Home security & home insurance

How Home Security Affects Insurance Rates

Home security plays a big part in how safe your home is — and it can sometimes influence what you pay for home insurance. Insurers look at risk, and a well-secured property is generally seen as less likely to face theft or damage.

Strong locks, alarms, cameras and outdoor lighting can help reduce the chance of a break-in. They also provide reassurance for you and make it easier to prevent losses before they happen.

Key points:

• Home security reduces the risk of theft or loss.
• Insurers sometimes consider security when calculating premiums, but savings are not guaranteed.
• Your security must meet any requirements set out in your policy documents.
• Installing new devices doesn’t automatically lower your price — but it can make your home harder to target.

What Is Home Security?

Home security covers the measures you use to protect your home from forced entry, theft or damage. These range from simple options like British Standard door locks and window locks, through to advanced systems like alarms, CCTV and smart home monitoring.

For insurance purposes, “home security” often includes:

• Locks (e.g., BS 3621 deadlocks, multipoint locking systems)
• Key-operated window locks
• Alarms (bells-only or monitored)
• CCTV or smart cameras
• Outdoor security lighting
• Smart locks and sensors
• Physical barriers (gates, fences, secure outbuildings)

Insurers use this information because it helps them gauge risk. If your locks or alarm don’t meet the minimum requirements stated in your policy, a theft claim may be handled differently. That’s why accurate information is essential when you buy or renew cover.

From 1st Central’s perspective: security isn't about having the latest tech — it’s about having reliable, appropriate measures you genuinely use each day.

How Security Measures Can Lower Premiums

Some insurers may offer lower premiums when a home is seen as less vulnerable to theft. This can apply when:

• Doors have locks that meet recognised standards
• Windows have key-operated locks
• An alarm system is correctly installed and in regular use
• CCTV or video doorbells act as a deterrent
• External lighting reduces hiding spots around the home

However, security improvements do not guarantee savings. Premiums are influenced by many factors, including crime in your area, previous claims and the type of cover you choose.

Emergency response times can also play a part. For example, if a leak or electrical fault is detected quickly through sensors or smart technology, damage may be reduced. You can learn more about emergency assistance in your policy through 1st Central’s Home Emergency Cover.

If you’re thinking about updating your cover, you can explore your options here.

Types of Security That Can Help Lower Insurance Risk

These common security upgrades can make a home less attractive to intruders:

Burglar alarms

• Wired, wireless or monitored systems
• Some insurers prefer professionally installed alarms
• Useful deterrent and may support evidence in a claim

CCTV & camera systems

• Indoor and outdoor options
• Motion detection and recording features
• Video doorbells can deter doorstep theft

Smart home security devices

• Smart locks (used with approved mechanical locks)
• Door/window sensors
• Wi-Fi cameras and automation
• These tools can help you monitor your home remotely

Security lighting

• Motion-activated exterior lights
• Makes intruders more visible
• Low-cost and widely recommended

For more on smart home setups, you’ll soon be able to explore our dedicated article on Smart Home Security.

Factors That Influence Whether Security Impacts Premiums

Even with strong security, insurers still assess each home individually. Premiums depend on things like:

Location and crime rates

Homes in high-risk areas may not see premium reductions even with excellent security.

Type of security installed

Monitored systems are often seen as more reliable than unmonitored ones.

Quality and certification

Police-approved alarms, British Standard locks and certified devices typically carry more weight.

Property layout, age and value

Older homes or homes with multiple entry points may need stronger security for the same level of risk.

Your claims history

Previous burglary claims may influence pricing more than your current security features.

1st Central’s view: Security supports risk reduction, but it is one part of a bigger picture — including maintenance, property condition and claims history.

Conclusion

Good home security helps protect your home, offers peace of mind and can, in some cases, influence what you pay for insurance. While savings are not guaranteed, strong locks, alarms, CCTV and lighting can make a real difference to safety.

If you’re reviewing your cover or want to understand how your home’s security fits into the picture, you can explore home insurance options with 1st Central.

FAQs

Are monitored alarms better for insurance than unmonitored ones?

Monitored alarms are often viewed as more reliable because they alert a person or service when triggered. Some insurers may consider this a lower risk, but savings are not guaranteed.

Can CCTV alone lower my home insurance?

CCTV can deter intruders and provide evidence, but insurers usually weigh it alongside locks, alarms and other factors.

What security measures do insurers consider most important?

British Standard door locks, key-operated window locks and correctly installed alarms are typically the most influential.

How do crime rates affect insurance savings from security?

Homes in high-crime areas may not see premium reductions even with strong security because the baseline risk remains higher.