CCTV system cost: What you really pay for home and business surveillance

When you think about a CCTV system, a network of cameras used to monitor and record activity for security purposes. Also known as closed-circuit television, it’s one of the most common ways UK homes and businesses protect themselves. But the price tag isn’t just about the cameras. It’s about cables, power, storage, installation, and whether you need someone to set it up—or if you’re doing it yourself. A basic system might start at £200, but the real cost often hides in the details.

Not all CCTV systems are the same. A wired CCTV, a system where cameras connect directly to a recorder via cables usually costs more upfront because of installation labor, but it’s more reliable and doesn’t rely on Wi-Fi. On the other hand, a wireless CCTV, a system that transmits video over Wi-Fi or cellular signals without physical cables might seem cheaper and easier to install, but you’re often paying for cloud storage subscriptions, and battery life can be a headache. Some people think they’re saving money by going wireless, but if your camera loses signal during a break-in, the savings don’t matter.

Then there’s the recorder. A basic 4-channel DVR costs around £80–£150, but if you want 4K resolution, remote viewing, or motion-triggered alerts, you’re looking at £250 or more. Storage is another hidden cost—buying a 2TB hard drive adds £50–£70, and if you want to keep footage for more than a week, you’ll need more. And don’t forget power supplies, mounting brackets, and weatherproofing for outdoor cameras. A professional install might run £200–£500, depending on how many cameras and how complex the wiring is. DIY saves money, but if you mess up the placement, you could end up with blind spots—or worse, legal trouble from recording private areas.

What you really pay for isn’t just the hardware. It’s peace of mind. A well-placed camera deters thieves—studies show homes without visible cameras are 3 times more likely to be targeted. But if your system doesn’t record clearly, or you can’t access footage when you need it, it’s just a fancy decoration. That’s why the posts below cover real-world setups: how much data a camera uses, whether you need Wi-Fi, how long batteries last, where you can’t legally point cameras, and what alternatives like thermal imaging or offline storage actually deliver. You’ll find honest breakdowns of costs, pitfalls to avoid, and what works in UK homes right now—not marketing fluff.