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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find some of the most common questions we get asked. If you can’t find what you’re looking for here the feel free to call us on 0800 612 9799 (free from a landline) or 0345 833 5543 (landline rate from a mobile) or contact us via our enquiry form.

Alarms

Q: Do you fit third party equipment?
A: No we don’t. We often get enquiries from people who have sourced burglar alarm or CCTV systems elsewhere and then need an engineer to install it. We never take on this kind of job as we need to be able to guarantee the quality of the equipment that we work with. Because of the trade rates that we buy equipment in for and our competitive prices you wouldn’t be able to source a like for like system elsewhere anyway.

Q: Do you offer burglar alarm systems on a ‘supply only’ basis?
A: No we don’t. We offer a complete service including the supply of equipment and installation. This allows us to guarantee the quality of the system that you receive.

Q: Can you take on alarms that have been installed by other firms?
A: Yes we can, we can take over the servicing of any existing equipment subject to its state of repair.

Q: Can you repair alarms that have been installed by other firms?
A: Yes we can although if it was beyond repair or un-economical to repair we would suggest a replacement system, which we can also offer.

Q: Can you add extra sensors to existing alarm systems?
A: You may need additional sensors if you extend your property or wish to upgrade your system. We can usually do this although it is dependent on the system itself and its capabilities for such an upgrade. We would be able to advise you on this.

Q: Do you offer remote repairs?
A: We can often talk you through re-setting your system or overcoming basic faults over the phone if you are a customer. If we can save you the expense of an engineer visit then we will. 

Q: How often should you service a burglar alarm?
A: We generally recommend an annual service for domestic burglar alarms. This is particularly the case for wireless systems that require a battery change periodically. See here for more details on the importance of a service contract. Some commercial systems may require more frequent servicing eg policed alarms. You will be advised of this from the outset.

Q: How do I know when my service is due?
A: If you are in our system we will remind you when your service is due. If we have not serviced your system before and you don’t know when it was last serviced it would be a good idea to have a service done and then you will be reminded each year.

Q: Is an annual burglar alarm service really necessary?
A: We do recommend it. You can read more about it here.

Q: Do you offer alarm monitoring?
A: Yes we do. We offer several options for monitoring, including BT Redcare and CSL Dualcom

 

Q: Can electricians install burglar alarm systems?
A: Yes, in theory. We would always recommend using a specialist security engineer to install an alarm system because they will be able to maximise the potential of that system much better. For further details about this click here.

Q: Why does my alarm go off when we have a power cut?
A: There could be a number of reasons but the most likely reason is that the battery is dead. This means that when the power supply is cut, there is no back up in place. If this is the case you need to have it replaced by an alarm engineer (and a service is probably a good idea).

Q: I have a cat. Will it set off the burglar alarm when I go out?

A: It may do if you have standard PIR sensors (the units in each room that detect movement). However, you can have pet sensors fitted that are specifically designed for homes with animals. These recognise a smaller mass and therefore don’t activate the alarm.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

 

Q: What is a monitored alarm?
A: A monitored alarm is a burglar alarm that is connected to an alarm monitoring centre. If the alarm is triggered the ARC will respond in a manner appropriate to the type of monitoring you have. This can range from letting you know to informing the police or a guard response. If you have Redcare, a signal will be continuously sent down the line and pick up on any breaks to the phone line which could indicate foul play. See here for further details.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

 

Q: Do burglar alarms really deter burglars?
A: The evidence suggests that 9 out of 10 burglars would choose a home without a security system over one with one. They would always weigh up the risk of any break-in and would prefer to tackle a home that did not carry the risk of an audible alarm. See this article for further information.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

 

Q: Can I alarm my garage or out buildings?
A: Yes, we can usually add additional sensors and door contacts to out buildings and garages on your home alarm system or can even install an independent system, separate to your home alarm. For more information on securing out-buildings see our recent blog.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

 

Q: Which is better; wired or wireless alarm systems?
A: Each type of alarm has its own advantages so it depends on what you want. For example, a wireless alarm causes less disruption, is more flexible and is cheaper to install. A wired system is cheaper to maintain. For a full run down of all the advantages of each system see our blog.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

Q: Can I change the code on my burglar alarm?
A: Yes, if you are one of our customers we can usually talk you through the process over the phone.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

Q: Can I be notified if my alarm if my alarm goes off when I’m away?
A: If your system has a speech dialler then it can be set up to call or text your phone to let you know that the alarm has been triggered. If you have a monitoring contract, the alarm receiving centre would be notified and they, depending on the type of contract you have, could notify your nominated contact(s), the police or even a guard response.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

CCTV

Q: Can you add extra cameras to existing CCTV systems?
A: This would depend on the system itself but we would be able to advise you on this. Call us on 01924 371941 to discuss further.

Q: Is CCTV suitable for domestic properties?
A: It could be, dependent on a few factors. You can read more about that here.

Q: Do you offer CCTV systems on a ‘supply only’ basis?
A: No we don’t. We offer a complete service including the supply of equipment and installation. This allows us to guarantee the quality of the system that you receive.

Q: Can you offer remote access to a CCTV system?
A: Yes we can, depending on the capabilities of the system you choose. For example, we can set up the system so you can access it from a remote device such as a mobile phone.

Q: Can smart home security cameras work with overseas cell phones?
A: Yes they can. Most systems have remote access capability so you should be able to log in via the internet and view on a smartphone, tablet or computer. One thing to be wary of though is if you were accessing over 3G or 4G rather than WiFi this could potentially lead to excessive data charges from your provider, depending on your allowances.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

Q: Are there any restrictions on where I can position my CCTV cameras on my property?
A: As you would imagine with this kind of system, there are restrictions on how you use it because of privacy laws. Cameras must be positioned on your own property and must only monitor your own property. Some systems may require planning permission but we can advise on this. You should also display some notices stating that a CCTV system is in operation. See here for more information.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

Locks

Q: Can you cut car keys?
A: We do cut most car keys but we don’t programme the central locking element. We usually need to see the key so that we can advise you so the best thing would be to bring the key into our security shop in Wakefield.

Q: Can you gain access to locks without causing damage?
A: Yes, in the majority of cases we can. We are qualified locksmiths and members of the Master Locksmiths Association. If for some reason it was not possible to access the lock without causing damage we would advise you of this prior to starting any work.

Q: Is there any way to make a garden safer than just a standard padlock?
A: A padlock would only allow you to lock a gate from one side whereas something like a key lock, or even a keypad operated lock, would allow you to lock from both sides, whether you were in or out. Locks can be fitted to out-buildings or garages to protect their contents, or even connected up to your burglar alarm. We’d also recommend some motion-triggered security lighting. Other measures could be to keep hedges trimmed (so they don’t conceal any would-be intruder) or a gravel path that would make a noise underfoot. Try not to leave items accessible that can be used to break into the house such as tools, ladders and garden furniture.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

 

Q: What is the best kind of lock for a front door?
A: The best kind of front door lock is a break-secure euro-cylinder lock. Rated as TS007 3-star and SS312 Sold Secure Diamond accredited locks, they offer the best protection against lock snapping.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

Q: Do you feel that a Patlock is useful on patio (or French) doors? Mentioned on a BBC programme, they look good but would you also recommend alongside a full house alarm system?
A: Something like a Patlock can be useful as a visual deterrent, however remember that the glass could still potentially be smashed and allow the burglar to gain entry without having to get through the lock. A burglar alarm would of course detect this or any other kind of entry as long as it was set so provides much better security than the lock alone.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

General Security

Q: Do you offer systems on a ‘supply only’ basis?
A: No we don’t. We offer a complete service including the supply of equipment and installation. This allows us to guarantee the quality of the system that you receive.

Q: What geographic area do you cover?
A: We cover the whole of Yorkshire. We also offer national contracts for larger, multi-sited businesses.

Q: Do you offer security services for businesses?
A: Yes we do. We are very experienced in all areas of business security including intruder alarms, CCTV, fire alarms, locksmiths, door entry and safe engineering.

Q: Do you offer security services for homes?
A: Yes we do. We are very experienced in all areas of home security including intruder alarms, CCTV, locksmiths, door entry and safe engineering.

Q: What regulatory bodies are you registered with?
A: We are members of the Master Locksmith Association (MLA), an Approved Member of the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB) and Safe Contractor registered. We also conform to all the relevant British and EU Standards.

Q: Do you offer free quotes?
A: We do. We will either come out and do a site survey or often we can quote for standard systems without the need to visit. Quotes are provided at no expense and without obligation.

Q: Do you offer security advice?
A: Yes we do. We’re always happy to provide advice over the phone or in our security shop to help you make the best choices for your security. We always have a fully qualified engineer on site to give you the benefit of their experience.

Q: Do you offer demonstrations of security systems and equipment?
A: Yes. We have a range of equipment at our security shop, including CCTV, alarm systems and safes, which are available for demo before you buy.

Q: Do you offer static guarding?
A: We can offer static guards and guard response through our preferred partners as part of a wider security solution. See here for further details.

Q: Do you vet your security engineers?
A: Yes we do. All our engineers are fully qualified and CRB checked each year.

Q: What are your opening times?
A: The office and security shop is open 8.30-5.00 Monday – Friday. We also offer a 24 hour emergency call out service.

Q: Do you offer a 24 hour call out service?
A: Yes we do. Out of office hours phone calls are re-directed to the on call engineer.

Q: Is the security shop in Wakefield to the public?
A: Yes it is. Simply call in Monday – Friday 8.30-5.00. No appointment necessary.

Q: Where is the security shop?
A: The security shop is on Roundwood Industrial Estate near junction 40 of the M1. From the motorway head towards Wakefield, going through the traffic lights. After the Jet petrol station on the right you will see Roundwood Industrial Estate, also on the right. If you are travelling from Wakefield down the A638 Dewsbury Road head towards the M1 roundabout and take a left into Roundwood Industrial estate just before the Jet petrol station. We are the second unit on your right as you turn in. See our location map.

Q: Have you won any awards?
A: We have won the Eaton Smith Business of the Month and made the shortlist for the Wakefield District Business Awards SME Business of the Year and Employee of the Year 2013. MD Simon Cook was named in the Yorkshire Business Insider 42 Under 42 Awards 2014.

Q: What security measures will help to reduce home insurance premiums?
A: Insurers will take a number of security measures into account when calculating your premium. A burglar alarm is the main one. It will need to be professionally maintained to count and you may need to agree that it is always set when the house is unoccupied. Your door and window locks will also make a difference. Anti-snap euro cylinders are generally considered the best and they may take a safe into account if it has a recognised security rating. For further information see our blog.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

Q: What is the most common type of burglary?
A: 62% of burglaries happen at night under cover of darkness so security lighting, setting your alarm downstairs when you go to bed and making sure you lock up are all advisable. 30% of burglaries are ‘insecure’ burglaries where doors or windows have been left unlocked. These are often opportunistic and usually target the most vulnerable. See our blog for more details.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]

Q: I’ve already been burgled previously. How likely is it to happen again?
A: Statistically speaking, 1 in 11 houses burgled will be burgled again within a 6 year period. For further details about this research see our recent blog.
[Question posed during National Home Security Month 2015]