How to install a CCTV system: a practical guide for UK homes
Thinking about adding CCTV? You don’t need a tech wizard to get it done. In this guide I’ll walk you through planning, wiring, mounting, and keeping within UK rules – all in plain English.
Plan your layout before you start
First, list the areas you want to watch. Front door, driveway, and any blind spots inside are the usual suspects. Sketch a quick floor plan on paper or a phone app. Mark where each camera will face, making sure you cover entrances and any dark corners.
When you choose camera types, think about lighting. For spots with little natural light, pick an infrared or low‑light model. For the front door, a wider‑angle dome works well. Keep the number of cameras realistic – a few well‑placed lenses beat a dozen pointing at the same wall.
Do the wiring and mounting yourself
Most DIY kits come with coaxial or HDMI cables for analog, and Ethernet (Cat5e/6) for IP cameras. Run the cables from each camera back to a central recorder or NVR. If you’re drilling through walls, use a drill bit slightly larger than the cable to avoid squeezing it.
Secure the cable with clips every 2‑3 feet. This prevents sagging and makes future upgrades easier. For outdoor runs, use weather‑proof conduit – it protects against rain and rodents.
Power is the next step. Many IP cameras support PoE (Power over Ethernet), so you only need a single cable for both data and electricity. A PoE switch or injector does the job. If your cameras are analog, you’ll need a separate 12‑V power supply for each unit.
Mounting is straightforward once the holes are drilled. Use the supplied brackets, level them, and tighten the screws. Make sure the camera is angled slightly downwards – this reduces glare and gives a clearer view of faces and plates.
After everything’s wired, connect the NVR to your home router. Most systems have a web interface you can access from a laptop or phone. Follow the on-screen wizard to assign each camera a name and set motion‑detection zones.
Don’t forget the legal side. In the UK, you must inform visitors that they are being recorded – a simple sign at your front door does the trick. Keep recordings for no longer than necessary, typically 30 days, unless you have a specific reason to store longer.
Test the system during the day and night. Walk through each camera’s view on a phone, adjust the angle if needed, and fine‑tune motion sensitivity so you aren’t flooded with alerts.
That’s it – a functional CCTV system you installed yourself. You now have a solid deterrent, evidence if something goes wrong, and peace of mind knowing you’ve covered the key spots. If you ever feel stuck, a quick call to a local installer can clear up any hiccup, but most homeowners get it right the first time with this guide.
