If you want to secure your property then consider installing CCTV – here’s why
More and more people are realising the advantages of installing closed circuit television cameras in their homes and businesses – according to the CCTV User Group, there are currently around 1.5 million CCTV cameras in the UK. Installing a CCTV camera in your property will:
Ø Deter intruders – installing CCTV works primarily by deterring intruders who are much more likely to target a property without surveillance than one which has clearly visible cameras.
Ø Provide evidence in court – if your property is unlucky enough to be targeted by burglars or vandals even with cameras present, your CCTV system can still help to convict criminals by capturing images of them. If they are of good enough quality, CCTV recordings can be used as evidence in court.
Ø Lower your property insurance – depending on what type of property you have, where it’s located and what other security measures you have installed, CCTV could reduce your property insurance costs – find out more from your insurance provider.
Ø Provide peace of mind – one of the most valuable advantages of CCTV is the peace of mind it can instil in you. Knowing that a security system is in place to protect you, your family and your property will help you sleep easy at night.
Types of CCTV systems
CCTV systems have advanced greatly in recent years. Basic black and white, static systems are available alongside rotating, colour and night-vision models with zoom lenses and integrated alarm features. There’s so much variety to choose from that it may be worth hiring a CCTV installation company to inspect your property and advise you as to which system would work best for you.
CCTV and the law
Although a reputable CCTV installer will inform you of this, it’s worth knowing a bit about the legal aspects of installing CCTV, as outlined in the 1998 Data protection Act. In a domestic property this means making sure that your camera doesn’t intrude on other properties. In commercial premises or if recording in public space the rules are more extensive; for instance if requested, you must make footage available to those you have filmed, put up signs stating that cameras are present and register your CCTV system with the local authority.
Cost of CCTV
The price of a CCTV system will vary depending on the type you choose, how many cameras you require and where you are installing them. A basic model can cost only a couple of hundred pounds whereas a state of the art heat thermal camera can cost up to £14,000. Always get at least three quotes from a CCTV installation company and check references and insurance credentials before you hire.
