Don’t Be Alarmed, But Do You Have a Redcare Alarm?
At the start of 2024, BT Group announced their Redcare Alarms will be phased out by 1st August 2025.1 If your services expire before this, your product will need to be updated.
If your insurance requires that you have an alarm system that reports to a central monitoring centre, you will need to ensure that you replace your Redcare system with a suitable alternative. Check with your insurer to see whether they have any specific stipulations when it comes to the type of signalling and method of response, with ‘Dual Path’ and ‘Police response’ being common examples.
Why are Redcare phasing out their fire and security alarms?
Network Upgrades – Telecommunications providers are upgrading their networks to focus on IP-based services, leading to the gradual discontinuation of older technologies. IP, known an internet protocol-based services and products, use the internet to host their services, such as web hosting, data and content hosting, and server hosting. To put it simply, most new alarm systems will be hosted online, through the internet. BT, for instance, is moving towards an all-IP network, which will ultimately replace the traditional PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) services that Redcare alarms rely on.
Decline in Landline Use – As more households and businesses switch to mobile and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services. This shift has made landline-based alarm systems less practical and less relevant in the modern context.
What Are the Benefits of Upgrading?
Newer alarm systems often offer enhanced security features and potential future proofing against the phasing out of older technologies. These modern systems can offer remote access and control via smartphones or other devices, which adds a layer of user-friendly features for consumers. Installing the correct alarm system not only helps enhance your property’s security but can also help align with your insurer’s expectations.
Compliance with Requirements
Irrespective of BT’s withdrawal of Redcare alarms, most security systems will need to be upgraded in response to the switch to new technology. We recommend that you consult a professional security system company who should be able to advise you on the type of alarm that will best suit your home.
Many insurers have specific requirements regarding the type and quality of alarm systems. Installing an alarm that meets or exceeds these standards ensures compliance with policy terms. This can go towards preventing potential issues during claims processing, and help you receive full benefits with a potentially reduced risk of complications.
Make sure the replacement system you install is equivalent to or better than your existing Redcare Alarm. Alarm technicians will become increasingly booked up and there could be a limited number of alternative options available over the course of one year.
If you would like to discuss your policy and how it relates to your security system, or need more information on what type of alarm you’ll need to replace your Redcare one with, talk to us.
