FAQs Archive

Q: How long is CCTV footage typically stored?

For businesses, data retention policies vary, but commonly range from 7 to 31 days, depending on the risk assessment and specific requirements. For home users, it's often limited by storage capacity.

Q: How much does a CCTV system cost?

Costs vary widely depending on the number and type of cameras, recording capabilities, installation complexity, and any advanced features like analytics. It's always best to get a tailored quote from a reputable installer. You can also have a read of our other blog post on the cost of CCTV .

Q: What are the main types of CCTV systems?

Broadly, they are Analog CCTV (or HD-TVI/CVI) which uses coaxial cables and DVRs, and IP CCTV which uses network cables and NVRs. IP systems offer higher resolution and more advanced features.

Q: Is CCTV legal for home and business use in the UK?

Yes, CCTV is legal, but its use is governed by various laws, including the Data Protection Act 2018 (which incorporates GDPR) and the Human Rights Act. For domestic use, it's generally less regulated, but you must respect neighbours' privacy. For businesses, strict rules apply regarding signage, data retention, and how footage is used and stored. It's crucial to understand your obligations. For detailed guidance, please refer to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) guidance on CCTV .

Q: What does CCTV stand for and why is it called "closed-circuit"?

CCTV stands for Closed-Circuit Television . It's called "closed-circuit" because the video signals are transmitted directly to a limited set of monitors or recording devices, unlike public broadcasts. This dedicated connection makes it ideal for private surveillance.

Q: Why does my alarm sound during a power cut?

Your alarm may sound during a power cut because the main panel's backup battery has failed. This backup battery is crucial for maintaining the system's operation during electrical outages, and its failure can trigger alarms to alert you to the power loss. Regularly checking and replacing the backup battery, as recommended by the manufacturer, helps ensure your alarm system remains effective and minimises disruptions to your security monitoring, including sounding alarms outside the premises in the event of a failure.

Q: Why is my intruder alarm going off?

Your intruder alarm may be going off due to various reasons, such as false alarms triggered by pets or environmental factors, sensor malfunctions or misalignments, low batteries in sensors or the main panel, power interruptions, or system malfunctions. Regular maintenance and prompt battery replacement as per manufacturer recommendations can help prevent these issues and ensure your alarm system operates reliably to protect your premises.

Q: How often do you change the battery in a burglar alarm?

The frequency of battery changes in a burglar alarm system typically follows manufacturers' recommendations. For most systems, the main panel battery is recommended to be replaced approximately every 5 years. However, with the increasing popularity of wireless systems, the batteries in wireless sensors generally require replacement about every 2 years to maintain reliable operation. Regularly changing these batteries is crucial to ensuring uninterrupted functionality and upholding the security of your premises.

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Fire Alarm Monitoring FAQs

How much does it cost to install a smoke alarm in the UK?

How long is CCTV footage typically stored?

How much does a CCTV system cost?

What are the main types of CCTV systems?

Is CCTV legal for home and business use in the UK?

What does CCTV stand for and why is it called “closed-circuit”?

Why does my alarm sound during a power cut?

Why is my intruder alarm going off?

How often do you change the battery in a burglar alarm?

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