Wired systems, need wires running to each of the sensors to work. These systems may be cheaper to buy, but they are more expensive to have installed: the wires need to be hidden away, so labour costs are higher.

Wireless alarms use battery-powered sensors that communicate with a control panel using radio signals. These alarms tend to look nicer and are generally easier to install . You can easily add additional sensors, and removing the system when you move house is a lot less complicated than wired alarms.

Smart home-security systems connect to your smartphone or tablet, or those of family members. This means you, or they, will be alerted when your alarm is triggered. These systems also allow you to control your smart security from your phone, even when you’re away from home. Just 7% of alarm owners we spoke to have one of these systems.

The alarm system connects to a receiving centre, which is notified each time your alarm is triggered. First, the receiving centre will call your Premises landline to ask for password identification. If this is incorrect or no one answers, it will take action. This is either to inform the keyholder(s), or to call the police, depending on what type of contract you have.