Choosing a Quality Supplier
Whilst the majority of those in the security industry provide a good service
and quality products, there are those who overprice jobs, target older people
with inappropriate security or sell products that may not be as secure as
required. Use the following list to help you make choices and stay in control
of the process. If in doubt do not buy or sign anything until you have sought
advice.
Do's:
- Check your security against the information on our web site to decide
where you think you need to improve.
- If your budget is limited deal with doors, locks, windows and perhaps
a small safe for passport, jewellery and valuable documents before you embark
on alarms and CCTV.
- Identify at least 2, preferably 3 companies that deal with the type of
security you need so you can compare quality and price.
- Choose suppliers by recommendation from friends, companies whose products
have the Secured by Design Police Preferred Specification logo, or are members
of a nationally recognised organisation specialising in security. See useful
contacts below.
- You may be able to install or replace some security yourself using good
DIY skills and products that have passed technical standards and tests.
Secured by Design pages explain these.
- Tell the supplier which areas of security you believe you should improve
and ask for written quotes detailing the work to be done and the cost.
- If the firm suggests you need additional security, check to see if the
other firms quoting suggest the same.
- For alarms and electronic security ask which parts of the system will
be owned by you and if there is any future maintenance or monitoring charge.
If you do not own the whole system and you cancel the maintenance contract
you may lose protection.
- If you are uncertain about the company or what you are being offered ask
a friend or relative to help. The Citizens Advice Bureau and Neighbourhood
Watch are often aware of unreliable firms.
- Check identity before allowing strangers or installers into your home.
Don'ts:
- Discuss your security needs with door-step callers or telephone-sales
staff.
- Agree to work unless a written quote is given detailing the work and cost.
- Disclose personal information, such as health problems, high risk items,
such as jewellery, valuable stamp collections or artwork until you have
decided on the security supplier AND you consider it necessary for security
protection, such as requesting a safe or a special alarmed area.
- Go to your bank or cash machine with the installer / salesman to withdraw
cash.
- Pay for all the work until the job is completed to your satisfaction.
Useful contacts:
British Security Industry Association (BSIA) for security companies
www.bsia.co.uk
Tel: 01905 21464
Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) for Locks and Hardware
www.locksmiths.co.uk/mla
Tel: 01327 262 255
National Security Systems Inspectorate (NSI) for Alarms & CCTV
www.nsi.org.uk
Tel: 01628 637512
Security Systems & Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB) for Alarms & CCTV
www.ssaib.co.uk
Tel: 0191 296 3242