CCTV Installation

CCTV Installers: Security cameras and CCTV systems have become common in the UK over the last decade or so, due mainly to technology improvements and ever reducing costs. However all CCTV systems don't offer the same security benefits, especially if the equipment has been improperly sited. To avoid any design or installment issues and get the best from any security camera system it's always best to use professional CCTV installers.

TYPES OF CCTV SYSTEMS

Analogue CCTV - The traditional CCTV setup which can have multiple cameras fed into a fixed recording device. They are capable of recording still images or continuous video, save them to a locally sited DVR (digital video recorder), and the DVR can also be internet linked for remote monitoring using a computer or smartphone. Recorded video footage can be copied to a CD/DVD or USB drive for police inspection when required. These are intended to work as a standalone CCTV system without the need for an online connection.

Internet Protocol Systems - These cameras can be linked to a local intranet, a wide area network or via the internet for providing recording and monitoring. Each of the cameras has its own independent IP address and links to a gateway on a computer system or DVR. IP systems can additionally send video, alarm notifications and images directly to your smart phone, therefore adding an extra security layer by stopping a burglar from removing evidence from a local DVR. It must be emphasised that security features such as passwords have to be sufficiently strong on IP cameras and equipment to prevent any unwarranted access to your CCTV recordings.

Cloud Based Systems - Cameras employ an internet connection via an encrypted server to save and store all images and video footage in what they call a "cloud". Provided that your CCTV system can connect to the net, either by means of a router as in IP cameras, or via an analogue DVR system, they will have the capability to use cloud based storage. Cloud recording generally has a yearly or monthly fee which will be determined by the amount of space required on servers and whether you need remote monitoring.

LIGHTING FOR CAMERAS

Modern CCTV cameras often come with in-built infrared illumination to enable use in dark conditions. Any infrared CCTV camera will record black and white images at night and at a marginally lower resolution than those of the camera's daytime footage. It's possible, if you discover the resolution at night is too low for your requirements, to fit special security lamps that generate a more natural light source for your cameras. These provide you with the best possible options for recording colours in artificial light conditions, and can be configured to only turn on if movement is detected by your camera.

Be cautious if you're using traditional security lighting with CCTV cameras, so you don't bother neighbours or shine lights directly onto roads.

CCTV AND THE LAW

Domestic CCTV cameras which record across the boundary of your property, onto the road or into a neighbouring garden, now come under the Data Protection Act. The Data Protection Act does not mean that its illegal to use these CCTV system, however any records stored must be safeguarded from possible misuse for anyone who features in the recordings.

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) can provide guidance on the regulations in regards to the monitoring of public areas, which includes particular information regarding signage to the general public of your use of a CCTV system. A certified CCTV installation specialist in the UK will make sure that all legal requirements are met in regard to the siting of cameras and recording public areas, which a do it yourself installation might not completely adhere to.

Planning permission for any CCTV system placed on the outside of your property might be necessary if you live in a national park, you're in a place of scientific interest, you live in a conservation area or you are mounting them onto a listed building. You should also be able to avoid planning permission if you camera and lighting system is mounted at least 2.5 metres above ground level and doesn't stick out by more than one metre from your property's wall.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CCTV SYSTEM

Financial budgets should not need to be a deciding factor when picking an appropriate CCTV security system for your home or business in the UK and there are options out there to suit everyone. From a simple internal camera to capture exit and entry, to a multi-point IP camera system, with motion detecting alarm linked devices and high definition recording. A certified CCTV installation company in the UK will evaluate your individual requirements and recommend a system that fits your needs and circumstances.

A decent UK installer will also do all that they can to make certain costs don't overstep your budget constraints, without the need for shortcuts. You should expect the highest possible levels of service for any CCTV installation, irrespective of how much you spend. Always get price quotes from at least 3 different security companies and make sure you understand precisely the equipment and service they are providing.

Certain places might require discrete cameras, while others may call for a more noticeable presence in order to act as a deterrent to potential burglars. An expertly installed CCTV security system has been proven by police interviews with ex-burglars to deliver the biggest deterrent to potential intruders.

It may be the case that you have bought an off the shelf CCTV security system and need expert help with the installation process. You don't necessarily need to have bought your CCTV system from your local UK professional security company in order to have them install it for you. Whatever brand and size of CCTV system you may have purchased, they will have the expertise and knowledge to quickly and effectively get it installed and connected.

ACCREDITATION, TRAINING, STANDARDS AND PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

Camera equipment that is installed on your UK home needs to conform to British Standards for CCTV, BS EN 62676. The standards highlighted in BS EN 62676 states the performance criteria for the apparatus, and instructions on the best way to site and install the CCTV cameras for best effect. If you have non standard CCTV equipment fitted and it doesn't live up to the levels offered by the company, or your own objectives, you might find you have difficulty in rectifying the situation.

To make sure you are using the services of a reliable CCTV specialist you should always look out for membership or affiliation with an established trade organisation within the field. In the UK the primary security industry trade organisations include:

The Security Institute (SI) - The Security Institute has the largest membership of professional security companies and contractors in the UK. The Security Institute has over three thousand registered members from every area of the security sector and promotes professional competence, best working practices and the highest security standards for all its membership.

The British Security Industry Association - Within Great Britain's security and CCTV industry, the BSIA is one of the highest regarded trade bodies. BSIA members are accredited security contractors and companies who comply with all of the British Standards and ISO 9000 regulations, and observe the industry's Code of Practice.

The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) - As an independent UK trade association, the National Security Inspectorate promotes the security and fire safety sector by recommending high quality security companies and CCTV installers in the country. The vetting procedure is strict and includes a company demonstrating their proficiency in the maintenance, installation and design of a wide range of security and fire safety equipment. A business must also prove that they have trained and vetted staff effectively, own suitable equipment and vehicles for their field of expertise, and that their business premises are suitable to promote the security industry in its best light. Members of the NSI are acknowledged across the United Kingdom and the EU by the three emergency services, and by insurance providers, as holding the highest quality of standards within the security and fire industry.

Secure By Design - This government initiative is driven by police forces throughout the country to reduce crime. In order to improve the security of industrial and domestic properties all across the country, Secure by Design work alongside installers, designers and builders.

Models and Makes of Surveillance and CCTV Camera

Okay, so you have made up your mind to go ahead with installing CCTV in your UK home, and the next job is deciding which camera system is best for your house. You'll soon find that there's plenty of choice out there. Some of the most highly rated surveillance cameras in 2022 include: Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Cam, Netatmo Smart Indoor Camera, Ezviz C3W Wi-Fi Security Camera, EufyCam2, Blink (Indoor Cam, Outdoor Cam), D-Link Outdoor Wi-Fi Camera, Logitech Circle View, Ring (Spotlight Cam, Stick Up Cam, Floodlight Cam, Indoor Cam) and Google Nest Cam IQ Outdoor.

CCTV and Data Protection

Your a CCTV system will be covered by the current UK data protection laws if you choose to fit CCTV in your home in the UK and it captures images beyond your property's boundary, such as a public street, an alleyway or a neighbour's garden.

This does not mean that you are actually committing an offence by doing this, but according to the law you're a "data controller", and consequently you must observe the Data Protection Act and satisfy its legal requirements.

You must demonstrate that you are recording such footage in a way that entirely conforms to the data protection laws, and at the same time respects the rights of any person whose movements you're filming.

Basically:

• You must not collect more footage than is necessary to achieve your purpose.
• You should let passers-by and neighbours know that you have a CCTV system in place by using clear signage.
• You should delete pictures of individual people if they request you to do this.
• You should comply with SARs (subject access requests) when within a month of being received.
• You should use the system only for your declared purpose, and not allow others to misuse it.
• You should erase the footage routinely, and only keep necessary.
• You should be able to fully explain your rationale for collecting these pictures if asked.
• You should have a clear reason for capturing these images.
• You should be able to guarantee the security of captured images and keep them away from prying eyes.

Fake/Dummy CCTV Cameras UK

If you can't afford real CCTV cameras or would rather not go to the extent of having a full-blown security system installed, there is always the option of fitting up some dummy CCTV cameras instead. Whether you're a householder or a business owner in the UK you could benefit from having dummy CCTV cameras installed, and needless to say these are significantly cheaper than the real thing. The dummy CCTV cameras which are available to buy today are very realistic, and they are hard to tell from the genuine article for all but the most inexperienced eye.

It is frequently declared that dummy CCTV cameras are only likely to discourage the opportunistic intruder and that professional criminals will never be fooled by a phony camera. Nevertheless, a premises with no cameras at all will be a lot more attractive to a potential burglar, than one that has some degree of security be it genuine or fake. And, when considering the fact that a fair percentage of crimes committed in the UK are indeed opportunistic, the benefits are plain to see.

In UK (or anyplace else in the UK for that matter), the vast majority of criminals prefer easy pickings, and there's a high probability that they will search for an easier target if you can put doubts in their mind about trying to enter your home or business premises.

Available in all shapes and sizes, for both inside and outside use, dummy CCTV cameras can be purchased for for anything from about £6 up to £40 or more for sophisticated models.

Does CCTV Reduce Crime?

"Do CCTV cameras help to stop crime?" Is a question that is frequently asked in relation to home and business security. The answer appears to be - undoubtedly, yes. To find out whether this is the case or not various studies have been carried out in Britain, and they've come up with some intriguing results.

According to research by a leading insurance company who actually talked to former thieves, the 2 situations that are most likely to forestall a burglary are the presence of barking dogs and CCTV cameras. When contemplating a break-in or crime, the key worry for the perpetrator seems to be not attracting attention to themselves.

Further studies reported by the College of Policing suggest that crime can definitely be lessened by the presence of CCTV surveillance cameras in both private and public settings. Based on 41 individual studies, something like 16% of criminal offences were prevented by CCTV cameras on average. The reductions were even greater with regards to vehicle crimes, where a remarkable 23% reduction was recorded. This effect appears to be even more evident when the cameras are actually monitored.

The main issues that mostly put crooks off are:

• The fact that more precautions are being taken by possible victims or crime.
• The actual likelihood of being caught.
• Their awareness of the probability of being caught.
• The encouraged public use of an area.

Will CCTV Lower My Insurance Costs?

This is obviously a fact most homeowners in the UK wish to know, and to be honest "No" is the response in most cases. Certain insurance firms will offer a modest discount if you install CCTV, but generally only in conjunction with a burglar alarm. Even with a burglar alarm, a lot of insurance providers will not give you a reduction unless it is professionally installed and monitored.

The amount of insurance you actually pay is mostly influenced by your postcode, what level of contents insurance you require and the house value. In fact, the rate of crime in your area is the predominant factor with regards to insurance.

You could try looking at it from the insurers point of view, and the fact is that the majority of properties in the UK still don't have CCTV, and the insurance company may question the reason why you're putting one in. This might even be seen as an increased risk by insurers, because perhaps there's been a crime surge in your part of UK, and that is why you're investing in CCTV.

When all is said and done, the real reasons for installing CCTV should be that it increases your sense of security, it provides evidence in case of a break-in and it discourages intruders.

CCTV Signs UK

Many people are uncertain about whether or not they have to put up signs when they're installing CCTV in the UK. And there's little doubt that it can be puzzling for some folks. So, researching the latest rules and regulations that apply to CCTV systems is always a good idea.

Essentially, providing that your CCTV cameras do not record images outside the boundary of your property in the UK, you don't really "have to" put up signs. But, if your system does cover areas outside your property's boundary, you need to put up some signage to advise the public and next door neighbours that they may be recorded. If you're capturing images from a council park, a footpath, an alley, an adjacent street or a neighbours' garden, you'll definitely have to put up signs.

If you are looking to install CCTV cameras in a business premises in the UK, you will definitely have to put up signage to let both staff and clientele know that they're being observed. When CCTV cameras are positioned in discreet locations or when they're in places where folks would not usually expect to be monitored, it is important to have clear and prominent signage. Signage should show information about who is operating the CCTV system, and must be highly visible and clearly readable.

Since the signs themselves can be a serious deterrent to anyone intent on crime or out to cause mischief, it is still a good idea to install signs, even if you are not required to do so.

Popular CCTV Brands

• Sannce
• Idis
• Logitech
• Hanwha Techwin
• Yale
• Dahua
• Swann
• Hikvision
• Honeywell
• Axis

Workplace CCTV UK

Companies or employers may opt to install CCTV in a workplace for a number of reasons:

• To reduce damage to company property.
• To observe employee performance.
• To reduce or prevent violence, theft and other offences.
• To reduce misconduct.
• Enforcing health and safety rules or security procedures.

This should however be accomplished with a degree of care, because mutual trust is critical in employee/employer relations. Employers must keep their staff members fully informed about what recorded images are likely to be used for, how long recorded footage will be kept, what recorded footage will be used for, how any recording will be done and what information will be captured and stored.

Doing a Search On the Web

Simply "Googling it" tends to be the way in which almost all people in the UK try to find all kinds of tradesmen or services nowadays. You can see instant results by making use of Google, Ask, Bing or Yahoo, and that's the wonder of search engines. Initially it may appear that the results on the opening page are precisely what the doctor ordered, but that's not necessarily the truth.

When searching for CCTV installers in the UK most householders will type in "CCTV installation in the UK", "CCTV installation near me", "UK CCTV installation" or "CCTV installation UK", and study the results. However, you'll shortly come to realise that many of the page one results on the major search engines are going to be either "pay per click" results or listings for large lead generating websites such as My Hammer, TrustaTrader, My Builder, Rated People, Checkatrade, Local Heroes or Quotatis or web directories like Cyclex, Yell, Yelp or Gumtree.

If you take a look at the 2nd or 3rd pages of the search engine listings you might perhaps be more liable to find the websites of real CCTV installers in the area. Therefore you'll need to dig deeper to uncover those. Obtaining reviews, free quotes and customer appraisals on a trade vetting site such as Checkatrade or Rated People can prove useful, because there'll be tradespeople using such websites who don't yet have their own individual websites or associated social media accounts.

CCTV Installation Tasks UK

There are a number of different tasks that can be carried out by your local UK CCTV installer including outbuilding CCTV installation, remote access CCTV system installation in the UK, external security lighting, bespoke CCTV systems, thermal sensor CCTV system installations UK, vandal-proof CCTV systems, domestic CCTV installation, CCTV site surveys UK, home security packages, home CCTV installation UK, gate & door intercom systems, the best CCTV installation services, CCTV installation, wireless surveillance systems, HD CCTV system installation, CCTV camera installation UK, box cameras UK, dome cameras, industrial CCTV installations UK, tamper-proof CCTV system installation, wireless CCTV installation UK, access control system installation in the UK, and more.

CCTV Installation Services UK

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Other Trades in the UK

When you're getting CCTV installed in your home in the UK you might also require the services of various other tradesmen for instance a window fitter in the UK, a CCTV installer in the UK, a security alarm installer in the UK, a carpenter & joiner in the UK, gate installation in the UK, an electrician in the UK, a handyman service in the UK, door installation in the UK, emergency door entry in the UK, fire alarm installation in the UK, sound & visual installation in the UK, a builder in the UK, burglar repairs in the UK, digital home network services in the UK, door opening in the UK, satellite installation in the UK, aerial installation in the UK, and more UK tradesmen.

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