What the New 2025 UK Home Security Standards Mean for You
Security systems have come a long way in the past decade, but 2025 marks a significant shift. With updated national standards now in place, homeowners are being urged to reassess how well their intruder alarms, CCTV systems, and communications infrastructure measure up. At Armour Security, we’re fully aligned with these changes, delivering expert installations across North London, Essex, and Hertfordshire that not only meet the law but exceed expectations.
A New Standard for Protection: NPSA’s 2025 Guidance
On 13 June 2025, the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) released updated national guidance on home security systems. This wasn’t just a technical update; it was a redefinition of what effective domestic security looks like, especially for individuals or properties at increased risk.
The guidance introduces a more structured model for residential protection. Homes should now be split into strategic zones: the perimeter, where detection and deterrence begin; the retreat area, offering secure space for occupants; and the control zone, housing alarm systems and communication networks.
This approach calls for a system that’s fully integrated, with intruder detection, CCTV, and resilient communications, and installed by professionals with proper certification. That’s precisely what Armour Security delivers: layered, logical, and fully compliant solutions, tailored to each property’s unique profile.
Read the official NPSA guidance here
Alarm Systems: Grade Matters
Intruder alarms must now meet the requirements set out in BS EN 50131, a European-wide standard implemented in the UK through PD 6662. These frameworks define not just system performance, but also how alarms are installed, maintained, and connected.
For most residential homes, Grade 2 or Grade 3 systems are recommended, depending on the assessed level of risk. These systems include advanced anti-tamper features, intelligent motion detection, and remote monitoring via dual-path communication (for example, internet plus mobile signal backup).
At Armour Security, we install Grade 2 and Grade 3 systems as standard, ensuring homeowners meet both insurance requirements and police response protocols.
CCTV: From Cameras to Certified Systems
A professionally installed CCTV system does more than record it detects, deters, and provides vital evidence when needed. New standards like BS EN 62676 and BS 8418 now govern every part of the process: planning, positioning, recording, and response.
The latest guidelines place a strong emphasis on detector-activated CCTV systems that trigger alerts when specific movement is captured. These aren’t just cameras—they’re intelligent components of a wider security system.
Armour Security ensures all installations are compliant, registered where required, and designed for maximum coverage without compromising privacy laws.
Why Accreditation Really Counts
When it comes to home security, not all installers are equal. The updated guidance from NPSA and insurers stresses the importance of using certified companies, specifically those accredited by NSI (National Security Inspectorate) or SSAIB (Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board).
These accreditations are more than a badge; they’re proof that systems meet national standards and that installers are regularly audited to ensure consistent quality.
Armour Security is proud to hold full NSI accreditation, offering peace of mind that every system we install is built to recognised standards, fully documented, and eligible for police response where applicable.
The Cyber Side of Security: PSTI Act Now in Force
Security doesn’t stop at the physical level. With the growth of smart alarms, connected cameras, and cloud-based access, cybersecurity has become a major focus. As of 29 April 2024, the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act requires all connected security devices to follow strict rules:
- No default or guessable passwords
- Transparent security update policies
- Published support timeframes
Any installer still fitting “plug-and-play” cameras with weak protections is now violating legal standards. Armour Security uses only PSTI-compliant equipment, ensures firmware updates are applied regularly, and locks down all endpoints using industry best practices.
Built to Last: Compliance from Wiring to Response
Great security systems don’t just rely on tech, they rely on structure. That’s why we follow the BS 7671 (18th Edition) wiring regulations for every installation, ensuring full safety and compliance even for complex systems.
And for properties with integrated fire alarms or smart home systems, we also observe BS 5839 standards to prevent signal conflicts and ensure full compatibility across the board.
At every stage, from initial survey to commissioning, you get a system that’s future-proofed, standards-aligned, and ready for rapid response.
A Smarter Standard of Security
This year’s updates represent a shift towards smarter, more resilient security. Armour Security is at the forefront of this shift, offering clients across North London, Essex, and Hertfordshire systems that combine robust protection with legal compliance and total peace of mind.
Whether you’re securing a family home, a rural property, or a high-value residence, we can design a package that reflects both the latest legal standards and your personal security goals.
Let’s Secure What Matters
The best time to upgrade your home security isn’t after something happens; it’s before. Contact Armour Security today for a no-obligation risk assessment and system design tailored to your property.