How to Choose a CCTV Installer: 10 Questions to Ask

A CCTV system is only as good as the installation behind it. The cameras may be excellent, but poor placement, thin cabling or a badly configured recorder will leave you with blind spots and footage you cannot use when it matters. The right questions, asked up front, separate a careful installer from a cheap one — long before the cabling is in the wall and the bill is paid.

Before you book: 10 questions to ask

1. Do you offer a site survey before quoting?
2. Is the hardware genuine, and which brands do you use?
3. Is the quote itemised (cameras, recorder, storage, cabling, labour)?
4. What resolution are the cameras, and is it enough to identify faces?
5. How many days of footage will the storage hold?
6. Will you set up and demo mobile viewing?
7. Is the cabling concealed and done neatly?
8. What warranty do you provide on hardware and installation?
9. Do you offer an AMC for ongoing maintenance?
10. Can you share references or reviews?

The right answers

A good installer surveys the site first, uses genuine hardware, itemises the quote so nothing is hidden, and backs the work with a clear warranty on both parts and labour. They should walk you through live and recorded footage on your phone before leaving.

Warning signs to walk away from

• A price quoted over the phone with no site visit.
• A single lump-sum figure with no breakdown of cameras, recorder or cabling.
• No written warranty or any mention of after-sales support.
• Vague answers about night vision, storage days or camera resolution.
• Loose, exposed wiring or cameras simply screwed up wherever is easiest.

When to call a professional

For a single doorbell-style camera you may manage on your own, but a multi-camera setup needs proper planning of angles, power and cable routing to avoid gaps. That is exactly how we work, and we book a free survey first. See our CCTV installation service, our CCTV AMC for upkeep, or contact us to arrange a visit.