Can you use CCTV outside your house?

With burglary and other crimes on the rise, it is important that homeowners think smart when it comes to taking protective security measures on their property.

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CCTV

Houses that do not have additional security measures are 5 times more likely to be burgled. CCTV is one of the most popular security measures used to protect homes, with often the sight of a system acting as a deterrent. There are said to be over 5.2 million CCTV cameras in the UK, with 96% of the UK’s surveillance cameras being owned by either homeowners or private businesses.

Whilst you are allowed to use CCTV to protect the outside of your home, there are certain data protection regulations in place. The legalities surrounding the use of CCTV in the UK are based on the principle that individuals have a “reasonable expectation of privacy”. This means that you cannot direct your system into the street, a public place or a neighbour’s garden.

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Your system should be exclusively used for monitoring your own property, unless you have express consent to do otherwise. All data collected from CCTV should be kept for a maximum of 30 days and then deleted or overwritten. This is except for footage being used for an investigation.

Other Uses for CCTV

CCTV is not only used as a security measure. Many specialist fields of expertise also utilise its technology for other purposes.

Small, state-of-the-art cameras can even be used to carry out drainage and sewerage surveys, helping to identify issues such as obstructions, cracks, damages and build-up. This innovative means of exploration allows engineers to pinpoint exact issues, in precise underground locations, without the need for digging, disruption and unnecessary cost. If you require a CCTV drain survey Northampton or the surrounding areas, consult a drain specialist such as https://www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/cctv-drain-surveys-northampton/ for expert help and advice.

Great advances have been made in technology giving property owners added measures to protect their homes, both from criminal and illegal activity and from environmental factors that can cause damage to property and health.