CCTV Installation Cost Guide UK 2026
Thinking about getting CCTV installed? This guide breaks down exactly what you should expect to pay for home and business CCTV systems in 2026, plus what affects the price and how to avoid hidden costs.
Quick Price Summary 2026
£349
2 Camera Home
£549
4 Camera Home
£799
4 Camera Business
£0
Call-Out Fee
Home CCTV Installation Costs
Home CCTV systems have become much more affordable in recent years. Here's what you can expect to pay for a professionally installed system in 2026:
2 Camera System
Front & back door coverage
4 Camera System
Full home perimeter coverage
6 Camera System
Comprehensive home security
8 Camera System
Large property coverage
All Home Packages Include:
Business CCTV Installation Costs
Business CCTV systems typically need higher resolution cameras, more storage, and additional features like remote monitoring and integration with alarm systems:
4 Camera System
Small shop/office
8 Camera System
Medium business premises
16 Camera System
Large commercial property
Custom System
Tailored to your requirements
Business Systems Also Include:
What Affects CCTV Installation Cost?
- 2MP (1080p): Budget-friendly, good for general surveillance
- 4MP: Better detail, ideal for face/plate recognition
- 4K (8MP): Premium quality, best for large areas
- 1TB: ~30 days recording (4 cameras)
- 2TB: ~60 days recording (4 cameras)
- 4TB: ~120 days or more cameras
- Basic: Recording, playback, night vision
- Standard: + Mobile app, motion alerts
- Advanced: + AI detection, audio, cloud backup
- Simple: Single storey, easy cable routes
- Medium: Two storey, some difficult runs
- Complex: Long distances, multiple buildings
Watch Out for Hidden Costs
Common Hidden Fees to Ask About:
- Call-out fee: Some charge £50-£100 just to visit (we don't)
- Hard drive: Some quotes don't include storage
- Cabling: Extra charges for "difficult" cable runs
- App subscription: Some brands charge monthly for mobile viewing
- Cloud storage: Often a monthly subscription
- Maintenance: Annual service contracts can add £100+/year
Our Promise - No Hidden Costs
At Smart TV Aerials, the price we quote is the price you pay. Our packages include everything: cameras, recorder, hard drive, all cabling, professional installation, mobile app setup (no subscription), and warranty. No call-out fees, no surprises.
DIY vs Professional CCTV Installation
Cost: £150-£400 for equipment
- Lower upfront cost
- Often poor positioning/blind spots
- Difficult cable routing
- No warranty on installation
- Limited support if issues arise
Cost: From £349 complete
- Expert camera positioning
- Neat, weatherproof cable routing
- Optimal night vision setup
- Full warranty included
- Ongoing support available
Frequently Asked Questions
A typical 4-camera home installation takes 3-4 hours. Larger systems or complex installations may take a full day. We'll give you an accurate timeframe when we quote.
WiFi is only needed for remote viewing via the mobile app. The CCTV system itself uses its own cables and will record locally even without internet. We recommend wired systems over WiFi cameras for reliability.
Adding cameras to an existing system typically costs £80-£150 per camera, depending on camera type and cable routing. Your recorder needs spare channels available - we can check this and advise.
For domestic use, planning permission usually isn't required as long as cameras don't overlook neighbours' property. Listed buildings may need consent. We'll advise on positioning to ensure you comply with regulations.
Get Your Free CCTV Quote
Free site survey, no-obligation quote, and no call-out fee. We'll recommend the right system for your property and budget.