Where this comes up
Central alarm requirements are common for higher-value homes, homes in certain areas, and with high-net-worth carriers. A carrier may make a central fire and burglar alarm a condition of coverage, or give a meaningful credit for one.
When homeowners hear “central alarm,” many assume they need to open walls and hardwire the whole house. That can cost thousands of dollars and weeks of disruption.
What “central” actually means
In insurance, “central” generally means the alarm sends its signal to a third-party central monitoring station. That station receives the alarm and responds, by contacting you or notifying the fire department or police.
It is about who is watching the alarm, not how the sensors are connected.
Wireless may qualify
A professionally installed wireless system with central station monitoring may satisfy the requirement. Hardwired systems can be more reliable, and some carriers or situations may prefer them, but wireless monitoring is often a much simpler and less expensive solution, especially in an existing home.
Before you spend money
- Ask us for the carrier’s exact requirement, in writing.
- Confirm whether both fire and burglar monitoring are required.
- Check whether a certificate from the alarm company is needed, and what it must show.
- Get quotes for both wireless and hardwired installation.
Then send us the alarm certificate so the requirement, and any credit, is applied to your policy.