Security systems can be monitored by a professional control room 24/7 or managed by you via app. We compare the two approaches.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Monitored | Unmonitored |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £30-£50/month | Free or app-only |
| Response | Police called automatically | You must call police |
| Availability | 24/7/365 | Your availability |
| Insurance Discount | Up to 20% | 0-10% |
| False Alarms | Control room verifies | All trigger response |
Monitored Alarms
Cost: £10-£40 per month | Police Response Time: 30-60 minutes
How It Works: When alarm triggers, monitoring control room is alerted. They attempt to contact you. If you don’t confirm it’s a false alarm, they call police. Standard response.
Advantages: Professional response, insurance discounts (up to 20%), 24/7 monitoring, reduces false alarm dispatch
Disadvantages: Monthly cost, contract lock-in (12-24 months typical), control room may not reach you
Best For: High-value homes, those wanting peace of mind, insurance savings offset monthly cost
Unmonitored Alarms
Cost: £0-£20 per month (app only) | Response: Your responsibility
How It Works: When alarm triggers, you’re alerted via app or phone. You review camera footage and call police if needed.
Advantages: No monitoring fees, full control, no contract lock-in, flexibility
Disadvantages: Your responsibility to respond, police may treat as non-priority, no guaranteed response, limited insurance discount
Best For: Tech-savvy users, those with backup (neighbours, family), properties in remote areas
Insurance Discounts
Monitored Alarms: 15-20% discount common from most insurers
Unmonitored Alarms: 0-10% discount, must meet certain specifications
Example: £600/year home insurance with 20% monitored discount = £120 savings annually. At £40/month monitoring cost, it’s a net £120 saving.
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