How Much Does a Burglar Alarm Cost in 2026? A UK Homeowner's Guide

If you are considering a new burglar alarm, one of the first questions is usually simple: how much is it going to cost?

The honest answer is that the price depends on the size of the property, how many doors and rooms you want to protect, whether you want perimeter detection, cameras or a video doorbell, and whether you want app monitoring. A good installer should be able to explain those choices clearly rather than simply sell you the biggest package available.

At Midland Alarm Services East, our current example home alarm packages start from £750, with larger packages from £995 and £1,195. All packages are customisable, because a two-bedroom terrace in Rugby does not need the same system as a large detached home with a garage, side access and several rear doors.

What affects the price of a burglar alarm?

The biggest factor is the amount of protection required. A basic professional system will normally include a control hub, keypad, external bell box, a contact on an entry door and movement detectors. From there, the system can be expanded with extra movement sensors, shock sensors, camera PIRs, door contacts, garage protection, key fobs or a video doorbell.

The layout of the property matters too. A home with one obvious rear entrance may be straightforward to protect. A property with bi-fold doors, French doors, several ground-floor windows and a detached garage may benefit from more perimeter devices. That is why we prefer to quote around the property rather than treat every house as identical.

Basic detection vs perimeter protection

Traditional alarms often rely heavily on internal movement sensors. They are useful, but they generally detect activity after someone has entered the property.

Perimeter protection adds devices such as shock sensors or opening contacts to vulnerable doors and windows. These can detect an attempted forced entry or a door being opened, depending on the device and configuration.

For many homeowners, this is worth considering because the goal is not merely to make a noise after a burglary has started. It is to make the property harder to target and give the earliest practical warning.

Do wireless alarms cost more?

Modern professional wireless alarm systems are often very competitive once installation time and cabling are considered. Wireless technology also allows an installer to protect a finished home without chasing cables into walls throughout the property. That can make installation cleaner and less disruptive, particularly in decorated homes.

Wireless does not mean “DIY”. A professionally designed wireless alarm still needs sensible device placement, correct programming, reliable radio communication, tamper protection and proper commissioning.

Midland Alarm Services East installs HKC wireless security equipment because it gives us a flexible platform for alarms, perimeter protection, image verification and remote app control.

What about app monitoring?

Many modern homeowners want to know what is happening when they are away from the property. Our SecureComm monitoring starts from £14.95 per month. It can provide alarm notifications and remote control through a smartphone, subject to the system and service selected. This is different from simply having an external siren. If the alarm activates while you are at work or away, the app can alert you directly. Some homeowners prefer a traditional audible-only alarm, while others value remote notifications. A good quotation should make the ongoing costs clear before you commit.

How much should installation cost?

Be careful about comparing quotes only by the number at the bottom.

Two systems described as “a 10-piece alarm” may be very different in equipment quality, design, support and installation. You should ask what brand is being installed, who owns the equipment, whether there is a long contract, what happens if you cancel monitoring, and what aftercare is included.

Professional installation should include a survey or design discussion, installation of the equipment, programming, testing, demonstration and handover.

At Midland Alarm Services East, the system belongs to the customer. We focus on professional installation, straightforward pricing and ongoing local support rather than tying customers into lengthy contracts.

Is a cheaper alarm always better value?

Not necessarily. A very cheap system can be perfectly adequate for some situations, but cost should be considered over the life of the system. Replacement batteries, servicing, subscriptions, repairs and restrictions around cancelling a service can all affect the real cost.

It is also worth thinking about how you will actually use the system. An alarm that is awkward to set, regularly false alarms or does not cover the areas you are worried about may end up being left switched off. Good security should be easy enough to become part of your routine.

What would we recommend for a typical home?

For many family homes, we would begin by looking at the front and rear entry points, ground-floor circulation areas and any particularly vulnerable doors or windows. From there, we decide whether additional shock detection, a camera PIR, garage protection or a video doorbell adds genuine value.

The answer is different for every house, which is why we offer a free security consultation rather than asking customers to guess how many sensors they need.

Burglar alarm installation in Rugby, Leicester, Lutterworth and Northampton

Midland Alarm Services East installs burglar alarms for homeowners across Rugby, Leicester, Lutterworth, Northampton and surrounding areas.

If you are comparing burglar alarm prices, the most useful next step is to compare the level of protection rather than just the headline cost. We can look at your property, explain the options and provide a no-obligation quotation based on what you actually need.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a basic home alarm from Midland Alarm East?

Our current Home Secure Essentials package is advertised from £750, with larger packages from £995 and £1,195. Final cost depends on the property and equipment selected.

Do I have to pay a monthly fee?

Not simply to own the alarm. Optional SecureComm app monitoring is available from £14.95 per month.

Can I add more sensors later?

Yes. One advantage of a well-designed wireless system is that it can usually be expanded as your needs change.

How long does installation take?

Many domestic alarm installations can be completed within a few hours, although larger or more complex properties can take longer.

Ready for a quotation?

If you would like straightforward advice on the right level of protection for your home, contact Midland Alarm Services East on 01788 708 035 or request a free security consultation through our website.