How Much Do Fire Alarms Cost in the UK? (2025 Price Guide)
Understanding the Cost of Commercial Fire Alarm Systems
If you’re searching for how much fire alarms cost in the UK, you’re not alone. Whether you need a domestic fire alarm system, an HMO-compliant interlinked fire alarm, or a full commercial fire alarm installation, understanding pricing is key to staying safe – and compliant with BS 5839 fire safety standards.
This guide explains the average cost of fire alarm installation in the UK, breaks down domestic vs commercial prices, and answers the most common questions homeowners, landlords, and businesses ask.
Domestic Fire Alarm Cost (Homes & HMOs)
| Type of Fire Alarm | Average Unit Cost (UK) | Installation Cost | Total Installed Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery-powered smoke alarm | £8 – £50 | £40 – £80 | £50 – £120 | Basic domestic protection, rental properties |
| Mains-powered (with battery backup) | £85 – £150 | £70 – £125 | £150 – £275 | Compliant with building regulations |
| Interlinked fire alarm (hardwired or wireless) | £90 – £300 | £80 – £150 | £170 – £450 | HMO fire alarm installation – mandatory for landlords |
| Smart / monitored fire alarm | £90 – £200 | £80 – £150 | £170 – £350 | Remote monitoring via app |
✅ A full home system (4–6 smoke or heat detectors) generally costs £200 – £450 installed.
Commercial Fire Alarm System Cost UK
| System Type | Cost per m² (Installed) | Typical Total Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional (zoned) | £18 – £27/m² | £1,500 – £3,500 | Small shops, offices |
| Addressable fire alarm system | £25 – £40/m² | £2,500 – £10,000+ | Larger offices, schools, warehouses |
| Voice alarm / PA integrated | £35 – £50/m² | £5,000 – £20,000+ | Hotels, hospitals, care homes |
Ongoing Costs (Monitoring & Maintenance)
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Monitored fire alarm system cost UK: ~£40 – £60/month (commercial), some smart domestic alarms are app-monitored for free.
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Fire alarm maintenance cost UK: Annual servicing ~£100 – £250 for homes, £300 – £1,000+ for commercial premises.
What Affects Fire Alarm Installation Prices?
Several factors influence the average cost of fire alarm installation UK:
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System type – Battery vs mains, interlinked vs wireless, or addressable commercial systems.
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Property size & number of detectors – More zones = higher cost.
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Installation complexity – Hardwired alarms may require rewiring or plasterwork.
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BS 5839 compliance – Higher-category systems cost more but ensure legal compliance.
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Monitoring & maintenance – Adding 24/7 monitoring increases ongoing costs.
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Labour rates – Electricians charge £40 – £75 per hour in the UK.
Domestic vs Commercial – Which System Do You Need?
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Domestic (BS 5839‑6) – Required in all UK homes. HMOs must have interlinked fire alarms (Grade D or above).
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Commercial (BS 5839‑1) – Required for all non-domestic premises, from small shops to large hotels.
If you’re unsure, a professional fire risk assessment will help determine your system requirements.
How to Reduce Fire Alarm System Costs
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Bundle installation with CCTV or intruder alarms to reduce callout charges.
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Choose wireless systems to reduce installation disruption.
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Book regular maintenance – avoids unexpected repair bills.
✅ Why Choose Cobra Fire & Security?
Trusted Local Experts
Over a decade of experience protecting homes and businesses across Hull & East Yorkshire.
HMO & Commercial Specialists
Expert installation and maintenance for HMOs, rental properties, and commercial premises.
24/7 Support & Maintenance
Reliable ongoing servicing and emergency callouts to keep your property protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to install a smoke alarm in the UK?
Battery-powered smoke alarms cost between £50 and £120 installed, while mains-powered or interlinked fire alarms typically cost £150 to £275 on average.
What is the average HMO fire alarm cost in the UK?
An HMO interlinked fire alarm system usually costs between £170 and £450, depending on the size of the property and wiring complexity.
How much does a commercial fire alarm system cost?
mall commercial properties such as shops and offices typically pay £1,500 to £3,500, while larger buildings and warehouses can cost £5,000 to £10,000 or more.
Do I need BS 5839-compliant alarms at home?
Standard homes generally only require domestic smoke or heat alarms, but HMOs and rental properties must meet BS 5839-6 Grade D or higher to comply with UK fire safety regulations.
How much is monthly fire alarm monitoring?
Commercial premises usually pay £40 to £60 per month for professional 24/7 fire alarm monitoring, whereas many domestic smart alarms include free app-based monitoring.
Get a Free Fire Alarm Quote Today
Whether you need a domestic fire alarm installation, an HMO fire alarm system, or a complete commercial fire alarm installation – we’ve got you covered.
📞 Call us today or request your free survey here.
Reviewed: 21/07/2025 Our articles are reviewed regularly. However, any changes made to standards or legislation following the review date will not have been considered. Please note that we provide abridged, easy-to-understand guidance. To make detailed decisions about your fire safety provisions, you might require further advice or need to consult the full standards and legislation.
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Written by : Michael Winter
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