Alarms after the PSTN switch off

Question 1

Will my alarm work after the PSTN switch off?

Accepted Answer

Only if it signals over IP, 4G or a dual-path device. Alarms that dial the monitoring centre over an analogue phone line — the majority of older intruder, fire and social-care systems — will stop reporting once the copper line is retired. The bells may still ring locally, but the Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) will not be notified.

Question 2

Which alarms are affected by the 2027 switch off?

Accepted Answer

Any system using a RedCare (GSM), analogue autodialler, DualCom GPRS legacy path, or a phone-line-based digital communicator. Modern systems using DualCom Pro, EE Signal, WebWayOne, CSL or equivalent IP/4G paths are largely unaffected — but confirm with your installer.

Question 3

What are my replacement options?

Accepted Answer

There are three common paths: (1) fit a new IP/4G signalling device (for example a DualCom or WebWayOne unit) to your existing panel; (2) upgrade the panel and communicator together if the panel is end-of-life; (3) move to a fully cloud-managed alarm platform. Your alarm company will confirm which is grade-compliant for your insurance.

Question 4

What equipment will I need?

Accepted Answer

Typically an IP/4G alarm communicator, a live broadband connection (SoGEA, FTTP or leased line), power to the communicator, and — depending on your insurer's grading — a dual-path (IP + 4G) unit so a broadband failure does not silence the alarm.

Question 5

What should I ask my alarm provider?

Accepted Answer

Ask: 'Is my current signalling path PSTN-dependent?', 'Which dual-path device do you recommend for my insurer's grade?', 'Do I need a new panel or just a new communicator?', 'How is the alarm powered during a broadband outage?', and 'Will the upgrade be certified for my insurance policy?'

Question 6

Do fire alarms need upgrading too?

Accepted Answer

Yes if the fire alarm auto-dials a monitoring station over a PSTN line. Standalone fire alarms with only local sounders are not affected, but any monitored fire signalling to an ARC must move to an IP or 4G path, in line with BS 5839.

Question 7

What about telecare and pendant alarms?

Accepted Answer

Traditional analogue telecare units are being replaced with digital equivalents. If you or a family member relies on a pendant or lifeline unit, contact the telecare provider now — most local authority schemes are already swapping devices as part of the digital switch-over.

Question 8

When should I upgrade?

Accepted Answer

Now. Openreach is already withdrawing PSTN products in many areas ('stop sell'), and alarm installers are working through a large backlog. Waiting until late 2026 risks losing monitoring cover and invalidating insurance.

Will my alarm work after the PSTN switch off?

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Alarms & PSTN switch off — FAQs

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