Trades · Updated 2026
Security alarm installation cost
Typical range£150–£4,000· Average wireless alarm system (3 bed, professionally installed)
Burglar alarm and CCTV installation prices for 2025. In the UK, expect to pay between £150 and £4,000, with the typical project around £700 (average wireless alarm system (3 bed, professionally installed)). Regional variation, specification tier and site access conditions all shift the final quote.
Quick answer: Security alarm installation cost in the UK typically costs between £150 and £4,000 (Average wireless alarm system (3 bed, professionally installed)). London and the South East run 20–35% above this range; the North, Wales and most of Scotland sit 5–15% below.
Homeowners researching this typically also price up front door replacement cost and garage door cost. For wider context, browse our bathroom pricing, kitchen pricing and boiler & heating costs.
Cost table
Indicative price ranges (UK, GBP)
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Basic wireless alarm (DIY) — Self-install, app-controlled | £150–£400 |
Professional wireless alarm — NSI/SSAIB-approved installer, 3–5 zones | £500–£1,000 |
Grade 2 wired alarm (insurance-spec) — Hardwired, Police-response grade | £800–£2,000 |
CCTV system (4 cameras) — IP cameras, NVR, remote viewing | £600–£1,800 |
Alarm + CCTV combined — Integrated security system | £1,500–£4,000 |
Labour costs
Labour typically accounts for 45% of the total project cost in the UK.
Labour line items
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
NSI/SSAIB engineer (per day) | £250–£400/day |
Cabling (wired systems) | £100–£400 |
Control panel programming | £0–£0 |
Materials costs
Materials and fittings make up the remainder of the budget, with specification tier driving most of the variation.
Materials & fittings
| Item | Typical range (GBP) |
|---|---|
Wireless alarm kit (DIY) | £150–£350 |
Alarm control panel | £100–£500 |
PIR sensors (each) | £20–£80 |
CCTV camera (each) | £50–£300 |
NVR recorder | £80–£400 |
Factors affecting cost in the UK
- ·Region — London and the South East run 15–30% above national averages.
- ·Specification tier — premium materials and finishes can double the base cost.
- ·Access and site conditions — flats, restricted parking and listed buildings add time.
- ·Scope changes mid-project — late design decisions are the biggest cost overrun driver.
- ·Trade availability — quotes rise 10–20% in peak spring and summer months.
Ways to reduce cost
- ·Choose a wireless DIY system (Ring, SimpliSafe, Yale) over a wired pro install.
- ·Self-monitor via smartphone rather than paying for a 24/7 monitoring centre.
- ·Add cameras and sensors in phases rather than full coverage day one.
- ·Skip the bell box only if you can prove insurer-acceptable signage.
- ·Use an NSI or SSAIB-registered installer only if your insurer requires it.
Frequently asked questions
- Does a burglar alarm reduce home insurance?
- Yes — most home insurers offer discounts of 5–15% for having an alarm, and a higher discount (10–20%) for a professionally installed, monitored alarm that meets NSI/SSAIB Grade 2 or higher. Some insurers require an alarm for high-value contents.
- What is the difference between NSI and SSAIB?
- Both are UK security industry approval bodies. NSI (National Security Inspectorate) and SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board) are the two main accrediting bodies for alarm installers. Police response to alarms typically requires an NSI or SSAIB-approved installer.
- Are wireless alarms as good as wired?
- Modern wireless alarms (from brands like Texecom, Ajax, or Pyronix) are highly reliable and used in commercial premises. For most homes, a professionally installed wireless system is perfectly adequate and avoids the disruption of cabling.