If you’re comparing options for burglar alarm installation in Finchley, the short answer is this: for most homes, a professional EN 50131 Grade 2 system is the best balance of protection, usability, and insurance expectations. Grade 2 is designed for properties that may attract an intruder who has some knowledge of alarms and may bring basic tools. At Third Eye Installation Systems, we install and maintain burglar alarms and CCTV across North London, including Finchley.
The Best Burglar Alarm for Most Homes in Finchley
Most homeowners want three things:
- Fast, reliable detection at key entry points (front/back doors, patio doors, accessible windows)
- Simple day-to-day control (keypad, fob, and app options)
- A setup that’s insurer-friendly and installed properly
That’s exactly where a Grade 2 intruder alarm tends to land.
EN 50131 Alarm Grades Explained (Grade 2 vs Grade 3)
EN 50131 is the security standard that sets expectations around how intruder alarms are designed, installed, and maintained, including “grades” based on risk level. Here’s a practical way to think about it:
| Alarm grade | Typical risk level | Best for | In plain English |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 2 | Low to medium | Most homes and typical residential risks | Protects against a burglar who understands basic alarms and may bring tools |
| Grade 3 | Medium to high | High-value contents (e.g., jewellery, art) and higher-risk premises | Built for more determined, experienced intruders |
Wireless, Wired, or Hybrid: Which Alarm Setup Fits Your Property?
We install wireless, hardwired, and hybrid alarm systems, depending on the property and what you want the system to do.
Wireless alarms (popular for many Finchley homes):
- Faster installation, less disruption
- Great for finished homes and refurbishments
- Easy to expand later (add sensors, extra door contacts)
Wired alarms:
- Ideal during major refurbishments or when cabling is easy
- Very stable long-term
Hybrid systems:
- Best of both worlds (wired where it makes sense, wireless where you want flexibility)
Perimeter Protection: The Simple Upgrade That Stops “Patio Door” Break-Ins
A lot of residential break-ins come down to one moment: an entry point opening without you realising.
Perimeter detection focuses on doors/windows first, so the system triggers as soon as a door opens or a vulnerable window is forced. Common perimeter devices include:
- Door/window contacts (including patio doors)
- Shock sensors (useful for forced entry attempts)
- External beams (early warning before someone reaches the house)
And a quick safety reminder: if someone claims to be from a council/utility/maintenance company, verify their identity before letting them in. Call the company back using a number you find independently.
Should You Add CCTV as Well?
Alarms stop and deter. CCTV helps you see what’s happening and provides footage if you ever need it.
For CCTV, we specify and install Hikvision systems because they deliver strong image quality, reliability, and remote viewing. CCTV is especially useful if you want to cover:
- Driveways and front approaches
- Side access routes and rear gardens
- Front doors and deliveries
What Happens During a Free Security Survey for Burglar Alarm Installation in Finchley
A proper survey avoids guesswork. Your free survey typically covers:
- Walkthrough of your property and entry points
- Discussion of lifestyle risks (commuting patterns, travel, schools runs)
- Camera coverage planning (if adding CCTV)
- Grade recommendation (Grade 2 vs Grade 3)
- A clear quote and system plan
Third Eye Installations System offers free quotes and surveys, and ongoing support via a 24/7 helpline. Insurers often care about proper alarm and CCTV installation and ongoing maintenance, particularly for higher-grade systems. Third Eye Installations System is NSI Gold accredited, which is a recognised mark in the UK security industry.
If you’re ready to secure your home properly, book a free survey for burglar alarm installation in Finchley, and we’ll recommend the right setup for your property and risk level. For alarms, we commonly specify Pyronix systems due to their proven performance and smart features. For CCTV, we install Hikvision systems for clear footage and dependable remote viewing. If you want a straightforward quote and clear recommendations, our team can help you plan CCTV and burglar alarm installation in Finchley with the right level of coverage from day one.
FAQs
- Do I need a Grade 2 alarm for my home?
For many homes, Grade 2 is the “sweet spot” because it’s designed for a more capable intruder than Grade 1. - Is a wireless burglar alarm reliable?
Modern wireless systems are widely used in residential installations and can be a great fit where you want minimal disruption and easy expansion. - Should I get CCTV as well as an alarm?
If you want visibility (live view, playback, evidence), CCTV is a smart add-on. Many clients choose both for layered security. - Can you upgrade an existing alarm?
Yes. Third Eye Installation System offers support for existing systems and can assess takeover/upgrade options during a survey.