Can a security system help with insurance premiums in BC?
When you’re protecting your home or business, a professionally installed security system provides more than just peace of mind, it can also lead to lower insurance premiums. Many homeowners and business owners across British Columbia are surprised to learn that installing a monitored alarm system or surveillance cameras can qualify them for insurance discounts while reducing the likelihood of costly claims.
At ProActive Integrated Security, we’ve been helping clients across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland secure their properties for over 20 years. This article explains how a properly installed and maintained security system can help reduce your insurance costs, what insurers typically look for, and how to ensure your setup meets their requirements.
Why insurance companies reward security systems
Insurance companies base their premiums on risk. The greater the likelihood of a loss, whether through theft, vandalism, or fire, the higher the premium. When you install a reliable security system, you’re lowering that risk, and insurers often reward you with policy discounts or premium reductions.
A well-designed system reduces claims by:
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- Deterring theft and break-ins before they happen
- Minimizing property damage from vandalism or intrusion
- Enabling faster emergency response in the event of a fire or alarm
- Providing video evidence that supports investigations and claims
Insurance companies see monitored systems as a proactive measure to protect property, which can translate into annual savings of 5% to 20% on your home or business insurance premium, depending on your provider and system type.
What types of security systems qualify for insurance discounts
Not all security systems are treated equally by insurers. Discounts are typically offered for professionally installed and monitored systems that meet specific reliability and certification standards.
1. Monitored intrusion alarm systems
These are the most common systems that qualify for discounts. A monitored alarm system sends signals to a professional monitoring center when triggered. The monitoring team can verify the alarm and dispatch police or emergency services.
Insurance companies prefer monitored systems because they provide continuous protection, even when you’re away.
Qualifying features include:
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- Door and window sensors
- Motion detectors
- 24/7 professional monitoring
- Redundant communication (cellular, IP, or landline backup)
- Certification from a U.L.C.-listed monitoring facility
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At ProActive Integrated Security, our monitoring is handled by a U.L.C.-certified, AAA-rated station based in British Columbia, ensuring fast, dependable response.
2. Fire and life safety systems
Fire and smoke detection systems also play a major role in reducing insurance risk. Professionally installed and monitored fire alarms can alert emergency responders before a fire spreads, preventing major property loss.
Fire system components that qualify include:
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- Smoke and heat detectors
- Carbon monoxide sensors
- Sprinkler system integration
- 24/7 fire alarm monitoring
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For commercial clients, many insurers require annual inspection records for these systems under the BC Fire Code to maintain eligibility for discounts.
3. Video surveillance (CCTV or IP cameras)
Security cameras don’t always guarantee a premium discount, but they add value by deterring crime and providing documented evidence for claims. For example, video footage can help verify the details of a break-in or damage event, leading to quicker claim processing.
Systems with cloud storage or local recording are particularly useful for commercial properties such as retail stores, offices, and warehouses.
4. Smart home security systems
Modern smart home systems integrate alarms, lighting, and sensors for total control through your smartphone. Some insurers now recognize these systems if they include professional monitoring or remote alerts that help prevent loss.
Examples of integrated smart features include:
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- Remote access via mobile app
- Smart locks and lighting automation
- Leak detection or water shut-off valves
- Smoke and CO alert integration
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While not every insurer discounts smart systems yet, this technology trend is growing as more homeowners adopt smart, connected devices for protection and convenience.
How much can you save with a monitored system?
Savings vary depending on your insurance company, coverage type, and the system’s certification level.
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- Homeowners: Typically receive 5–15% annual discounts on property insurance for monitored intrusion and fire alarm systems.
- Condominium owners: Can often save 5–10%, especially when protecting storage areas or private entrances.
- Business owners: May qualify for 10–20% reductions on commercial property insurance, especially for monitored fire protection and intrusion prevention.
For example, a homeowner in Burnaby paying $1,600 per year in insurance premiums might save $160–$240 annually with a professionally monitored alarm system. Over a 10-year period, those savings can offset much of the installation and monitoring cost.
What insurance companies look for
To qualify for discounts, your system typically needs to meet certain standards. Insurers will want proof that your equipment is professionally installed, actively monitored, and properly maintained.
Insurance companies usually require:
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- Proof of installation: A certificate or documentation from a licensed security company.
- Monitoring agreement: Verification that your system is connected to a certified monitoring station.
- Annual maintenance: Evidence of regular service or testing, especially for fire alarm systems.
- U.L.C. certification: Systems monitored by a U.L.C.-listed facility are often eligible for higher discounts.
At ProActive Integrated Security, we provide our clients with all required documentation to help secure these insurance benefits.
Why professional installation makes a difference
While DIY alarm kits are widely available, most insurance providers only recognize systems installed by licensed and bonded security companies. Professionally installed systems ensure proper wiring, configuration, and communication with monitoring centers, which greatly improves reliability.
Professional installation ensures:
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- Devices are correctly positioned for maximum coverage
- Wiring and communication paths meet safety standards
- False alarms are minimized through proper calibration
- Monitoring is active and compliant with insurer requirements
As a fully licensed and bonded security contractor in British Columbia, ProActive Integrated Security ensures every installation meets both provincial regulations and industry best practices.
Combining security and fire protection for maximum savings
The most effective insurance savings often come from combining multiple protective systems. For instance, a home or business that includes monitored intrusion detection, fire alarm integration, and CCTV surveillance demonstrates a significantly reduced risk profile.
Benefits of combining systems include:
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- Comprehensive protection from theft, fire, and vandalism
- Faster emergency response due to integrated communication
- Fewer insurance claims and lower long-term premiums
- Compliance with fire code and safety regulations
Many of our clients across Surrey, Richmond, and Langley have found that combining systems not only lowers their insurance costs but also improves day-to-day safety and operational peace of mind.
Real-world example: homeowner savings in Vancouver
A homeowner in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighborhood contacted ProActive Integrated Security after a neighbor’s home was broken into. We installed a professionally monitored security system featuring door sensors, motion detectors, and smoke alarm integration.
Within weeks, their insurer confirmed eligibility for a 10% annual discount on their home insurance policy. Over the next several years, the homeowner saved hundreds of dollars, effectively offsetting the cost of the monitoring service while enjoying 24/7 protection.
This kind of result is common when insurance providers see a reduction in risk supported by verified professional monitoring.
Compliance, peace of mind, and added value
Beyond insurance savings, a well-maintained alarm system enhances property value and peace of mind. Many prospective buyers and tenants view professionally monitored systems as a valuable upgrade.
Additional long-term benefits include:
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- Meeting security requirements for commercial lease agreements
- Lower risk of burglary-related insurance claims
- Increased confidence for homeowners and business operators
- Improved response times from emergency services
By investing in a quality system installed by ProActive Integrated Security, you’re not only protecting your property, you’re adding measurable value and lowering your overall cost of ownership.
Proudly serving the Lower Mainland
ProActive Integrated Security has proudly operated in the Lower Mainland for more than 20 years, serving both residential and commercial clients throughout the region.
Our service areas include:
Our team lives and works in these communities, which means when you call us, you’re speaking directly with local professionals who care about your safety and satisfaction.
Protect your property and lower your premiums with ProActive Integrated Security
Ready to secure your home or business and potentially lower your insurance costs?
At ProActive Integrated Security, we design and install professionally monitored alarm and fire systems that meet the highest industry standards and help you qualify for insurance savings. From intrusion detection to CCTV surveillance and fire monitoring, we provide complete protection for homes and businesses across the Lower Mainland.
Call (604) 522-2121 today or request a free consultation online. We proudly serve Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam, and surrounding areas with professional alarm installations, system upgrades, and 24/7 U.L.C.-certified monitoring you can trust.
Protect your investment, qualify for savings, and enjoy peace of mind with ProActive Integrated Security.
