We are all guilty of it. Installing commercial CCTV security cameras in retail stores without too much attention on the location or its technicalities is a mistake that makes us and our business responsible. 

However, the best way of avoiding common but overlooked wireless camera installation mistakes is to know the right way of installing commercial video surveillance systems. Right installation makes the premise secure and lets you take action before unexpected situations. 

For this reason, this blog helps you recall 6 CCTV installation mistakes you might be making in your business. Also, we will learn how to avoid them to allow these cameras to serve their purpose effectively. 

1. Placing Cameras in Wrong or Obstructed Locations:

If you are mounting commercial CCTV security cameras inside private offices without consent, in an employee’s lounge room, or in areas with poor Wi-Fi connectivity, then you are making your business image known for micro-management. This will add in more security but puts down your business image. 

Similarly, placing cameras close to the wall, pillar, or or large objects can block the view and makes it difficult to get the complete footage of the area.

How to Avoid?

• Always reach out to providers who evaluate the areas closely. It is best to have cameras above or near entrances, exits, parking lots, and cash registers.
• Consider whether the cameras are facing toward bright light sources to prevent glare. 
• Use wide-angle lenses for better coverage without need for multiple surveillances.

2. Not Checking Camera Quality and Features:

The moment we decide on installing a wireless camera system, we leave everything up to the professional or technician. But that is where you fool yourself into trusting the professional. CCTVs are not always the same. You would not know if you are using low-quality cameras or the ones that have limited features.

How to Avoid?

• Always choose high-quality monitoring systems with markings like HD or ultra-high-definition for crystal clear footage. 
• Make sure you are investing in infrared or night vision systems that function in low light conditions.
• Look for weatherproof outdoor cameras in case the rain or extreme temperatures happens to cause little discomfort.
• It is advisable to have surveillance systems with motion detection and pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) capabilities for flexible security.

3. Not Knowing Anything About Storage and Data Management:

Another common problem that can affect security of the business is failing to plan for sufficient storage when installing a wireless camera system. This can overwrite old recordings and miss out on new footage. 

More than that, not replacing full storage cameras can even damage the camera or shut it down completely. It is best to have cameras with high storage capacity or expandable storage. 

How to Avoid?

• Plan storage needs based on the number of cameras, resolution, and how long you need to keep footage.
• Use compression formats like H.264 to reduce file sizes and keep the video quality premium.
• Set up automatic backups to prevent data loss.

4. Overlooking Regular Maintenance:

If you are not asking for technical support and fail to maintain the surveillance on time, it is possible that your cameras must be having outdated software or technical irregularities. This can lead to malfunctioning or miss valuable incidents. It is best to have a wireless camera system from providers who provide ongoing support without extra fees. 

How to Avoid?

• Schedule regular inspections to check misalignment, dirty lenses, or weather damage.
• Keep software up to date to catch everything precisely. 
• Monitor camera feeds in real-time to respond on time. 

5. Failing to Comply with Privacy and Legal Requirements:

Many regions have strict privacy laws about the use of CCTV cameras. Failing to comply can lead to fines, legal issues, or damage to your business’s reputation.

How to Avoid?

• Understand local privacy laws in terms of where to install high-definition cameras, maximum storage, and access.
• Do not install cameras, bathrooms or break rooms as it can violate privacy and result in legal action. 
• Notify employees and visitors in advance about the areas that are under surveillance. This will establish trust and improve productivity. 
• Ensure only authorised personnel can view and manage the footage.

Final Words

We hope you found this blog useful. Coming to an end, installing commercial CCTV security cameras should be a careful step and need a thoughtful approach to avoid common pitfalls. 

From placing cameras in the right locations, investing in the right technology, to planning for data storage, performing regular maintenance, and complying with legal requirements, you can maximise your investment in security cameras for your retail establishments. 

Avoiding these mistakes will help extend the security, is quite an affordable investment and protects your business from intruders at all times. Consult experienced and high-quality providers today.