When deciding between DIY and professional CCTV installation, their costs are obviously the most important matter of concern. You might presume the DIY costs to be economical over the costs of hiring a professional CCTV installer. But you should wait until you realise the long-term value of the high upfront costs of installing a security camera.
In this blog, you will gain clarity on the CCTV system installation cost in Melbourne when choosing DIY versus a professional company. So, keep reading the blog till the end to make an informed decision.
DIY Approach and Costs of CCTV Installation
Installing a CCTV security camera on your own is one of the easiest ways to secure your home or commercial space. You are buying a camera, setting up the system or its cables (if any), configuring the IP or cloud storage network, and testing the camera’s functionality.
Benefits:
- Eliminates Labour Costs: When you are installing a security camera on your own, you are paying only for the hardware. This eliminates the costs of paying a professional on an hourly basis.
- Control over Installation Time: DIY installations lets you install a security camera as per your convenience. There is no stress over scheduling the date and time as long as you have ample time to set up the entire system.
- Brings a Sense of Accomplishment: A CCTV system installation cost is less with DIY approach and brings a feeling of accomplishing the task without professional help.
Challenges:
- No Technical Expertise: You have to be an expert in electrical work and have a complete know-how of the camera setup. A person without technical security system knowledge can find it challenging to install any type of a camera.
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- Time-Consuming: The DIY approach of setting up a camera is time-taking when you are a beginner with no prior experience.
- Risk of Errors: Installing a CCTV system improperly as a beginner can lead to subpar performance or frequent damages.
Average Cost of DIY Installation
Here are a few CCTV system installation cost factors to keep in mind when considering a DIY method.
1. CCTV System Costs:
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Cameras:
The cost of buying a camera is an obvious expense. You must expect to pay for the CCTV system’s premium features, quality design, and standalone monitor. Depending on your needs, the costs of buying this hardware ranges from AUD 40 to AUD 500.
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Storage Capacity:
Another price segment in the DIY installation is the camera’s storage capacity which depends on the type of camera. Moreover, you must consider your storage requirements for the number of cameras and the need to retain the footage. A CCTV system installation cost for DVR/NVR can be anywhere from AUD 500 to AUD 2000.
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Cables and Connectors:
If you’re using wired cameras, you’ll need cables for transmitting data over all the cameras and to the desired locations. This can add another minor cost of AUD 100 to AUD 200.
2. Tools and Materials:
You’ll likely need to spend on drilling machines, screwdrivers, and other necessary tools for mounting a CCTV system. Another major cost is cable clips, extension cords, and mounting brackets can add a total expense of AUD 20 to AUD 100.
3. Hidden Costs:
The costs of DIY-ing a camera installation when you have never done it before is a costly mistake. Any damage or replacement of hardware can cost you another few dollars on buying additional cables or connectors.
Unfortunately, if the system fails to function property after the installation, you might have to incur another cost on hiring a professional CCTV installer.
Professional Approach and the Costs of Installation
A CCTV system installation cost is on a higher end when you are hiring a professional expert. But you must not forget about the complete and efficient installation process accompanying this approach. An expert looks at the camera’s access points, considers the distance to the digital recorder unit, and connects the camera with the network configurations.
Benefits:
- Efficient Services: Professional CCTV camera installation expert understands the processes and is familiar with various tools and equipment.
- Less Disrupting Service: A CCTV installation expert knows the process of carrying out the task without causing major inconvenience to your schedule.
- Offers Warranty and Support: Many professional installation services include warranties covering both the installation and the equipment used. Some may even provide ongoing support and training on using the system rightly.
Challenges:
Higher Cost: A professional CCTV system installation cost is higher for your home or business security. Along with other basic costs, you have to pay for labour costs on an hourly rate, depending on the complexity of the installation.
Scheduling: Depending on the schedule, professional installation may take longer to arrange. You might want to wait for the provider’s availability.
Lack of Personal Control: With professional installation, you might not have as much control over the exact placement and system’s configuration.
Average Costs of CCTV Installation
Here are the professional costs of installing a CCTV system, you are undertaking labour fees, additional costs, and post-installation support.
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Professional Labour Costs:
Professional CCTV installers charge on an hourly basis, with rates ranging from AUD 50 to AUD 150. If the installation requires accessing difficult areas or configuring advanced settings, the CCTV system installation cost increases accordingly.
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Additional Fees:
Over and above the basic costs of security camera installation as stated above, you will have to incur costs for professionals reaching your location. Additionally, there is also an expense for additional customisation as well.
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Post-Installation Support:
Many installation companies offer ongoing maintenance packages for regular check-ups and software upgrades. In addition to this, you will be paying more on expanded warranty coverage for both the camera installation and equipment.
Final Words
We hope you found this blog useful. As you see, a CCTV system installation cost is easy to determine when you are clear about your approach.
DIY installation reduces labour costs but can be a costly expense with improper installation technique. On the other hand, a professional CCTV installation is more costly initially but provides a long-term value for securing your environment. Choose wisely with premium yet affordable installation packages from a company like Wireless Camera Solutions in Melbourne.
