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Intruder Alarm Grades

Grades 1–4 per PD 6662 / BS EN 50131 and the risk level each is designed to resist.

GradeDesigned againstTypical premises
1Low risk — intruders with little knowledge of intruder alarm systems and limited tools.Domestic premises with a low theft risk and no insurer or police requirement for a graded system.
2Low‑to‑medium risk — intruders familiar with alarm systems, using some tools and portable equipment.Most domestic properties and low‑risk commercial premises such as small shops and offices.
3Medium‑to‑high risk — experienced intruders with a comprehensive range of tools and portable electronic equipment.Higher‑value commercial premises — retail, offices — with a substantial risk profile.
4High risk — intruders with the resources to plan an attack in detail, including substitution equipment.High‑security or life‑safety‑critical sites, such as banks, bullion stores, jewellers and government or classified premises.

Police URN registration for a monitored response is generally only granted where the system is installed to at least Grade 2, with Grade 3 common practice for higher‑risk commercial sites. Grade 1 systems aren't normally accepted for URN registration. See our ARC monitoring page for what URN registration involves.

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