Alarm systems for your home – prices, technology, and sensible planning in Switzerland

The cost of an alarm system depends heavily on the system chosen, the size of the property, and the desired level of security. While compact solutions for apartments remain relatively affordable, prices rise significantly for single-family homes with multiple entrances and additional features. The decisive factors are not only the materials, but also the installation costs and the scope of security measures.

Connection to an emergency call center Professional alarm monitoring costs around CHF 300–1,000 per year . In the event of an alarm, the call center checks the message and informs security services or the police. This service is indispensable for many owners, especially during longer periods of absence. Maintenance andservice Depending on the size of the system, maintenance costs range from CHF 400 to CHF 800 per year. This includes functional checks, software updates, and battery replacement. Regular maintenance reduces false alarms and ensures operational reliability. Additionalsensors Additional window contacts, motion detectors, or glass break detectors usually cost CHF 150–300 each, plus installation. For houses with many windows, this can significantly increase the total cost. Videosurveillance Indoor and outdoor cameras cost between CHF 300 and CHF 800 per unit, including installation. They offer additional security, but also incur higher purchase and, in some cases, running costs. App and smart homeconnectivity Control via smartphone or integration into existing smart home systems often costs CHF 250–600. This function is sometimes already integrated into premium systems, but may require a subscription.

Number of accesspoints Each additional door or window requires its own contact. Buildings with many patio doors or basement access points therefore require significantly more hardware. Interiormonitoring Motion detectors secure entire rooms. More floors or spacious floor plans automatically increase the number of detectors required. Quality of the alarm controlpanel The control panel controls the entire system. Models with higher security standards, better tamper protection, and more expansion options are more expensive but more reliable in the long term. Wireless or wired Wireless systems are easier to retrofit, while wired systems require more installation work but are less maintenance-intensive. Use ofcameras Video surveillance is one of the most expensive additions – especially outdoor cameras with recording and night vision. Networking with buildingtechnology Coupling with lighting, roller shutters, or door locks increases comfort and security, but incurs additional costs for modules and programming. Securityclass Systems in accordance with EN 50131 Grade 2 are common for residential buildings, while Grade 3 offers a higher level of protection. Costs increase with higher grades. Installationeffort Complex floor plans, multiple floors, or areas that are difficult to access result in more working time and thus higher installation costs.

The choice of system depends on the condition of the building, the desired level of security, and the budget. While wireless solutions score points primarily for their flexibility, wired systems offer maximum reliability. Hybrid solutions combine both approaches.

These systems are considered particularly fail-safe because they operate independently of radio connections. They are ideal for new buildings or extensive renovations where cables can be integrated directly. Advantages - Very high operational reliability - No battery replacement necessary - Ideal for large buildings

Disadvantages - Complex installation - Interference with the building structure - Higher acquisition costs Suitable for: New buildings , large single-family homes, and properties with high security requirements.

Hybrid systems combine wired components with wireless sensors. Critical areas are secured with wired connections, while less sensitive zones are flexibly supplemented with wireless connections. Advantages - High flexibility - Very reliable - Easily expandable

Disadvantages - Higher costs - More planning effort - Longer installation time Suitable for: Complex or partially renovated buildings with different requirements.

Notevery house needs the same equipment. The selection should be based on the actual risks. Door and windowsensors Basic equipment for every alarm system. They monitor the most common points of entry and are useful in almost every property. Motiondetectors Secure interior rooms and supplement perimeter protection. Particularly effective in hallways, stairwells, and living areas. Glass breakdetectors Recommended for large window areas or easily accessible basement windows. Smoke and waterdetectors Not burglary protection, but extremely important for preventing fire and water damage—especially in utility rooms and basements. Indoor and outdoorcameras Act as a deterrent and provide evidence in an emergency. However, they do not replace sensors, but complement them. Sirens Acoustic alarms increase the deterrent effect. Outdoor sirens are subject to certain legal requirements.

Inadequate planning Those who skimp on sensors often leave gaps exactly where burglars strike. Poorinstallation Incorrectly placed detectors cause false alarms or react too late. Cheap completesets Inexpensive online offers often provide insufficient protection against tampering and are unreliable. Neglecting maintenance Without regular checks, the risk of failure in an emergency increases. No professionalanalysis Standard solutions rarely take into account the individual vulnerabilities of a building.

An alarm system is only as good as its design. Only the combination of the right choice of sensors, professional installation, and regular maintenance ensures reliable protection. Seeking professional advice at an early stage helps you avoid making the wrong decisions and allows you to invest specifically in the safety of your home and family.