What is NSI approval?
NSI (National Security Inspectorate) is an independent UKAS-accredited certification body for the security industry. Companies approved by NSI are audited at least annually against the relevant British Standards, confirming that their installations, documentation and business processes meet the required standard.
What is SSAIB approval?
SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board) is the other major approval body recognised by UK insurers and the police. SSAIB-approved companies are subject to the same rigorous annual audits as NSI companies. Both carry equal weight for insurance and police-response purposes.
Does NSI/SSAIB approval affect my insurance?
Yes. Most UK home and business insurance policies offer a premium reduction — typically 5–15% — for alarms installed by an NSI or SSAIB-approved company. Some insurers require NSI/SSAIB approval as a condition of cover rather than just a discount. Always check your policy wording before installation.
Does NSI/SSAIB approval affect police response?
Yes. The Metropolitan Police Alarm Policy (and equivalent policies in other forces) only grants police response to alarms that are monitored through an NSI or SSAIB-approved alarm receiving centre. An unmonitored alarm or an alarm monitored by a non-approved centre does not qualify for police response.
How do I verify that an installer is genuinely approved?
Go to the NSI website (nsi.org.uk) or SSAIB website (ssaib.org) and use the 'Find a Company' search tool. Enter the company name and check that their approval is current and covers the category of work (Intruder Alarms, Fire Alarms, CCTV) that you need. Do not rely on logos on a website — verify directly with the approval body.
Is NSI/SSAIB approval compulsory?
No — the security industry is not regulated by law in the UK. Any person can legally install an alarm without any qualification or approval. This is why it is so important for consumers to insist on NSI or SSAIB-approved companies and verify approval independently.
Get a Quote from Sure Alarms — NSI/SSAIB Approved
Free survey. Written quote. 10-year warranty. Installation to BS EN 50131.