Contact Details

Remember to keep your contact details updated at your security company. Make sure they have alternative contact details, such as those of your neighbours or family/friends. They should also be aware of the contact details of a keyholder should you be away.

Passwords & Challenge Codes

Your challenge code or password is of crucial importance.

If you suspect that someone has discovered your code, contact your security company to change it immediately. Use a word that is easy for you and your family to remember. You may also wish to change the code periodically. And please don't scratch the code onto your keypad!

Ensure that your disarm codes are also not written down in an easy-to-find location.

Testing

Test your alarm system regularly. Some insurance policies may insist that you test the system periodically - make sure that you're aware of and adhere to the requirements otherwise your claim could be rejected. All tests are logged at the security company so it is easy for the insurers to check when the system was last tested.

To test, phone the security company's control room and inform them that you're testing the system. If in doubt about how to test, ask the security company.

Tests should be performed at least monthly, if not more often.

Also test the system after a power failure or telephone line disconnection or after any home maintenance which may have affected the system.

Maintenance

If you have outdoor beams or detectors, plants and other movable objects may cause false alarms. Ensure that plants are cut back and other objects are secured properly. Be aware that the security company may bill you for false alarm call-outs.

Use It!

Make sure you arm the alarm system, even if you're out for five minutes. Also, ensure that perimiter alarms and areas which are not used at night are armed even when you're at home.

Need Help?

We are happy to discuss security requirements and implications but note that we are not experts in this field and so cannot give professional advice. However, should you have any questions or are unhappy with your security company, we will attempt to provide an answer or refer you to a security professional.

Where possible, we will publish questions and answers on this page for the benefit of all residents. So, please email us your questions.