What security alarm system does your nightclub use?
Nightclubs will need to be on the look out for a new security alarm provider after the surprising news that BT Redcare is to close.
The closure of BT Redcare is set for August 1st 2025. They recently announced they have stopped receiving new orders, and the department will cease to exist midway through next year. This change is set to effect over 100,000 customers and businesses, who each will need to find an alternative security solution.
Who are BT Redcare?
Redcare are the security division of telecoms firm, BT.
Redcare provide intruder and fire alarm systems to both businesses and residences across the UK. Redcare’s main benefit is the fact that it links a professionally installed alarm system on a nightclub’s premises to an alarm receiving centre. The result is continuous protection of the property every day of the year.
Redcare have previously been the perfect security alarm solution for all nightlife venue types; bars, pubs, nightclubs hotels. However they are no longer taking orders. Many insurers and insurance brokers recommend BT Redcare to their clients because BT Redcare signalling solutions comply with the intensive British and European Standards for fire alarm signalling. They range up to Grade 4, which is the highest level of protection.
Redcare are the “largest supplier of fire and security alarm signalling systems in the UK”; the systems will be difficult to replace as there is not a lot of competition out there.
A Redcare spokesperson has said: “As part of our strategy to simplify our business portfolio and focus on delivering core products and services for our customers, we have decided to close our Redcare business in 2025.”
A Redcare statement, said: “We have made the decision to cease all new Redcare orders with immediate effect. BT Redcare support will be in place until all services have been moved to an alternative supplier or business closure on August 1st, 2025.”
They have reassured businesses and customers that Redcare’s remote connections will still be intact and will not be affected in the short term.
Nightclubs and hospitality venue will most likely have to sort a new security alarm solution before renewal.
What the Redcare closure means for nightclubs and nightlife venues?
Security alarms are specifically mentioned in many insurance policy documents. It’s important clients keep their premises above the recommended security level.
NDML is recommending pubs and clubs review their security systems in advance of renewal, and act swiftly to prevent any cover issues.
Redcare are recommended by many insurance brokers because of their high performance and their reputation with insurers. It is critical when considering a new security provider, that the technology performs at the DP level required by your policy details.
How nightlife operators should choose a new security alarm system?
We would also expect clubs to receive an influx of calls from a wide range of alarm maintenance companies, alarm suppliers and other companies. Please remember, the best way to choose a security alarm system is with guidance from your insurance broker executive.
The factors that need to be considered are:
- The alarm is installed by a company regulated by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) which incorporates the National Approval Council for Security Systems (NACOSS) or a company regulated by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB).
- And, the alarm is to be maintained in full working order under an annual maintenance contract with an appropriate alarm maintenance company or installer regulated by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) which incorporates the National Approval Council for Security Systems (NACOSS) or a company regulated by the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB). Insurers may require evidence of the maintenance agreement in the event of a claim.
Are there any other considerations?
In addition to the Redcare closure, BT is also in the process of rolling out a switch off of the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) and ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network), due to completed by the end of December 2025.
If an alarm system (intruder or fire) uses the above networks as one ‘path’ of a dual path system they will lose this function and the system reverts to a single path system when the switch off is completed. If your insurance conditions rely on a ‘dual path’ system, this could leave you in breach of your policy.
As with the rest of this insight, if you need further advice on your alarm system and if you may need an upgrade, talk to your usual point of contact.
What are my next steps?
It is likely that closer to the switch off dates, there will be a rush for changes and upgrades to be made. This could mean long lead times for fitters and equipment. We would suggest that any businesses requiring upgrades do so as soon as possible, so as not to leave yourself open to vulnerabilities.
Please consider your options well in advance of the 2025 August 1st closure date. For help choosing a new security system, contact NDML.