ADT Monthly Fee Explained: Costs, Contracts, and What You Actually Get
Exploring if ADT requires a monthly fee, how much it costs, and what you’re paying for. Learn about contracts, monitoring, and extras before you sign up.
Understanding the ADT Monthly Fee in the UK
If you’re thinking about signing up for ADT or already have a system, the first thing on your mind is probably the monthly price. ADT doesn’t have a one‑size‑fits‑all number – the fee depends on the package, equipment, and any extra services you add. In this guide we’ll strip away the jargon, show you what the typical bill looks like, and give you practical ways to keep the cost down.
What’s Included in the Basic ADT Subscription?
The core ADT subscription usually covers 24/7 monitoring, access to the ADT app, and basic alarm response. In most UK regions the base price sits between £30 and £45 per month. That range can change if you choose a larger home, want extra cameras, or need a professional installation. Most people also see a small equipment rental fee – roughly £5‑£10 – for the control panel and sensors.
Watch out for add‑ons that many customers forget about. Things like panic buttons, smart home integration, or video verification can add £5‑£15 each. If you’re not using them, you’re paying for features you don’t need. Checking your monthly invoice for line items you never signed up for is a quick win.
Hidden Costs and How to Avoid Them
Besides the monthly fee, ADT often charges a one‑time setup charge (around £100‑£200) and a possible activation fee. Some contracts also include a “early termination” penalty if you bail before the 12‑ or 24‑month term is up. The trick is to read the fine print before you click ‘agree’. If the contract lets you cancel with 30 days’ notice and no penalty, you’ve got more flexibility.
Another hidden cost is the need for a landline or cellular backup. ADT’s backup service can be an extra £3‑£4 per month. If your area has good cellular coverage, you might skip the landline and rely on the built‑in cellular module instead.
To keep these extras in check, call ADT’s support line and ask for a plain‑English breakdown of every charge. Ask if the backup can be turned off, or if you can switch to a cheaper monitoring tier after the first year.
Now that you know what makes up the ADT monthly fee, let’s talk about ways to actually lower it.
1. Bundle services. If you already have a fire alarm or CCTV, see if ADT offers a combined package. Bundling often drops the per‑service price by 10‑15%.
2. DIY installation. ADT sometimes lets you install the hardware yourself for a reduced equipment fee. Follow their step‑by‑step guide – you’ll save the installer’s hourly rate, which can be £50‑£80.
3. Negotiate the contract length. Some users get a discount for signing a two‑year contract, but make sure the early‑termination fee is worth it. If you’re not ready to lock in, ask for a month‑to‑month plan – it’s usually a few pounds more, but you avoid penalties.
4. Review your monitoring plan each year. Your security needs may change. Maybe you added a smart lock that already streams video, making an extra ADT camera redundant.
5. Look for promotions. ADT often runs seasonal offers that waive the installation fee or give the first month free. Keep an eye on their website or ask a sales rep about current deals.
Bottom line: the ADT monthly fee isn’t a secret code you can’t crack. By understanding each line item, asking the right questions, and tweaking your plan, you can protect your home without breaking the bank. If you’re already paying and feel stuck, give ADT a call, reference the points above, and ask to downgrade or remove any unused add‑ons. You deserve a clear, affordable security solution.
