What makes an alarm 'smart'?
A smart alarm system connects to your home broadband and sends alerts via a dedicated app on your smartphone. Core features include: remote arm/disarm from anywhere in the world; push notification alerts when a detector is triggered; live CCTV clips sent to your phone when the alarm activates; and integration with smart home platforms (Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit).
Importantly, a smart alarm is not the same as a consumer-grade bell-box system bought from a DIY store. Professional smart alarm systems — like those installed by Sure Alarms — are still grade-rated to BS EN 50131 and can qualify for NSI/SSAIB-approved monitoring and insurance discounts. The 'smart' features are an addition to — not a replacement for — the underlying engineering standard.
Key features to look for
Dual-path signalling
Broadband + 4G SIM backup so the signal reaches the monitoring centre even if your internet is cut or your router is reset.
Grade 2 or Grade 3 rating
BS EN 50131 grades determine tamper resistance. Grade 2 covers most residential properties; Grade 3 is for higher-risk homes and commercial premises.
Pet-immune PIRs
Motion sensors that ignore animals up to 25kg (Grade 2 PIRs) or 38kg, preventing false alarms from pets.
Video verification
A camera-equipped PIR that sends a 10–30 second clip to the monitoring centre when triggered — dramatically reducing false police despatches.
Smart home integration
Works with Alexa, Google Home or Apple HomeKit to arm/disarm using voice commands or home/away routines.
Geofencing
The alarm automatically arms when your phone leaves a set geographic boundary and disarms when you return — no more forgotten arm-ons.
Smart alarms vs DIY systems
Consumer systems (Ring, Abode, SimpliSafe) are easy to self-install but are not grade-rated, do not qualify for NSI/SSAIB-approved monitoring and may not satisfy your insurer. Professionally installed smart alarms cost more upfront but provide insurance compliance, a commissioning certificate and a 10-year warranty that DIY systems cannot match.
How much does a smart alarm cost?
A professionally installed smart alarm for a 3-bed home typically costs £595–£895 including installation and a 12-month service plan. See our full alarm costs guide for a detailed breakdown by property size.
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