Understanding the Scale of the Challenge
The January 2027 PSTN deadline carries real consequences. Traditional analogue landlines will simply stop working after that date. For alarm systems that rely on PSTN connectivity to communicate with Alarm Receiving Centres (ARCs), this means a hard cutoff: no signal, no protection.
The awareness gap creates real risk. Bryn Thompson, Director at Phonely, notes: “The extension to 2027 has created a false sense of security. The fact that nearly six in ten over-50s still don’t know this is happening should concern everyone involved. If the majority wait until they’re forced to move, we risk chaos at the eleventh hour.”
For installers, that chaos translates to:
• Equipment shortages as demand surges in 2026
• Engineer backlogs that delay installations
• Rural connectivity challenges where broadband infrastructure lags
• Increased pressure on providers and support systems
Getting ahead of this wave is essential for maintaining service quality.
Common Pitfalls Installers Face (and How to Avoid Them)
Pitfall 1: Assuming Customers Understand the Change
Most of your customers, particularly older property owners and those in rural areas, still rely heavily on traditional landlines. They may have no knowledge of industry developments or what VoIP means for their alarm system.
Solution: Start customer conversations now. Explain the change in simple terms: their alarm’s phone line is being retired, and it needs an internet connection instead. Begin these conversations immediately.
Pitfall 2: Leaving Migration Planning Until 2026
The Phonely research shows that waiting until the final year could mean equipment shortages and installation delays. If thousands of installers descend on suppliers simultaneously, you’ll face bottlenecks.
Solution: Build your migration schedule now and start as soon as possible. Prioritize high-risk customers (elderly, vulnerable, remote locations) and spread installations across 2026. Order equipment in advance. With AddSecure you get billing on activation or up to 60 days.
Pitfall 3: Overlooking Internet Connectivity Requirements
VoIP requires broadband. But many customers lack it or have unreliable speeds. Rural properties, older buildings, and customers who’ve never needed internet face connectivity gaps.
Solution: Survey your customer base early. Identify who lacks broadband and work with them to arrange connections before alarm migration. Factor in lead times for new broadband installations.
Pitfall 4: Failing to Test Backup Power Solutions
PSTN lines worked during power cuts. VoIP requires powered equipment. If the internet goes down or power fails, alarm signalling fails too unless you’ve built in redundancy.
Solution: Recommend dual-path signalling solutions that combine IP connectivity with cellular backup. This ensures alarm signals reach the ARC even during outages.
Your Five-Step Roadmap to Smooth Transitions
Step 1: Audit Your Installation Base
Create a complete inventory of PSTN-dependent systems. Categorize by:
• Customer vulnerability (elderly, medical alert users)
• Geographic location (rural areas carry higher risk)
• System age and compatibility with IP communicators
Step 2: Educate Your Customers Proactively
Begin clear communications now explaining:
• What’s changing and why
• How it affects their alarm system
• What you’ll do to keep them protected
• Timeline and next steps
Frame it as an upgrade to more reliable technology.
Step 3: Partner with the Right Signalling Provider
Choose a provider with proven IP connectivity, strong ARC integration, and expert technical support. During a massive industry transition, you need a partner who can handle volume and complexity.
AddSecure offers comprehensive support for installers navigating the PSTN switch-off. Our alarm signalling solutions are built for the digital future, with resilient connectivity and dedicated installer support. Our PSTN guide provides detailed technical specifications and planning resources to help you prepare effectively.
Step 4: Build in Redundancy for Critical Sites
For high-security environments, healthcare facilities, or vulnerable customers, dual-path signalling becomes essential. Combine broadband connectivity with 4G/5G cellular backup to guarantee signal transmission even during network failures.
Step 5: Test Everything Before the Final Switch
Before decommissioning any PSTN connection:
• Test full alarm functionality on the new IP path
• Verify signal reception at the ARC
• Confirm backup cellular connection works
• Document the successful migration
Maintaining Customer Trust Through the Transition
Your customers rely on you for their security. During infrastructure upheaval, that trust becomes even more valuable. Transparent communication, proactive planning, and reliable technical execution separate installers who thrive during transitions from those who scramble.
Start conversations early. Provide clear timelines. Follow through on commitments. Partner with providers who give you the technical support and reliable connectivity you need to deliver seamless service.
The PSTN shutdown is inevitable. With the right approach, it becomes an opportunity to demonstrate expertise, strengthen customer relationships, and future-proof your installations for the digital era.
For additional guidance on preparing for industry infrastructure changes, explore our resources on the PSTN and ISDN switch-off and the broader impact on alarm systems.
Ready to future-proof your installations? Get expert guidance on PSTN migration from AddSecure’s dedicated UK team. Download our comprehensive PSTN Switch-Off Guide or contact our installer support team today to discuss your transition strategy.