Security Systems
How to select the best security system installer
Your home is one of the most valuable possessions that you will ever own during your lifetime, and the loved ones residing inside are priceless. This is why it is a common choice for many individuals to install a security system inside their residence for added protection and peace of mind.
A security system can alert authorities to break-ins, medical emergencies and fires, which can save lives. With this system having such an important function in your home, it is imperative that it is installed correctly.
Today, we are going to talk to you about some important things to consider when choosing an installer for your security system.
- Work Experience with security system installation
- Affiliations and accreditations
- Detailed written estimate for services
Taking the extra time to learn about your options for security system installation will ensure that you are getting top quality work and the protection that you value for your family and home.
Security System Installation Experience
There are many types of security systems that range from simplistic to high tech. Some systems may only include motion detector lights or a camera, meanwhile others are fully wired into your home’s electrical system and are remotely controlled by an offsite service. These systems can automatically alert emergency services when triggered.
With so many options for homes security, there are many tradesmen to choose from for installation. Some will be part of larger companies that deal with home security systems and installation as their sole business focus. Others may be electricians who understand the basics of these systems and offer services to install them.
When it comes down to selecting the right tradesman for the job, you will want to focus you search on finding someone who has vast experience installing the system you are planning on using for your residence. With options like lighting, wireless cameras, fire alarms and intercoms, you want to ensure that your installer has the know how to correctly put these elements in place.
One of the best ways to vet a tradesman’s experience and competence is to request references from past clients who have had similar work done. Also, researching online reviews can provide excellent insight into potential workers to employ.
Look into professional affiliations and work experience
There are no professional organisations that security system installers are required to join before they begin practicing their trade, however, there are multiple ones that they may voluntarily apply to. Some of these include:
● National Security Inspectorate (NSI)
● Security System and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB)
Both of these bodies are approved to operate under the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) and hold their members to standards required by police and fire departments.
Not every tradesman who touts themselves to be a security system installation expert will be a member of such a scheme, however, it is a good sign during your search. Those who hold membership in these types of organizations tend to take their professional installation work seriously.
When an installer put in a security system that is fitted to these organizational standards, often a certificate of compliance can be issued to you as the homeowner. This can assist you in lowering your insurance costs, which is never a bad thing.
In addition to having membership in the aforementioned professional bodies, installers can be approved specialists for installing specific types of security systems. Examples of these would be BPT, Risco and Pyronix.
One final important point to note is you need to know if your installer has the qualifications to self-certify and complete electrical work, such as added circuits, that may need done for a system installation. If they are not able to do this, an outside contractor will have to come in to issue an electrical installation certificate.
Always get detailed written estimates
We recommend always getting 3 estimates for identical work before choosing your tradesman. You should be detailed in what you are looking for, and make sure all estimates include materials, labour and VAT. Then, you are able to make the most informed choice for your installer.
We hope that you have found these tips helpful as you embark on your search for the best se