Wireless Or Wired CCTV For Rental Properties?

Most landlords choose between two types of CCTV: wireless battery cameras that connect over Wi-Fi, and wired systems where each camera is cabled back to a recorder. Both work well in the right building.

Wireless always-on (AOV) cameras

• ▸Quick to install with little disruption — no cables through ceilings or walls, so tenants can stay in.
• ▸Always-on video (AOV) models record continuously at low power rather than only when motion is detected.
• ▸Batteries need recharging. Keeping a set of spare charged cameras or batteries on site makes swaps quick.
• ▸Depend on a reliable Wi-Fi signal at every camera position, and usually on cloud or card storage.

Wired systems

• ▸Powered through the cable, so no batteries to manage.
• ▸Footage recorded to a secure recorder on site, with remote viewing if needed.
• ▸More reliable for large buildings or many cameras.
• ▸Installation takes longer and involves running cables, which is easiest during refurbishment or between tenancies.

Which is right for you?

For occupied HMOs where disruption needs to be kept to a minimum, wireless always-on cameras are often the fastest and most cost-effective option. For larger blocks, new conversions or properties being refurbished, a wired system is usually the better long-term choice. JHS can survey the property, check Wi-Fi coverage and recommend the right setup — with one all-inclusive price covering cameras, installation and setup.