Grade 2 Intruder Alarms: Requirements & Standards

What is a Grade 2 Intruder Alarm?

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.

Key Features of Grade 2 Intruder Alarms

1. Enhanced Intrusion Detection

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).

2. Audible and Monitored Alarm Options

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.

3. Secure Communication & Alarm Signalling

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.

4. Tamper Protection & System Security

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.

5. Backup Power & System Resilience

Mains powered with backup battery support.
Battery must last at least 12 hours in case of power failure.

6. User Interface & Remote Control

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.

EN 50131 Grade 2 Alarm Requirements

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

1. Risk Profile & Application

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.

2. Detection & Sensors

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).

3. Alarm Signalling & Response

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).

4. Tamper Protection & System Security

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.

5. Power Supply Requirements

Battery backup must last a minimum of 12 hours.
If wireless, sensors must report low battery status to the control panel.

6. Control Panel & User Interface

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.

Compliance & Installation Standards

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.

Advantages & Limitations of Grade 2 Alarms

Advantages

✔ 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.

Limitations

✖ 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.

When to Choose a Grade 2 Alarm System

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.

Conclusion

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.