If you’re thinking about adding CCTV to protect your home or business, the first question is always – how much will it cost? The answer isn’t a single number because many things influence the price. Below we break down the main cost drivers, give you realistic price ranges, and share tips to keep the bill in check.
1. Camera type – Simple indoor bullet cameras are cheap, while high‑resolution dome cameras with night vision and analytics cost more. Expect a basic indoor unit for £30‑£80, and a premium outdoor model for £150‑£300 each.
2. Number of cameras – More cameras mean more hardware and more wiring. A typical three‑camera home system starts around £350‑£500, while a full‑coverage setup with eight or more cameras can climb over £1,500.
3. Indoor vs outdoor – Outdoor cameras need weather‑proof housing and sometimes stronger power supplies. That adds £30‑£70 per camera compared with indoor models.
4. Wiring and power – Running cable through walls, trenches or ceiling spaces is labor‑intensive. If the site needs new conduit or a dedicated power line, installation fees can add £100‑£300 per camera.
5. Storage choices – Local DVR/NVR storage is a one‑off cost (£100‑£250). Cloud storage packages are subscription‑based, usually £5‑£15 per month, and may be required for remote access.
6. Monitoring service – Some companies bundle 24/7 monitoring for an extra £15‑£30 per month. If you opt for self‑monitoring via your phone, you can skip this cost.
For a typical UK homeowner, a DIY kit with four indoor/outdoor cameras, a basic NVR, and simple cabling runs about £600‑£900. Hiring a professional installer adds labour, usually £80‑£120 per hour, plus a service charge of £150‑£300 for the whole job.
A small business looking for higher‑grade cameras, robust storage, and optional monitoring can expect a total spend of £2,000‑£5,000, depending on site size and security requirements.
Remember, these numbers are averages. Your exact cost will depend on the layout of your property, the level of detail you want from each camera, and whether you already have some equipment (like an existing router or power source).
Doing it yourself saves labour costs, but you need confidence with wiring and network setup. A DIY kit can be wired in a day if you’re comfortable with a drill and basic networking. If you’re unsure about electrical safety or want a warranty, a professional install is worth the extra cash.
Pro installers often provide a single‑line guarantee, handle permits if you need them, and make sure the system complies with privacy laws – a big plus if you’re covering public areas.
• Plan your layout first. Sketch where you need coverage and count cameras before buying.
• Mix camera types. Use cheaper indoor units for rooms and reserve premium models for entry points.
• Use PoE (Power over Ethernet) where possible. One cable powers and connects the camera, cutting down on extra wiring.
• Consider future expansion. Choose a NVR with extra channels so you can add cameras later without buying a new recorder.
• Shop sales. Many retailers discount kits in January and around Black Friday.
There’s no one‑size‑fits‑all price for CCTV installation. A basic home system can be under £500 if you go DIY, while a fully managed business solution can run into the thousands. Focus on what you need, budget for wiring and storage, and decide early whether you want a professional install or are comfortable doing it yourself. With a clear plan, you’ll get the protection you need without surprise costs.
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