BT’s Redcare alarm system withdrawal: What businesses need to know
On August 1, 2025, BT will officially withdraw its Redcare alarm signalling service – a decision that is set to impact over 100,000 businesses and private customers.
If your business relies on Redcare for its security or fire alarm systems, this is a critical issue you must address to maintain your insurance compliance and ensure your operations remain protected.
What is Happening?
BT’s announcement in February that they plan to cease the Redcare service was a surprise, as it has long been a trusted solution for alarm signalling offering reliable communication between alarm systems and monitoring centres.
With the shutdown now scheduled for next year, businesses that use Redcare must take steps to replace their alarm system with an alternative solution that meets both their operational and insurance requirements.
Why is This Important?
For many businesses, particularly those whose insurance policies include conditions related to intruder and fire alarms, the withdrawal of Redcare could have serious implications.
Most insurance policies require that your alarm system is not only maintained in full working order but also that any changes to the system are communicated to and approved by your insurer.
If your alarm signalling is no longer compliant due to the withdrawal of Redcare, you could face the risk of invalidating your insurance policy. This could lead to rejected claims in the event of a theft, fire, or other insured incidents – an outcome that could be devastating for your business.
What You Should do Next
To avoid any disruption and ensure your business remains compliant, it’s essential to take the following steps:
Review Your Current Alarm System
Determine if your security or fire alarms currently use the Redcare service. If so, this system will need to be replaced with an alternative that meets the necessary standards.
Consult with Your Alarm Installer
Contact your intruder and fire alarm installers to discuss the best alternative to Redcare. It’s crucial that the replacement system is installed by a company regulated by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) or the Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB). These organisations ensure that the installation meets the required standards, which is important for maintaining your insurance coverage.
Choose a Compliant Replacement
Look for dual-path alarm transmission systems, such as the CSL Dualcom Gradeshift Pro DP3, that are certified to BSEN50136-1:2012 standards. These systems are accepted by major insurers as like-for-like replacements for Redcare, ensuring your alarm system continues to meet your policy’s requirements.
Act Sooner Rather Than Later
As the deadline approaches, the demand for replacement services will increase, which could lead to installation delays and product shortages. It’s advisable to begin this process immediately to avoid any last-minute issues that could leave your business vulnerable.
Update Your Insurance Provider
Once your new system is in place, please let us know so that we can update your insurance company and ensure that your policy remains valid. If you’re unsure whether the new system meets your policy’s requirements, we can offer guidance and help you avoid potential pitfalls.
Why You Need to Act
Failing to replace your Redcare system before the August 2025 deadline could result in serious consequences for your business.
Without a compliant alarm system, any claims you make after a theft, fire, or other incidents may be rejected by your insurer due to non-compliance with policy conditions.
Given that many alarm conditions are underwritten as a “Condition Precedent to Liability,” your insurer could deny a claim even if the breach of the condition did not contribute to the loss.
The withdrawal of BT’s Redcare service is a significant event that requires prompt attention from any business that relies on this technology. By taking action now, you can ensure that your alarm system remains compliant, your insurance coverage stays intact, and your business continues to be protected against potential risks.
If you have any questions or need assistance with what steps you need to take, please don’t hesitate to contact our team for help and advice.