As a homeowner in Canada, you want your family and property to be safe. You might have seen more and more people putting up security cameras (CCTV) and wondered, “Do I need one for my house?” Let’s break it down simply.

Think of a home security camera system as an extra set of eyes that keeps watch over your property, day and night, even when you’re not there.

What is Home CCTV?

It’s a system where cameras capture video of areas around or inside your home. This video is then sent to a screen you can watch, or saved for later viewing on a recording device or in the cloud. You can often check it from your phone, no matter where you are!

Why Do Homes Use Security Cameras?

People usually install home security cameras for two main reasons:

  1. Deterrence: To make potential intruders think twice before trying something.
  2. Evidence: To record what happened if a break-in, package theft, or other incident occurs.

Ask Yourself These 3 Questions:

To help you decide, let’s go through a few simple questions tailored for Canadian homeowners.

1. Do you have valuable items or sentimental belongings?

This isn’t just about expensive electronics! Think about family heirlooms, important documents, or personal items that would be devastating to lose. Also, consider the value of your general household goods.

Example:

  • A home with easily accessible electronics or jewelry.
  • Your front porch where packages are often left.
  • If a break-in would mean losing items that are irreplaceable.

If your answer is YES, a camera system can act as a strong deterrent against burglary and theft. If an incident does occur, the footage can be vital evidence for police and insurance claims (for instance, showing a package being stolen).

2. Do you have areas around your home that are hard to see?

Are there blind spots around your property? This could be a side gate, a basement window, a shed in the backyard, or even your driveway. Are these areas visible from your windows or from a neighbour’s view?

Example:

  • A detached garage or shed that isn’t easily visible from the house.