Getting the right CCTV installer insurance

There are millions of CCTV security systems installed in the UK and the number is growing. They’re used by businesses, private households, local and national government.

With so much demand for their work, CCTV installers can earn a steady income. If you want to upskill or get started in the business, there are plenty of CCTV installer training courses available.

Why think about getting business insurance?

As you know, there are big responsibilities on CCTV installers to install equipment to high standards and to know the regulations on installing systems.

With CCTV, you can access live images remotely on your mobile phone or smart device. That gives businesses and homeowners greater peace of mind about protecting their property.

But it rightly means that customers expect CCTV installers to act professionally and that includes having the right insurance.

Insurance is a requirement in most commercial contracts. It is also important for private properties due to the regulations in place.

CCTV installer insurance covers various work-related areas, so you need to decide exactly what is best for your trade business.

Why CCTV cameras are popular

As technology improves and cost comes down, more people want CCTV installed. It is thought that the number of CCTV cameras in the UK could be as high as 5.2 million.

Doorbell cameras are also a growing trend for security-conscious homeowners. That’s why starting a home security business can be a profitable venture for tradespeople with the right skills.

But CCTV cameras capture people’s images so there are laws to protect individuals when this happens. The government’s Information Commissioner’s Office enforces the rules on data protection.

As a CCTV installer, you need to know how to correctly install and position cameras. For example, pointing CCTV cameras away from neighbours’ homes.

With such important rules around GDPR and data to follow, it is good to investigate insurance cover as a backup, in case of the worst.

Benefits of installing CCTV

At home:

• Improves security
• Prevents break-ins
• Reduces risk of theft from gardens and garages
• Reduces risk of vandalism and anti-social behaviour

At work:

• Improves safety for staff and customers
• Reduces the risk of theft
• Reduces the risk of bogus claims against companies
• Records activity around the clock

What do you need your insurance to cover?

CCTV installation requires different skills and risks that need to be insured for.

Typical CCTV installation work

You should install CCTV systems to the highest standards. The code of best practice for installing CCTV systems is British Standard 8418. These are recommendations for the design, installation, maintenance and the operation of CCTV systems.

Before you install a CCTV system, you’ll probably need to provide ideas, advice and designs based on what customers want.

CCTV installer insurance can protect your business if a customer complains about the quality of your work or reports any damages.

A CCTV installation can provide:

• Cameras
• Microphones
• Gate entry
• Monitoring equipment
• Recording equipment
• Cabling and signage

Your CCTV installer insurance should protect you if anything goes wrong during the installation work.

Once a CCTV system is installed you might also provide:

• Testing and commissioning of the CCTV system before it goes live
• Monitoring and reporting services on activities captured on CCTV

• Regular service and maintenance of all parts of the CCTV system

Once a CCTV system is up and running, insurance can cover you for problems that happen while it is in use.

Typical risks of installing CCTV

You face a range of risks when installing CCTV systems. These include:

• Damaging property
• Injuries during installation to you, your employees, customers and the public
• Theft of your tools, vehicles or other equipment during installation
• Wrongly installed CCTV equipment if there is subsequently a break-in or other incident

What are the types of CCTV installer insurance?

Make sure you have the right type and level of insurance depending on your business needs.

Here are the main types of small business insurance suitable for CCTV installers.

Public Liability insurance

This is designed for trade business that work in public places. It protects you against a range of risks. These include legal and financial action from former customers.

We help our members with savings on public liability insurance (terms and conditions apply). Log in to our Member’s Area to see all the latest deals.

We’ve plenty more ways for our members to save money and bring in more business.

Professional indemnity insurance

This can protect you if a customer claims that your work is inadequate. It could be important if they suffer a break-in or vandalism and blame your CCTV system for not preventing it.

This could happen if the cameras were installed in the wrong positions. The insurance covers your legal fees and compensation, if you have to pay the customer.

Product liability insurance

This covers you for losses or damage resulting from the CCTV equipment you install.

Employer liability insurance

This covers your trade business if a staff member is injured or ill.

Equipment insurance

Your CCTV installer insurance should protect your:

• Tools
• Tools while they are in transit in your van
• Plant, machinery and equipment
• Hired-in plant

If you’re unsure about the right cover for your trade business, it is worth having a conversation with an insurer or broker. You want to make sure your business is protected as much as possible in the unlikely event that something goes wrong.

Why not factor your insurance into any business development plans you have in place? It is always important to plan ahead.

Not sure where to start? Why not download our free template to get you going?

How are insurance costs calculated for CCTV installers?

How much you pay for CCTV installer insurance will depend on several factors. An insurer will want to know:

• Where you work – for example, if you install equipment height or in dangerous locations
• Where in the UK you work – insurance rates vary around the country
• If you have employees
• What tools do you need for your CCTV installation work
• What vehicles do you use for your work

FAQs

Why do I need insurance as a CCTV installer?

CCTV installer insurance protects your trade business, customers and the public if things go wrong.

What are the benefits of insurance?

If claims are made against your work or the equipment you install then any financial costs you incur could be met by the insurance provider.

How much does CCTV installer insurance cost?

The cost of your CCTV installer insurance varies according to the types of cover you choose and the size of your business. It’s always best for you to compare different quotes or speak to an insurance specialist.

Content disclaimer: This content has been created for general information purposes and should not be taken as formal advice. Read our full disclaimer here.