Alarm System Costs Made Simple: What to Consider Before Buying

Unfortunately, the decision-making process often begins directly with the choice of brand or manufacturer. But how is a layperson supposed to judge which alarm system is truly reliable and suitable for their home? In our experience, other factors should be prioritized before selecting a brand.

Many people rely on online articles from so-called experts, which often serve sales interests rather than providing real information. Alarm system brands are compared without making it clear to the reader which technical solution is genuinely appropriate. Statements like “an alarm system for a medium-sized apartment costs XY” are misleading for several reasons:

a) Starter kits obscure the real costs
The quoted prices usually only cover basic kits. Customers are led to believe they can fully secure their home at this fixed price. The reality often becomes clear during installation, when additional components are required, or in the worst case, after a break-in.

b) Location, floor plan, and risk points must be considered
Only an individual assessment can determine the actual cost of an alarm system. Simply buying online without knowing if the system provides reliable protection carries significant risks.

As a professional alarm system installer, we want to give homeowners a clear overview of alarm system costs with this guide.

Below, we outline the key points you should consider before making a purchase:

• Installation requirements before purchasing an alarm system
• Cost of an alarm system based on requirements and purpose
• Cost of components that a reliable alarm system should include
• Installation costs by a professional
• Follow-up costs for maintenance and monitoring
• Cost savings through subsidies or support programs

1. Installation Requirements Before Buying an Alarm System

First, analyze your situation: Do you live in an existing apartment, a new build, or are you planning a renovation?

• New build or renovation: A wired alarm system can be easily planned. Advantages: high stability and low susceptibility to interference.
• Existing apartments: In most cases, a wireless alarm system is the better choice, as extensive cabling is expensive and often not feasible.

Tip: Prepare this information before a consultation – it saves costs and helps select the right system.

2. Alarm System Costs Based on Requirements and Purpose

Costs depend on the desired level of security. For apartments, we recommend the following levels:

Security Level 1 – Basic Protection

• Secure main entrance and, if applicable, balcony door
• 1–2 motion detectors in hallway/living room
• Cost wireless system including installation: approx. CHF 800–1,200
• Wired system: approx. CHF 1,200–1,700

Security Level 2 – Extended Protection

• All windows in living and sleeping areas plus doors
• Motion detectors, control panel, external siren
• Wireless: approx. CHF 1,500–2,200
• Wired: approx. CHF 2,500–3,500

Security Level 3 – Full Protection (large apartments)

• Complete coverage of all rooms
• Motion detectors, sirens, control panel, smoke detectors
• Wireless: approx. CHF 2,500–3,500
• Wired: approx. CHF 4,500–7,000

Additional options:

• Outdoor areas, balconies, or terraces: approx. CHF 400–1,000
• Smoke detectors: approx. CHF 150–300 per device

Purpose of the Alarm System:

• Preventive protection
• High burglary risk in your area
• Insurance requirements

Costs should be considered an investment in security. Professional advice helps avoid unnecessary expenses. Wireless alarm systems today offer nearly the same protection as wired systems, especially when choosing reputable manufacturers (e.g., Ajax Systems, Lupus Electronics).

3. Cost of Components for a Good Alarm System

Whether wireless or wired, the following components are recommended for basic protection: