, or does it offer real two-way audio (or video) verification with a live operator? Genuine verification is the difference between a guess and a confirmed break-in.
2. Contract length & notice period
Shorter contracts are generally more flexible and put more pressure on the provider to keep earning your business. Always check the notice period and any auto-renewal clause before signing anything.
3. Equipment ownership vs rental
Do you own the hardware outright once it's installed, or are you renting it indefinitely as part of the monthly fee? Renting can mean starting from scratch (and losing the kit) if you ever want to switch provider.
4. Certification
Is the installer, and separately the monitoring centre (ARC), NSI or SSAIB certified? This matters for both build quality and for your insurer - an uncertified installation can be harder to justify on a claim.
5. System grade vs your insurance requirements
Alarm systems are built to different security 'grades' - and some insurers (and higher-risk properties) specify a minimum grade. Check what your policy actually requires before you buy, not after.
6. Ongoing support
Is 24/7 technical support included as standard, or is it a paid extra bolted on later? Ask what happens - and what it costs - if a sensor fails or the app stops connecting six months after installation.
Want to run your current alarm through this checklist?
Whether you're comparing quotes or already have a system, the AMCO team can talk you through where it stands on verification, contract terms and certification.
How our own systems measure up
We built this checklist because it's the same set of questions we'd want answered as a customer. AMCO's monitored alarms are SSAIB certified, come with genuine LiveTalk audio-response verification, and are sold without lengthy lock-in contracts.
- SSAIB accredited installation & monitoring (ARC)
- LiveTalk two-way audio verification, not just an auto-dialler
- No onerous lengthy contracts
- 24/7 technical support included
Want the fuller picture?
This page is a quick checklist. For AMCO's complete buying guide and a full walkthrough of our own alarm system, see:
Frequently asked questions
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Run any quote you've been given through this checklist - or let AMCO give you one that already ticks every box.
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