Security monitoring can provide a whole host of benefits to the end-user. From peace of mind that a site is being watched over 24/7 to rapid response times to intruder activity. Throw in reduced false alarms and it’s no wonder that more and more sites are enquiring about remote security monitoring. But what exactly is it and most importantly, how much does security monitoring cost?
The Value of Professional Moniroring
The value proposition of professional monitoring has become increasingly critical for UK businesses seeking robust protection against evolving threats. While a physical deterrent is vital, a monitored solution ensures that threats are never ignored. This is particularly relevant given the latest statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for the year ending June 2025, which showed a significant 55% increase in the robbery of business property, highlighting the growing vulnerability of commercial sites to theft and direct intrusion. For many organisations, investing in a proactive solution like intruder monitoring is a necessity to mitigate these escalating risks.
Furthermore, the sheer financial impact of crime necessitates a resilient security strategy. While physical losses are immediate, the damage from cyber attacks and data breaches is also a growing concern for organisations connecting their systems, with cyber crime costing UK businesses an estimated £30.5 billion. A comprehensive monitoring strategy must therefore cover both physical and digital security layers, reinforcing why remote monitoring is essential for industrial warehouses and other high-value assets.
What is security monitoring?
Security monitoring is when a third party monitoring provider remotely monitors a site’s security system for triggered alarms. When an alarm is activated, the monitoring provider will receive an instant notification and will confirm the alarm as false or positive and respond with the appropriate action in a matter of minutes.
This allows for a fast response from the emergency services or in the case of a false alarm, the site to continue with minimal disruption.
In practice, security monitoring relies on advanced technology and human expertise. Modern systems often integrate smart technologies, such as video analytics powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), to deliver effective CCTV monitoring. When an alarm is triggered, the signal is sent to an accredited Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) where trained operatives can visually verify the event, filtering out non-threats like passing animals or weather-related disturbances. This process drastically reduces false alarms, saving police time and ensuring a priority response when a genuine threat is detected. The effective use of smart technology in security is explored in more detail in our article on the integration of AI in remote security monitoring.
How much does security monitoring cost?
The cost of security monitoring can vary from site to site and depends on numerous factors. However, some sites can receive security monitoring for as little as £20 per month. Keep reading to see the factors that can impact the costs of a site’s security monitoring.
Factors that impact the cost of security monitoring
Site Size
The size of a site will impact the cost to monitor its security system. The bigger the site, the more monitoring operatives are needed, thus explaining the increased cost.
Security System Type & Size
The type and size of a site’s security system will also impact how much it will cost to monitor it. Sites that cover vast areas and with multiple components will cost more to monitor. This complexity is why tailored solutions for lone worker safety, where immediate assistance is paramount, or intricate systems designed for improving warehouse security with remote monitoring, are priced based on the level of dedicated human and technological oversight required.
Level of Service and Environmental Monitoring
The required service level moves beyond simple intruder or fire alarm checks to encompass a full suite of environmental and safety monitoring. For example, remote monitoring solutions are increasingly used for compliance and operational continuity, such as EV charge point monitoring or maintaining critical temperatures in data centres. The integration of security, fire, and environmental monitoring provides a holistic safety net, offering key advantages of combining fire, security and environmental monitoring systems.
For sites dealing with environmental issues, like those in manufacturing or waste management, the cost of not monitoring can be severe. For instance, organised waste crime (fly-tipping) is estimated to cost the UK taxpayer up to £1bn a year, highlighting the financial incentive for businesses to implement constant surveillance to avoid costly clear-ups and penalties. The sophistication required to monitor complex, safety-critical environments—from automated system health checks to proactive maintenance alerts—will influence the final pricing.
Technology and Assurance
Modern security monitoring often involves the use of high-definition video, AI-driven analytics, and cloud-based systems, which can impact cost. However, this technology often delivers a stronger return on investment by eliminating the operational cost of human error and reducing the frequency of false alarms. When selecting a provider, you should also consider the resilience and security of their systems. Research from IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report often indicates that poor governance in high-tech systems can make breaches more expensive, underscoring the importance of choosing a monitoring partner with robust security protocols and system assurance.
Beyond traditional security, the need for enhanced site services, such as a virtual concierge service, also shapes the quotation. These advanced services provide remote customer support, access control, and visitor management, offering a highly cost-effective alternative to on-site reception staff. Understanding the full scope of modern monitoring, including the future of virtual concierge services in residential complexes, helps in accurately budgeting for a comprehensive security and operational solution.
How do I get an accurate cost?
The best way to get an accurate cost for security monitoring is to get in touch directly for a free quote. At RMS we offer free, no-obligation quotations and are happy to answer any of your questions. Get in touch here.
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