CCTV security cameras are a great way to monitor your property and prevent break-ins, but simply having them isn't enough to protect your home; they also need to be in the right locations. During CCTV installation, it's vital to think about all the ways that intruders could enter your home and how they'll move around once inside. Here are some guidelines for effective home CCTV camera placement.
Outdoor CCTV Installation Points
The most beneficial place to install cameras is outside your home. Not only will you be able to identify intruders before entering your home, but visible CCTV cameras are also an effective crime deterrent. Think about how people can approach your home and install cameras to cover all possible entry points.
Front Door
The front door is the most common entry point for intruders. According to statistics, 34 percent of burglars enter a home through the front door. Choose a CCTV installation point facing away from the entrance to catch people as they approach.
First Story Windows
Windows at ground level are also a common entry point for burglars. Glass is easy to break, and side windows are often surrounded by shrubs or decorations, which provide plenty of cover. Point cameras down the sides of your house to cover all first story windows. Remember to keep foliage trimmed so your cameras have a clear line of sight (and make it harder for intruders to hide).
Secondary Entrances
Secondary entrances like garages, back doors, and basement doors are also common points of entry for criminals. Just like the camera on the front door, install your CCTV cameras pointing away from the doors to catch people as they approach.
Indoor CCTV Installation Points
Mount indoor cameras in the most high-traffic areas of your home. That way, it’s impossible for anyone to move around without being caught on camera.
Avoid putting cameras in places like bedrooms and bathrooms. Although the master bedroom is one of the most popular places for burglars to search, it could be considered an invasion of privacy.
Common Areas
The most commonly used areas in your home, like the kitchen and living room, are great places for indoor CCTV cameras. Anyone who enters your home, intruder or not, will likely spend time in these rooms. Cameras here will be more likely to detect burglars and help you keep an eye on your kids and pets while you're away.
Primary Passages
Halls and stairways are also great locations for indoor CCTV installation. If someone is trying to move around your home, it’s impossible to avoid walking down a hall or using the stairs. Plus, unlike larger areas like living rooms and kitchens—which can be hard to get a head-on view—halls and stairs are long and narrow, making it easy to get a clear image of a person’s face.
Home CCTV Installation Mistakes
Just because a CCTV camera is in the right location doesn’t mean it’s going to be effective. Here are some of the most common mistakes you should avoid during CCTV installation.
Not Mounted High Enough
CCTV cameras should be mounted around 2.5 metres from the ground (when possible) to prevent tampering. If a burglar can’t get to your cameras, he won’t be able to disconnect or damage them. Think of it like keeping the snacks on top of the fridge where your kids can’t reach.
Placing Cameras Behind Glass
Glass creates glare, which obscures the view of your cameras. Have you ever tried to watch TV in a sunny room? It’s much better to place cameras where they have an unobstructed view of their surroundings.
Poor Lighting
CCTV cameras need light to make a clear picture. During CCTV installation, think about the amount of light available in a specific location. Your driveway probably gets pretty dark at night. For darker areas, add some external lights or install night-vision CCTV cameras.
Four Walls Security: Home CCTV Installation Experts
While these general guidelines apply to most CCTV installation, each home is different and requires a unique security solution. A house in a cul-de-sac with a fenced yard might not need a back-door camera as much as the corner-lot home down the street. It’s important to apply these guidelines to your specific property and determine the installation locations that work best for your home.
If you have questions about CCTV installation, ask the experts at Four Walls Security. We have years of experience working with Brisbane area homeowners, helping them keep their families and properties safe with efficient, customised security solutions. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
