There’s no doubt that installing CCTV offers a great way to improve the security of your home. However, before you install a system, there are a number of important points you need to consider first, as protecting your home with a CCTV system comes with a set of responsibilities such as the privacy of your neighbours, for example. Here are a few ways to ensure you make the most of CCTV technology whilst also meeting privacy regulations:

• Before installing CCTV system, spend a little time considering whether it is the best solution for you and your property. At FirstEye we work with homeowners throughout Leeds and will use our expertise to help you find the most appropriate privacy system. For some properties, for example, motion sensor security lighting may be sufficient.

• If your CCTV cameras do happen to capture part of a neighbouring property, or a property across the road, you must ensure you comply with data protection regulations.

• You should always make sure that the date and time on your system are correct and that images aren’t stored for longer than necessary. This means that footage must be deleted once it is no longer required. In addition, the information recorded should only be used for the purposes for which the system was installed.

• External cameras should be carefully positioned to ensure that they don’t invade your neighbour’s privacy or the privacy of passers by.

• In order to comply with data protection regulations you’ll need to display signage to let other people know that CCTV cameras are in operation, only provide access to the footage to those who need it (e.g. the police) and select a system which enables you to choose what to record.

This list covers the main points to consider but for further information on how to ensure you’re using your system correctly, please get in touch with us or see the latest government guidance.

CCTV systems installed in Leeds by FirstEye

Here at FirstEye we have many years of experience of installing CCTV and security systems for residential and business customers throughout Leeds and West Yorkshire. If you would like to find out more about CCTV and security, please get in touch.