Alarm system for your home
Protecting one's own four walls is becoming increasingly important in Switzerland. Modern alarm systems play an important role in preventing burglaries, property damage, and consequential damage at an early stage. At the same time, owners are faced with a multitude of decisions: wireless or wired, basic equipment or a comprehensive security system, self-monitoring or connection to a central control center.
To help you find the right solution for your house or apartment, this guide provides a realistic overview of costs, explains the most important types of systems, and highlights the factors that actually influence the price of an alarm system.
How much does an alarm system for a house or apartment cost?
The investment in an alarm system can vary greatly. Among other things, the size of the building, the number of areas to be secured, and the technical scope of the system are decisive factors. While smaller apartments can be secured with a manageable budget, large single-family homes require significantly higher investments.
In addition to equipment costs, installation, upgrades, and ongoing services play a key role in the overall bill.
Typical total costs by system type (including installation)
Wireless alarm systems – ideal for retrofitting
For an average single-family home, the cost of a wireless alarm system is usually between $6,000 and $8,000. This typically includes the alarm control panel, several door and window sensors, and one or two motion detectors, including installation.
If the system is expanded to include cameras, additional sensors, or convenience features, the price can increase to between CHF 10,000 and CHF 20,000.
Wired systems – durable and particularlystable
Wired alarm systems usually cost between $7,000 and $14,000. They are particularly suitable for new buildings or extensive renovations, as the cabling is integrated directly into the building structure.
For large properties with many access points and cameras, total costs of CHF 17,000 to CHF 37,000 are not uncommon.
High-level hybrid and security systems
Combined systems are used for large houses, villas, or properties with increased security requirements. These start at around $20,000 and can be significantly higher, depending on the equipment and monitoring. They offer maximum reliability and flexible expansion options.
Additional costs that often only become apparent later
Connection to an alarm center
The annual cost of professional monitoring is usually between $400 and $1,100. In the event of an alarm, the report is checked and the security service or police are notified.
Regularmaintenance
Depending on the size of the system, maintenance costs range from $300 to $750 per year. This ensures that sensors, software, and power supply function reliably.
Additional sensors
Additional window contacts, motion detectors, or glass break detectors usually cost $100–250 each, plus installation. These costs can quickly add up, especially if you have many windows.
Camerasystems
Indoor and outdoor cameras cost around CHF 400–900 per unit, including installation. They increase security, but are a significant cost factor.
App and smart homefunctions
Mobile control or integration into existing smart home systems often costs between $300 and $500. In some cases, ongoing subscriptions are also required.
Which factors have the greatest influence on the price?
Number of securitypoints
Each door and window requires its own contact. Buildings with many openings incur correspondingly higher material and installation costs.
Indoorsecurity
The more rooms you want to monitor, the more motion detectors you will need—especially if you have multiple floors.
Quality of the controlcenter
Powerful control centers offer better protection against sabotage, more functions, and higher security standards, but are more expensive.
System type: Wireless orwired
Wireless systems are easier to install, while wired systems require more construction work but are more stable in the long term.
Use of videosurveillance
Cameras are among the most expensive upgrades, especially when installed outdoors and equipped with recording functions.
Networking with buildingservices
Coupling with lighting, roller shutters, or access systems increases comfort and security, but also increases planning and costs.
Securitystandard
Systems compliant with EN 50131 Grade 2 are common for residential buildings. Grade 3 systems offer higher protection but are significantly more expensive.
Installationcosts
Complex floor plans, long distances, or hard-to-reach areas result in higher labor costs.
Wireless or wired—which alarm system is right for you?
Whether wireless, wired, or hybrid: the right solution depends heavily on your building, your security requirements, and your budget. Each type of system has clear strengths and weaknesses.
Wired alarm systems
These systems are considered particularly reliable and are largely trouble-free. They are the preferred choice for installation in new buildings or renovations.
benefits
- Very high operational reliability
- No battery replacement
- Ideal for large objects
disadvantages
- Complex installation
- Interventions in walls and floors
- Higher initial costs
Suitable for: New buildings and houses with high security requirements.
wireless alarm systems
Wireless systems can be installed quickly and expanded flexibly. They are particularly suitable for existing houses and apartments where no structural alterations are desired.
benefits
- Short installation time
- Easy to retrofit
- Less installation work
disadvantages
- Batteries must be replaced regularly.
- Radio interference possible
- Range depends on construction
Suitable for: Existing properties and owners looking for a flexible solution.
hybrid systems
Hybrid systems combine wired components with wireless sensors. This allows safety-critical areas to be permanently wired and other areas to be secured flexibly.
benefits
- High flexibility
- Highly reliable operation
- Good expandability
disadvantages
- Higher acquisition costs
- More planning effort
- Longer installation time
Suitable for: Large or partially renovated buildings.
Orientation and location – crucial for climate and costs
The selection of sensors should be based on the actual risks.
Door and windowsensors
These form the basis of every alarm system and secure the most common points of entry.
Motiondetectors
Ideal for monitoring hallways, stairwells, and large living areas. Special models are required for households with pets.
Glass breakdetector
Useful for large windows or easily accessible windows, especially on the ground floor or in the basement.
Smoke and waterdetectors
They don't protect against burglary, but they do prevent costly fire or water damage—especially in technical rooms and basements.
Indoor and outdoor cameras
Act as a deterrent and provide evidence, but are not a substitute for traditional sensors.
Sirens
Acoustic alarms increase deterrence. Local regulations must be observed for outdoor sirens.
Common mistakes when planning alarm systems
Insufficient protection
Ifsavings are made on sensors, it is often precisely the weakest points that remain unprotected.
Unfavorablepositioning
Incorrectly installed detectors lead to false alarms or insufficient detection.
Low-cost solutions without securitystandards
Inexpensive sets often do not offer sufficient protection against tampering and are prone to malfunction.
Lack ofmaintenance
Without regular inspections, even a high-quality system can fail in an emergency.
No professional propertyanalysis
Standard solutions rarely take into account the individual weaknesses of a building.
Conclusion: An alarm system is only as good as its planning.
An alarm system only offers real protection if it is tailored to the building. The right combination of sensors, professional installation, and regular maintenance are crucial for reliability. Seeking professional advice at an early stage avoids unnecessary expenses and ensures greater security in your home in the long term.
How RENOVO24 works
Find the right service provider without any detours! We make it easy for you: Here's how our service works, from inquiry to appointment booking.
1
Answer questions about the order
Answer a few questions about your desired work in our form. It only takes a few minutes.
2
Receive and compare offers
Receive up to 3 free, no-obligation quotes from verified companies in your area.
3
Hire your preferred service provider
Compare prices and choose the offer you like best. Hire your preferred service provider.
Find the right service provider in just a few steps.
Request a service now free of charge—with no obligation to place an order.
