New Build Alarm Installation Guide¶

Guide to planning and installing alarm systems during UK new build construction covering pre-plaster wiring, conduit installation, zone planning, and working with builders for optimal security.

Pre-Plaster Alarm Installation Strategy¶

New build construction is the ideal time to install alarm system infrastructure. Pre-plaster installation means cables run within stud walls without surface trunking - a clean professional result. Strategy: run 6-core alarm cable from the central panel location (utility room or understairs cupboard) to each door, window, and sensor location before plasterboarding. Minimum cable runs: front door (entry/exit zone), back door (entry/exit or immediate), 2-4 ground floor windows (perimeter zones), 2-4 ground floor PIRs (immediate), 1-2 first floor PIRs (immediate), loft PIR (optional), and external siren location. Run 2-core cable to each door and window contact, 4-core to each PIR detector, 6-core to the external siren. Run 20mm PVC conduit from the panel to the loft for future expansion. Terminate all cables in a central location near the mains consumer unit and broadband router. The central panel location needs: double mains socket, network point (Cat6), space for panel enclosure (400x300x100mm minimum), and ventilation if in a cupboard. Coordinate with the builder: agree cable routes before first fix electrics. Cables go in after first fix electrical but before plasterboarding.

New Build Installation Sequence and Compliance¶

Installation sequence: Week 4-6 (first fix): run all alarm cables from central location to each sensor point. Leave 1m service loops at both ends. Secure cables to studs with clips at 500mm intervals. Label every cable at both ends with zone number and location. Take photos of cable routes before plasterboarding for future reference. Week 8-10 (second fix): after plastering, termination and sensor installation. Install back boxes and sensor bases. Terminate cables at sensors and panel. Week 10-12 (commissioning): fit the control panel, connect all sensors, power up, and programme the system. Test every zone. Building Regulations compliance: new build alarm installations in the UK are not mandatory but recommended for compliance with Secured by Design (SBD) standards. SBD certification can increase property value by 5-10% according to UK housing studies. Part P does not apply to low-voltage alarm cabling. BS EN 50131 Grade 2 is the minimum standard for a quality new build alarm. Wireless expander option: even in new builds, a hybrid system (wired main sensors + wireless expander for future additions) provides flexibility. Cost: pre-plaster alarm cabling adds £200-£400 to build costs. Fully installed Grade 2 system in new build: £600-£1,200.

Specifications and Comparison¶

New Build Installation Phase	Tasks	Timing	Cost
Pre-First Fix Planning	Draw cable routes, choose panel location	Before first fix	N/A
First Fix (Wiring)	Run all cables, label, photograph	Weeks 4-6	£200-£400
Second Fix (Termination)	Fit sensors, terminate cables	Weeks 8-10	£200-£400
Commissioning	Connect panel, program, test	Weeks 10-12	£200-£400
SBD Certification	Secured by Design assessment	After completion	£150-£300

FAQ¶

Should I install wired or wireless alarm in a new build?: Wired is strongly recommended for new builds. Cables can be hidden in walls before plasterboarding, resulting in the most reliable system with no battery changes. Add a wireless expander module for flexibility to add sensors later without wiring.
Where should I put the alarm panel in a new build?: Choose a central location near the mains consumer unit and broadband router. Utility rooms, understairs cupboards, and hallway cupboards are ideal. Ensure the location has a double mains socket and Cat6 network point. Avoid bathrooms and kitchens.
What cable should I run during new build first fix?: Run 6-core alarm cable (0.5mm) from the panel to each sensor location. Use white PVC-sheathed cable suitable for in-wall installation. A 250m reel costs £60-£80 from Screwfix. Also run 20mm PVC conduit from panel to loft for future expansion. For more information see our Shock Sensor Installation Guide.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Ofcom.