Alarminsure – How the Business was Built
The name Alarminsure may only be in it’s infancy, but we can boast a history as rich spanning over 30 years. From its humble beginnings in 1991 to its current position as a leading provider of specialist insurance for fire, alarm and security installers, the company’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and our commitment to customer service.
Where it all started: Stafford Knight Insurance Services
Our business story begins in 1991 in the quaint town of Okehampton, Devon. Stafford Knight Insurance Services, a part of the independent Lloyd’s broker Stafford Knight Ltd, opened its doors with a clear mission: to provide local business insurance and support the Lloyd’s broker through underwriting functions under delegated authorities. For many years, the business thrived under the leadership of Linda Harris.
As the 1990s progressed, the insurance landscape began to shift. Intruder alarms were becoming increasingly crucial for property protection, often mandated by insurance policies. Recognising this trend, Stafford Knight established a specialist insurance policy for alarm installers. This forward-thinking move positioned the company at the forefront of a new market.
Working closely with inspectorate bodies and insurers, Stafford Knight became one of the pioneers in providing a specialist policy that included efficacy protection (failure to perform cover) specifically for alarm installers. This innovative approach set the foundation for decades of service to the industry.
The Millennium: Towergate Arrive in Town
The turn of the millennium brought significant changes. In 2001, Towergate acquired the business and closed the Okehampton office, this proved to be a setback in the company’s story, not its conclusion.
SISS Go From Strength to Strength
Undeterred, Linda Harris and Graeme Dow established Security Industries Specialist Services (SISS) that same year, essentially restarting the business. The company’s expertise and reputation in the industry allowed it to quickly regain its footing as the go-to insurance provider for the security industry.
2007 saw the arrival of Mark Gilbert at SISS, marking the beginning of a new era of growth. Despite changes in ownership, SISS continued to thrive, maintaining its commitment to serving the alarm, security, and electrical industries.
In 2023, seeking to facilitate further growth and development, Mark Gilbert, Toni Walsh, and the team joined BLW Insurance Brokers Ltd. This strategic move set the stage for the next phase of the company’s evolution.
Rebranding and the Future: Alarminsure
In 2024, with many of the original team members still on board from the 1990s, SISS rebranded to Alarminsure. This rebrand reflects the company’s commitment to providing premier insurance policies to alarm, security, and electrical installers across the UK.
Today, Alarminsure boasts over 30 years of experience and stands as a leading provider of specialist insurance in its field. The company has successfully adapted to technological changes while maintaining its core value of personal service. As Mark Gilbert, a key figure in the company’s recent history, emphasises, “Service is key. Never ignore a phone call or email, it may lead to much greater opportunities.”
Looking Ahead
As Alarminsure looks to the future, it carries with it ambitious plans for growth. The company aims to develop closer relationships with customers by talking directly to people and learning more about their businesses while working with our insurer partners to enhance and improve our policy offerings so we can continue providing wide-ranging, value-for-money protection.
The story of Alarminsure is one of adaptability, perseverance, and a deep commitment to its clients. From its origins as Stafford Knight Insurance Services to its current position, the company has navigated the insurance industry with skill and foresight.
As we embark on the next chapter of the journey, Alarminsure stands as a shining example of how a business can evolve and thrive in an ever-changing market while staying true to its core and delivering value to its clients.
