CCTV Installation Cost – What You’ll Pay in the UK

If you’re thinking about adding CCTV to your property, the first question is always the price. The answer isn’t a single number – it depends on the type of cameras, the size of the area, and how much work the installer needs to do. Below you’ll get a clear picture of the main cost drivers, typical price ranges for a standard home or small business, and tips to keep the bill from blowing up.

What Averages Look Like

For a basic home setup – four dome or bullet cameras covering the front door, driveway and garden – expect to spend between £500 and £1,200 total. That includes the cameras, a small NVR (network video recorder), cabling and a one‑day labour fee. If you want higher‑resolution 4K cameras or a larger system with ten or more units, the price jumps to £1,500‑£3,000.

Small businesses usually need a bit more coverage, especially for shop fronts and back‑of‑house areas. A typical five‑camera package for a boutique shop runs about £800‑£1,500, while a larger retail space with eight‑camera coverage can hit £2,000‑£3,500. Labour rates in the UK average £70‑£100 per hour, and most installers will quote a flat day rate for up to eight cameras.

Don’t forget recurring costs. Cloud storage plans range from £5 to £15 a month, depending on how long you keep footage. Some installers bundle a basic 30‑day local storage solution at no extra charge, which can save a few pounds each month.

How To Keep Costs Down

Start by assessing exactly where you need coverage. A quick walk‑around helps you spot blind spots and avoid buying extra cameras you’ll never use. If you already have a Wi‑Fi network, you can opt for wireless cameras that run on batteries – they’re pricier per unit but save on cabling labour.

Shop around for quotes. Many local firms will give a free site survey and a written estimate. Compare the total price, not just the camera cost. Some providers mark up the NVR heavily, while others keep hardware cheap but charge higher labour fees.

Consider a hybrid system: a few wired cameras for high‑traffic zones and wireless units for peripheral areas. That mix often hits the sweet spot between reliability and installation expense.

Finally, check if you qualify for any discounts. Homeowners’ association bulk‑buy programmes, small‑business grants for security upgrades, or seasonal promos can shave 10‑20% off the final bill.

Bottom line: a solid CCTV system for a typical UK home costs around £800, while a small business should budget £1,500‑£3,000 for a comprehensive setup. By planning your coverage, comparing quotes and choosing the right mix of wired and wireless gear, you can stay within budget and still get the peace of mind you need.