With dozens of fire and security companies in London, it can be hard to know who to trust. Here's what to look for — and the red flags to avoid.
Why It Matters Who Installs Your System
A fire alarm or intruder alarm installed incorrectly doesn't just waste money — it creates a false sense of security. Detectors in the wrong locations miss fires. An uncertified alarm system may invalidate your insurance. A poorly configured intruder alarm triggers so many false activations that the police withdraw their response.
Choosing the right company isn't about finding the lowest price. It's about finding engineers you can trust, who will stand behind their work long after installation day.
1. Check Their Accreditations
Accreditations are the single most reliable way to verify that a fire and security company meets recognised industry standards. The key ones to look for in the UK:
- SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board) — Independent third-party inspection body covering intruder alarms, CCTV, and fire alarms. SSAIB approval is required for police-response alarm systems and is respected by all major insurers.
- NSI (National Security Inspectorate) — Equivalent to SSAIB; both are recognised by the UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service).
- BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) — Third-party certification specifically for fire protection companies. BAFE registration demonstrates compliance with British Standards for fire alarm design, installation, and maintenance.
- SIA Approved Contractor Scheme — For companies providing security guarding, door supervision, and related services.
- Safe Contractor / CHAS — Health and safety accreditations that demonstrate the company operates safe working practices.
2. Look for Real Experience
Ask how long the company has been trading and what types of properties they've worked on. A company with 20+ years of continuous operation in London — like Security Red Alert — has seen every type of installation challenge and has built long-term relationships with clients who come back for servicing, upgrades, and new properties.
Be wary of newly registered companies or sole traders who can't provide evidence of previous work. Ask for references from similar properties.
3. Read the Reviews
Google reviews are the most honest indicator of how a company actually behaves with real customers. Look for reviews that mention specific details — the engineer's name, the type of system, how problems were handled — rather than generic five-star ratings.
Also check how the company responds to any negative reviews. A professional company addresses complaints openly and constructively.
4. Ask About After-Care and Servicing
Installation day is just the beginning. Fire alarms need annual or six-monthly servicing to stay compliant. Intruder alarms need periodic checks. Cameras need lens cleaning and firmware updates. A good security company offers ongoing maintenance contracts, a phone line you can actually reach out of hours, and priority attendance when something fails.
Before signing, ask: What is your response time for emergency callouts? Do you offer a service contract? What happens if a component fails within the first year?
5. Get At Least Two Quotes — But Don't Just Choose the Cheapest
It's always sensible to compare quotes. But if one quote is significantly cheaper than the others, ask why. Are they using lower-grade components? Cutting corners on cable routing? Not providing certification on completion?
The cheapest installation often becomes the most expensive over time — through call-outs, repairs, replacements, and the cost of a failed inspection.
6. Look for Local Knowledge
A London-based fire and security company with experience across the capital's diverse range of properties — Victorian terraces, converted flats, purpose-built blocks, commercial premises — will bring practical knowledge that a national call-centre operation simply can't match.
Security Red Alert has been installing and servicing fire and security systems across all 32 London boroughs for over 20 years. We're SSAIB accredited for intruder alarms, and committed to honest, no-pressure service from first enquiry to ongoing maintenance.
Call us on 020 8946 5567 or use our contact form to arrange a free site survey.
Need help with this in London?
Security Red Alert covers all 32 London boroughs from our Summerstown SW17 office. Explore our Residential Security, Commercial Security and Get a Free Quote services, or call 020 8946 5567 for a free survey.