What To Consider Before Installing CCTV Outside Your Home In Singapore

To quote Singapore’s famous safety campaign, “Low Crime Doesn’t Mean No Crime”. Despite our nation’s low crime rates, we cannot be lulled into a false sense of security. Therefore, it is crucial to install a CCTV surveillance system outside your home to safeguard your family and belongings.

However, there are various considerations you need to take note of before you hire a professional CCTV installation service to set up your devices. After all, you do not want to infringe on your neighbours’ privacy. And that is only one concern among several. Read on to learn what these considerations are to avoid further complications.

1. Ensure you have the permission to install your CCTV cameras

If you own a landed property, you generally have the freedom to install CCTV cameras outside your home, as long as they are within your compound. However, other homeowners in Singapore do not have this luxury. If you live in a condominium, any installation of a CCTV surveillance device needs to be approved by the condo management.

This matter may be more complicated if you live in an HDB estate. You will need the express permission of your town council before you can install the devices. However, the town council will require a valid reason before granting you permission – an example includes vandalism to your property.

So if you are a victim, we advise you to lodge a police report. With this report, you can seek permission from your town council to install CCTV cameras outside your home. But do note that the approval is only valid for six months. Afterwards, you will need to submit a new request. You can check out our comprehensive guide if you have further questions about the proper procedures.

2. Choose your CCTV surveillance system wisely

Once you have obtained permission for your CCTV installation, you are undoubtedly anxious to have everything set up. However, given the various systems available on the market, we will advise you to evaluate your needs thoroughly before making your purchase. For instance, you will want your cameras to be sturdy to withstand the elements if they are installed outside your home.

3. Be aware of the legal implications

Everyone values their privacy. Therefore, you should use your cameras exclusively to monitor your premise. This means your devices should not intrude upon your neighbour’s property and privacy. If your CCTV cameras are set up in a way that allows you to view and record your neighbour’s movements within and outside their home, you are breaching their privacy and they can file a complaint against you to have the devices removed.

Additionally, you should know that your cameras cannot record the common areas in your building, like the corridors or lift lobbies. Violating any of the stated rules could land you in legal trouble. Lastly, you should inform your neighbours that you have a CCTV surveillance system in operation outside your home as a common courtesy.

4. Check the coverage of your CCTV cameras

Determining the range of your CCTV cameras is crucial. After all, your CCTV installation is ineffective if it cannot provide extensive coverage over your desired area. In these instances, trespassers and vandals can utilise blind spots to remain hidden from view. If your purchased device cannot provide sufficient coverage, you should consider installing additional CCTV cameras as needed.

There is no denying the numerous benefits a CCTV surveillance system can bring to the table. It can deter intruders who wish to damage your property and allow you to rest easy knowing that your family members and belongings are safe. However, you cannot gloss over the various things you need to consider beforehand. So we hope you would contemplate what we have shared earnestly before installing your CCTV cameras.

Once you have everything sorted out, you should hire a licenced security service provider to set up your devices. This is because the Private Security Industry Act mandates that a person who installs a CCTV camera must have a Security Service Provider licence. If you are unsure of the proper procedures, fret not! Our team will be glad to assist you with any queries you may have. Do not hesitate to contact us today for your security needs.