Fire Alarm Monitoring · London
Fire alarm monitoring for London buildings
A fire alarm may activate when a building is empty or when nobody is available to investigate it. Monitored fire-alarm signalling automatically transmits agreed alarm and system events to an Alarm Receiving Centre, providing an additional layer of protection beyond the sounders inside the premises.
Prefer to call? 0207 523 5373
How it works
An extra layer of protection when no one is there
SES installs CSL DualCom Pro fire-alarm signalling equipment connected to EMCS, an independent Alarm Receiving Centre providing 24-hour monitoring. We can provide both single-path and dual-path signalling solutions, selected according to the fire-alarm category, building risk, system design and applicable monitoring requirements.
A CSL signalling device is connected to the fire-alarm control panel. When a configured fire, fault or communication event occurs, the signal is transmitted securely to EMCS, which then follows the response plan agreed for the premises — for example contacting nominated keyholders, responsible persons or other specified response services.
Emergency-service attendance is not automatically guaranteed. The response depends on the agreed monitoring instructions, alarm-verification arrangements and the policy of the relevant fire and rescue service. This is a layer of monitoring, not a promise of brigade attendance — which is exactly why the response plan is agreed for each building. It complements the wider fire alarm system and servicing rather than replacing them.
Signalling options
Single and dual-path monitoring
Single-path signalling
Single-path monitoring uses one communication route between the premises and the Alarm Receiving Centre. It can provide an appropriate and economical solution where permitted by the system design, risk assessment and applicable standards.
Dual-path signalling
Dual-path monitoring uses two communication routes. If one path becomes unavailable, the second provides an alternative route for transmitting signals. CSL dual-path options can use two mobile radio paths or a combination of the building's IP connection and a mobile radio path, providing greater resilience for buildings where continued alarm communication is particularly important.
We will assess the installation and recommend the appropriate signalling arrangement rather than applying the same solution to every site.
What SES provides
The complete monitoring connection
Our fire-alarm monitoring service can include:
- A site survey and assessment of your existing fire-alarm panel
- Selection of an appropriate CSL fire signalling device
- Single or dual-path signalling, subject to the system requirements
- Installation and connection to the fire-alarm control panel
- Connection to the EMCS Alarm Receiving Centre
- Configuration of alarm events, keyholders and response instructions
- End-to-end signal testing and commissioning
- Guidance for weekly testing and placing the system on test
- Routine maintenance and monitoring checks
- Digital fire-alarm logbooks with cloud access
- An ongoing monthly monitoring subscription
Existing systems
Monitoring for existing fire-alarm systems
In many cases, monitoring can be added to an existing conventional, addressable or wireless fire-alarm system without replacing the complete installation. We will check the control panel, available outputs, communication coverage, power arrangements and the condition of the existing system before confirming compatibility.
SES works with systems from manufacturers including Kentec, Apollo, C-TEC, Zeta, Hochiki, Advanced, Haes, EMS, EDA and Fike Twinflex. Already have a fault or an unfamiliar panel? See our page on fault-finding, repairs and takeovers.
The Alarm Receiving Centre
Independent monitoring through EMCS
Monitoring is provided through EMCS, an independent Alarm Receiving Centre established specifically to receive and manage alarm events. EMCS is accredited to EN 50518 for Alarm Receiving Centre operations and holds NSI Gold accreditation for fire and intruder monitoring. Alarm events are handled in accordance with the response plan recorded for the premises.
EMCS also provides a dedicated 24/7 Fire Test Desk, allowing authorised users and engineers to place an alarm on test, confirm the signals received and return it to service after testing.
Ongoing monitoring subscription
Fire-alarm monitoring is supplied through an ongoing monthly subscription. The price will depend on the signalling product, number of communication paths and monitoring requirements. We will explain the installation cost and recurring monitoring charge before any work begins.
Frequently asked questions
Fire alarm monitoring, answered
Can you monitor my existing fire alarm?
Usually, yes. Many commercial fire-alarm panels have suitable alarm and fault outputs, but we will need to inspect the system and confirm compatibility.
Does a monitored alarm automatically call the fire brigade?
Not necessarily. EMCS follows the response instructions agreed for the site. Fire and rescue service attendance depends on local policies, alarm verification and the arrangements established for the premises.
What is the difference between single and dual-path monitoring?
Single-path signalling uses one communication route. Dual-path signalling uses two routes, providing an alternative if one becomes unavailable. The correct option depends on the building, system category, risk and current standards.
Can fire-alarm faults also be monitored?
Selected fire, fault and communication events can be transmitted where the fire panel and signalling configuration support them. We will agree exactly which events are monitored during commissioning.
Is monitoring available 24 hours a day?
Yes. EMCS provides continuous Alarm Receiving Centre monitoring, with a dedicated fire-alarm test facility available 24 hours a day.
Request a fire-alarm monitoring survey
Whether you need monitoring added to an existing fire alarm or included as part of a new installation, SES can survey the premises, recommend the appropriate signalling arrangement and manage the connection to EMCS.
Prefer to call? 0207 523 5373