A **Grade 2 intruder alarm** is designed for **medium-risk premises**, offering enhanced security features compared to **Grade 1** systems. These alarms are suitable for **residential homes, small businesses, and retail premises** where the risk of burglary is higher, and intruders may have some knowledge of alarm systems.

Grade 2 systems provide **better intrusion detection, tamper protection, and communication capabilities**, making them the **minimum recommended standard for many insurance policies**.

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- Protection against intruders with **some knowledge of alarm systems**.

- Includes **magnetic contacts, PIR (Passive Infrared) motion detectors, glass break sensors, and shock sensors**.

- Some sensors may include **anti-masking technology** (detecting if they are covered or blocked).

- Can be a **bells-only system** or linked to a **monitoring centre (ARC - Alarm Receiving Centre)**.

- Supports **police response** if an alarm confirmation process is followed.

- Can use **single-path or dual-path communication**:

- **Single-path (SP1/SP2)** – Uses landline, IP, or GSM to send alerts.

- **Dual-path (DP1/DP2)** – Uses two communication methods for redundancy, such as IP + GSM backup.

- Devices have **tamper switches** to detect attempts at opening or disabling them.

- Control panels are typically **secured in an enclosure with tamper protection**.

- Wiring (for wired systems) must be protected against tampering.

- **Mains powered with backup battery support**.

- Battery must last **at least 12 hours** in case of power failure.

- Controlled via **keypads, fobs, mobile apps, or smart integrations**.

- Some systems offer **encrypted wireless signals** for increased security.

- Event logs must be available to **track system activity**.

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The **EN 50131 standard** defines the technical specifications and security requirements for Grade 2 alarm systems. Below are the key requirements:

- Suitable for premises where intruders may have some knowledge of alarm systems but lack advanced tools to disable them.

- Commonly used in **homes, small businesses, retail shops, and offices**.

- Offers a significant upgrade from **Grade 1** but lacks the advanced protection of **Grade 3 or 4**.

- **Multiple detection methods** including motion sensors, door/window contacts, and glass break detectors.

- Sensors must have **increased reliability** and resistance to false alarms.

- Some detectors must include **anti-masking** (to detect if they are blocked or covered).

- Can be either **bells-only** (audible alarm) or **remotely monitored**.

- If monitored, it can be connected to an **Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC)**.

- Can be configured for **police response**, but must follow confirmation procedures (BS 8243).

- Devices and cabling must include **tamper protection**.

- **Control panel must be secure** and inaccessible to intruders.

- Wireless systems must have **encrypted communication** to prevent signal interference.

- **Battery backup must last a minimum of 12 hours**.

- If wireless, sensors must **report low battery status** to the control panel.

- Must include **a keypad or other user interface for system management**.

- Some models may include **touchscreens or mobile app controls**.

- Event logs must store and display recent activity.

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To ensure proper installation and compliance, **Grade 2 alarm systems** should be installed in line with:

- **EN 50131-1** – General requirements for intruder alarms.

- **PD 6662** – UK adaptation of EN 50131 standards.

- **BS 8243** – Alarm confirmation requirements (for police response).

- **SSAIB / NSI Certification** – Ensures professional installation and insurance compliance.

**Insurance companies often require Grade 2 or higher** for policy validation, particularly for business premises or valuable residential properties.

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✔ **Higher security than Grade 1** – Suitable for medium-risk environments.

✔ **Supports remote monitoring & police response** – Can integrate with professional security services.

✔ **Improved tamper protection** – Reduces vulnerability to sabotage.

✔ **More reliable detection** – Advanced sensors reduce false alarms.

✔ **Wireless options available** – Easy installation with secure communication.

✖ **Not suitable for high-risk properties** – May not deter professional criminals.

✖ **Limited redundancy** – Lacks the advanced security features of Grade 3 and Grade 4.

✖ **May require professional installation** – To ensure compliance with EN 50131 standards.

✖ **Can be bypassed by skilled intruders** – Not designed for highly targeted attacks.

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Grade 2 alarms are ideal for:

- **Residential homes** – Providing a good balance between security and affordability.

- **Small businesses and offices** – Protecting against opportunistic theft.

- **Retail premises** – Enhancing security for stock and assets.

- **Storage units and workshops** – Where moderate-value items are kept.

- **Premises requiring insurance compliance** – Many policies require at least Grade 2 alarms.

For properties with **higher-value assets or increased burglary risks**, a **Grade 3 or Grade 4 system** may be recommended.

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Grade 2 intruder alarms provide a **significant upgrade** from Grade 1, offering **better intrusion detection, tamper protection, and remote monitoring options**. They are suitable for **medium-risk environments** where intruders may have some knowledge of alarm systems but lack advanced tools to bypass them.

If higher security is needed, **Grade 3 or Grade 4** systems should be considered. Professional installation and **compliance with EN 50131 standards** ensure effectiveness and eligibility for insurance coverage.