 What does it take to secure the UK’s most affluent home estates? Providing the ultimate security system for royalty, political leaders, A-list celebrities and large, privately owned estates is a fascinating business and one which draws on specialised expertise from all areas of the security and lifestyle management services. It takes our breath away when we arrive at one of the stunning UK estates, sometimes steeped in historical importance and new contemporary luxury homes.  Protecting rare car collections, pool houses, art galleries, spas, luxury goods, fine jewellery, family heirlooms are some of the areas which need bespoke security measures. For clients who have such things, security plays an essential part of living for each member of the family and staff, with tight protocol to immediately act on any breach of security. But what are the premier estate, security must haves?... We asked Kevin Watkins, Director and Founder of Ardagh Consulting who offer a premier estate and bespoke concierge service. Having worked for the Royal Household, he and his team are no strangers to working with stringent security systems both in the UK and worldwide. “So Kevin, what are today’s premier estate owner, security must haves?” “Working from the outside in, automated gates are a must. They not only let you control who comes onto your estate they also help you reduce the risk of burglary by restricting people from being able to see your valuable estate assets such as cars, statues, garden sculptures and equipment etc. Next is a robust cctv and alarm system, good reputable locks, then you need to install panic alarms which link directly to the emergency services or a security company. Then you'd need at least one strong room etc...”  Is it important to integrate the security systems into their lifestyle?
 How do you keep clients safe whilst they're away from home?
“Well where to start?..if they're not being personally escorted, there are so many ways, but staying in tune with the latest wearable technologies and digital tracking devices is a very important strand of what we can offer our clients. We work with a host of excellent businesses and agencies to give our clients the very best and latest in remote security. For instance, our female clients tend to have a very small digital tracker and personal alarm in their handbags, so the police or security agency can locate the client and handbag in the event of a theft or more extreme - kidnapping. As you can see we offer our clients a very wide range of bespoke concierge services to suit their individual needs.” Kevin, thanks so much for your time to explore the world of premier estate, concierge service. If you have any home estate security questions or concerns please get in touch with White Horse Fire and Security Ltd. Join us on Twitter @whitehorsealarm for more great security tips and advice. Blog written with great detail and finesse by the brilliant Laura Hubbard from Tirrolds Marketing.  When designing your brand new home it’s important to consider any security systems you may need so they can be incorporated in the design stage of your new home build. When you think of home security, you don’t need to think like MI5 or the FBI. Instead, follow these 5 simple security rules to create a beautiful home that has the perfect balance of design, privacy and security. We want to help you create a new home that is a welcoming place for family and an unappealing option for intruders. Follow our 5 simple security rules when constructing your perfect home: 1 Securing your perimeters Security designs should firstly look at securing the very edge of your land or plot. Make sure your land is protected with a strong, well maintained perimeter wall. Consider a local stone wall or tall, close-board fence around your entire perimeter to put off anyone looking for an easy entrance into your grounds. These walls can be monitored by CCTV cameras for added protection. Make sure any gates are tall enough for people not to be able to look into your grounds, and are made from strong wood or metal. There are lots on the market to choose to complement any home design. For added protection choose an elegant, high-grade automated gate which can be controlled digitally from the comfort of your car as you arrive home. 2 Noisy landscaping and visible security systems Well thought out landscaping is probably the last thing on your mind when building the house of your dreams but it helps a new build fit into it's surroundings and add the wow factor as people arrive at your home. When deciding on your landscaping materials, always use gravel or similar as it creates a noticeable noise which can give you warning when an unexpected visitor is walking or driving towards your home. UK Police advise that having a visible home burglar alarm and CCTV system can act as a deterrent and reduce your risk of burglar. These can be wireless or hardwired so speak to a reputable security company and they will talk through the options before you finalise your designs. Keep your home well lit with security lighting which comes on when motion is detected. For a taste of luxury, install a lutron garden lighting system and will be able to digitally control your garden lighting and dimming whilst energy saving.  3 Loveable, lockable doors and windows
There are some lovely new door and window designs on the market so whether you’re choosing something simple and elegant or old and re-claimed, make sure your doors and windows have a robust locking system fitted. Many new, contemporary homes are designed using floor to ceiling sheets of glass to give the home a bright and airy feel. This can make homes more vulnerable as assets can be easier to see from outside your property. Consider fitting internal blinds, a one-way glass or frosted glass option so you can enjoy the added light and view of your garden, whilst blocking people from looking into certain parts of your home. 4 Smart home security With the increasing use of smart phones and devices in our daily lives, consider how smart do you want your home to be? We’ve mentioned some automated ideas above which help increase your home security such as, Gate Automation, CCTV, home intruder/burglar alarm etc and these can all be controlled via an app on your phone and tablet. You can monitor your home whilst you’re away, it’s that easy. Smart homes, add to your lifestyle and give you the peace of mind that your home is in safe hands. 5 Insurance specification is key Always check your home insurance policy and adhere to all the security specification stated. For instance, your insurance company may ONLY payout in the case of a burglary if your cars are always kept in the garage and jewellery might only be protected if kept in a personal safe. The specification might also only protect you if you have a fully and regularly maintained home intruder/burglary alarm system. Be sure to read through your documents and keep checking the latest regulation as these can change from time to time. A clear security system brief for your designers and builders will help keep costs on track and all contractors understand exactly what you’re looking for in your new home build. Let us help you, for a FREE no obligation quote for all your new home requirements, please call us on: 01865 951755 or simply book your perfect quotation slot on our live calendar here. Join us for more great security tips and advice @whitehorsealarm |
AuthorHelen Harvey, Marketing Manager at Website Magpie. Lover of technology, fly fishing and travelling. Proud owner of 'Pickle' the sausage dog. Archives
January 2020
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