How Much Does a Home Alarm System Cost in Ireland?

If you’re thinking about installing a home alarm system or upgrading an older one, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: How much does it actually cost?

The truth is that home alarm prices in Ireland can vary quite a bit depending on the size of your home, the type of system you choose and whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading an existing alarm. This friendly guide breaks everything down so you can plan your budget with confidence — no surprises, no confusing jargon.

We’ll cover:

Typical cost of a new wireless home alarm
Cost of upgrading an older wired alarm
Optional extras and add‑ons
What affects the final price
Real‑world examples from Irish homes
Buyer tips and common mistakes to avoid
FAQs to help you choose the right system

If you want to explore alarm options after reading, you can also visit our Home Alarm Systems page for more detail.

Typical Cost of a New Wireless Home Alarm in Ireland

For most Irish homes, a modern wireless home alarm system costs between €600 and €1,200. This range covers the majority of semi‑detached, terraced and smaller detached homes.

The exact price depends on how many sensors you need and what features you want. Here’s a simple breakdown of what affects the cost:

Number of doors and windows: More entry points = more contacts or shock sensors.
Number of motion sensors: Hallways, living rooms and kitchens typically need coverage.
Internal and external sirens: Some homes need both for better deterrence.
Keypads and keyfobs: Extra control points add convenience.
Mobile app features: App control, notifications and logs are now standard in modern systems.

Wireless alarms are popular because they’re quick to install, clean, flexible and easy to expand later.

Cost of Upgrading an Older Wired Alarm

If your home already has a wired alarm, you may not need a full replacement. In many cases, we can reuse existing cabling and detectors while upgrading the panel, keypad and sirens.

A typical alarm upgrade costs between €350 and €700, depending on:

The age and condition of your existing system
Whether the wiring is still in good shape
How many components need replacing
Whether you want to add wireless devices

Upgrading is often the most cost‑effective option for homes built between the 1990s and early 2010s.

For more details on upgrades, see our Alarm Upgrades & Retrofit page.

Optional Extras & Add‑Ons

Optional extras can enhance your home security system, especially if you want fire protection, outdoor coverage or additional control points.

Typical add‑on prices

Smoke/heat detectors: €60–€120 each
Outdoor sensors: €80–€150 each
Additional keypads: €70–€150
Monitoring (optional): €15–€35 per month

These extras are optional, but many homeowners choose at least one or two for added peace of mind.

What Affects the Final Price?

Every home is different, so the final cost depends on a few key factors. Here’s what typically influences the price of a home alarm system in Ireland:

1. Property size

Larger homes need more sensors — especially if there are multiple entrances, patio doors or extensions.

2. System type

Wireless: Best for existing homes, usually mid‑range in price.
Hybrid: Mix of wired and wireless, ideal for upgrades.
Wired: Best for new builds, often cheaper during construction.

3. Installation complexity

Older homes with thick walls or unusual layouts may require extra time or wireless repeaters.

4. Smart features

Mobile app control, automation and video verification can increase the price slightly — but they also make the system far easier to use.

Real‑World Examples from Irish Homes

Example 1: 3‑bed semi‑detached home in Dublin

Cost: €750 Included: 3 motion sensors, 2 door contacts, internal siren, external bell box, keypad, app control.

Example 2: 4‑bed detached home in Meath

Cost: €1,150 Included: 4 motion sensors, 3 door contacts, 2 keypads, external siren, app control, smoke detector.

Example 3: Upgrade of older wired alarm in Kildare

Cost: €480 Included: New panel, keypad, external siren, app module, reuse of existing wired sensors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing the cheapest system: Low‑cost alarms often lack reliability and support.
Not planning for future rooms: Extensions or attic conversions may need extra sensors.
Ignoring app features: App control is now standard — don’t settle for keypad‑only systems.
Assuming wired is always cheaper: Wireless is usually more cost‑effective for existing homes.
DIY installation: Incorrect placement can lead to false alarms or blind spots.

Buyer Tips: How to Choose the Right Alarm for Your Budget

If you want the best value

Choose wireless. It’s affordable, flexible and easy to expand.

If you’re renovating

Consider wired. If walls are open, cabling is easy to install.

If you’re upgrading an older system

Hybrid is ideal. Reuse what works, replace what doesn’t.

If you want the lowest long‑term cost

Wired. No batteries in most sensors.

If you want the easiest system to use

Wireless with app control. Perfect for busy households.

For more guidance, visit our Home Alarm Systems page.

FAQs: Home Alarm Costs in Ireland

1. What is the average cost of a home alarm in Ireland?

Most wireless systems cost between €600 and €1,200 depending on the number of sensors and features.

2. How much does it cost to upgrade an old alarm?

Typically €350–€700 depending on the condition of the existing system.

3. Are wireless alarms more expensive?

Not necessarily. Wireless systems are often cheaper to install because there’s no cabling work.

4. Do I need monitoring?

Monitoring is optional. It usually costs €15–€35 per month depending on the provider.

5. How long does installation take?

Most wireless systems are installed in 2–4 hours. Upgrades usually take half a day.

6. Do wireless alarms require maintenance?

Yes — batteries typically last 3–5 years and the system will warn you when they need replacing.

7. Are wired alarms cheaper in the long run?

They can be, especially in new builds where cabling is easy to install.

8. Can I add CCTV later?

Absolutely. Most homeowners add CCTV after installing an alarm. See our CCTV Systems page for details.

9. Do I need an external siren?

Yes — it acts as a strong visual deterrent and is recommended for all homes.

10. What’s the cheapest way to secure a small home?

A basic wireless system with 2–3 sensors and app control is usually the most cost‑effective option.

Final Thoughts

Home alarm systems in Ireland are more affordable than many people expect. Whether you’re installing a brand‑new wireless system or upgrading an older wired alarm, there are options for every home and budget.

If you’d like personalised advice or want to explore modern wireless and hybrid systems, visit our Home Alarm Systems page or book a home security survey.