A CCTV installation follows eight steps: survey the site and plan camera positions; choose cameras and a recorder; run and protect the cables; mount the cameras; connect them to the DVR or NVR; fit and format the hard drive; add power backup; and set up recording and phone viewing. Planning and cabling decide most of the quality of the result.
Key takeaways
- Plan positions before buying cameras.
- Use proper cable and conduit outdoors.
- Mount at a height that sees faces but is hard to reach.
- Size the hard drive for the days you need.
- Test day, night and phone viewing before handover.
01The installation steps
- 01Site surveyWalk the property: entries, blind spots, lighting, cable routes.
- 02Choose equipmentHD (DVR, coax) or IP (NVR, network cable); resolution and lens per position.
- 03Run cablesCat6 for IP or coax for HD, in conduit or trunking outdoors.
- 04Mount camerasUsually 2.5–3.5 m high, angled down; seal cable entries.
- 05Connect the recorderEach camera to the DVR/NVR or PoE switch.
- 06Hard driveFit a surveillance hard drive and format it.
- 07Power backupUPS or solar so recording continues in outages.
- 08Configure and testRecording schedule, motion zones, phone app, day and night check.
02Mistakes to avoid
- Pointing cameras into the sun or bright lights
- Cables clipped bare to walls
- No backup power
- Default passwords left on
- Cameras too high to recognise faces
- No drive space calculation
Use our CCTV installation checklist and positioning guide.
03DIY or professional?
A simple 4-camera kit is a realistic DIY job for someone comfortable with ladders and cabling. For businesses, estates and larger homes, a professional survey avoids blind spots and rework.
04Frequently asked questions
How long does CCTV installation take?
A 4-camera home system usually takes a day; larger sites take longer.
How high should CCTV cameras be mounted?
About 2.5–3.5 m: high enough to resist tampering, low enough to see faces.
Can I install CCTV myself?
A small kit, yes. Plan cable routes and test everything before finishing.
