What is alarm installer insurance?
Alarm installer insurance is a policy designed to protect businesses that install, maintain, and repair alarm systems. From accidental damage during an installation to liability claims, if an alarm fails at the wrong moment, this cover ensures you’re not left paying out of pocket.
The alarm industry covers a wide range of systems, including:
- Burglar alarms—Intruder alarms, motion sensors, and perimeter security.
- Fire alarms—Smoke detectors, heat sensors, and emergency call points.
- CCTV systems—Surveillance cameras and remote monitoring setups.
- Smart alarms—Internet-connected home security systems and mobile-controlled alarms.
Each system comes with its own set of risks, making tailored alarm installer insurance a must for professionals in the trade.
Public liability insurance
Public liability insurance covers injury or damage caused to third parties while carrying out your work. If a customer trips over your toolbox or you accidentally damage property during an installation, this policy covers legal fees and compensation costs.
Example: While installing a security system, you drill into a hidden water pipe, flooding a client’s property. Without alarm installer insurance, you’d be footing the bill.
Most alarm installers take out at least £1 million in public liability cover, but some commercial contracts may require higher limits.
Professional indemnity insurance
If you offer security advice, system design, or consultancy services, professional indemnity insurance is a must. It covers you against claims that your recommendations caused a financial loss.
Example: You advise a client on the best alarm system for their business, but it turns out to be unsuitable, leaving them with a break-in and financial losses. They take legal action, claiming negligence.
This cover ensures you won’t have to personally fund legal costs or compensation claims.
Employers liability insurance
If you have employees, you’re legally required to have employers' liability insurance. Employers' liability insurance covers claims if an employee is injured or becomes ill due to their work.
Example: An apprentice falls while installing a CCTV camera and suffers a back injury. They claim for medical costs and lost wages.
Without alarm installer insurance that includes employers' liability cover, you could face a hefty legal bill.
Tools & business equipment cover
Your tools are essential to your work, and they’re not cheap to replace. Tools and business equipment insurance protects them from theft, loss, or malicious damage.
Example: Someone breaks into your van overnight, making off with your drills, ladders, and specialist alarm programming tools. With tools & business equipment cover, you can replace them quickly and get back to work.
Commercial legal expenses
Business disputes happen. Whether it’s a contract disagreement or an issue with unpaid invoices, commercial legal expenses cover helps with the cost of hiring solicitors and taking legal action.
Example: A client refuses to pay after a completed installation, and you need to take legal steps to recover the debt. This cover helps with legal fees and court costs.
