- Alarms

Before you decide to get an alarm, make sure that your door and window locks are secure -these are the  best defence against burglars.

Don't sign up for anything on impulse. Some door-step sellers try to frighten people into buying their systems by telling scare stories of violent crimes. Don't be fooled - their  systems are usually over-priced and ineffective.

How to make sure you  get a good deal

  1. Get at least three written quotes from different companies. This will help you decide what system will suit your home best. The police do not recommend alarm installers but they have to be a member of one of the following organisations to provide a monitored system (see below):

    NACOSS (National Approval Council for Security Systems) 01623 637512
    SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board) 0191 296 324
    AISC (Alarms Inspectorate and Security Council Ltd) 01704 500897

    Choose a firm registered with one of these or ask friends and neighbours    to recommend one.

  2. Choose the best type of system for your needs. There are two types:
    Bell only - an internal and/or external alarm;
    Monitored - linked to a monitoring station which contacts the police.

  3. Decide whether to rent or buy. Renting is usually cheaper in the short-term but may tie you in to an expensive long-term maintenance contract. If you have a dispute with the company they can remove the equipment. If you buy you can usually choose any company you like to maintain the system

  4. Burglar alarms should be serviced regularly look around for the best maintenance contract. Some of the paperwork is complicated and badly written with a lot of small print make sure you can understand exactly what it covers. Try to find a contract which is renewable annually, or at most every 2 years. Check what is covered and any charges labour, parts, call-out fees (particularly outside normal working hours).

  5. Check that your insurance company is happy with the type of system you want to install and the maintenance contract

  6. If you would like help and guidance with your home security contact the Crime Prevention Officer at your local police station.

  7. The Consumers' Association has produced a book "The Which? Guide to Home Safety and Security". This is available in libraries.

  8. If you have problems with the service a security company provides contact the Trading Standards Advice Centre for confidential and unbiased advice.

For Further Information

Nottinghamshire County Council Trading Standards Advice Centres offer unbiased and friendly advice to both consumers and traders.

If you need help or just want some general advice, why not call in to your local centre, or telephone the advice line on 0845 050 5200.

Trading Standards
4th Floor
County Hall
West Bridgford
Nottingham
NG2 7QP

Trading Standards
17B The Square
Retford
Nottinghamshire
DN22 6DB

Minicom: 0115 977 2395

E-mail: tsadvice@nottscc.gov.uk

To make a consumer complaint online: www.consumercomplaints.org.uk