Could Someone Give me Advice on Choosing a Reliable Security System for a Small Business?

[Delilniya]

Hello there,

 

I am new to the world of security systems and could really use some guidance from the experienced folks here. I run a small retail shop thats about 1,500 square feet in size, and I am looking to upgrade our current security setup, which is quite outdated. I want something that offers robust protection but is also user friendly and does not break the bank.

 

I would like cameras that provide clear footage during the day and at night. Are there specific brands or models you recommend for good quality video without excessive storage demands?
Is it worth integrating motion sensors and door/window sensors into the system? If so; are there any wireless options that perform well?

I would like to monitor the system via my phone or laptop when I am not on site. How reliable are these features across different systems?
Should I go for a professional installation; or are there reliable DIY options for someone with limited technical experience?

I have been reading about some all in one solutions like Hikvision and Dahua; but I am not sure if they are overkill for a small business like mine. Are there other systems you would recommend that balance performance and cost?

 

Also, I have gone through this post; https://www.thesecurityinstaller.co.uk/community/topic/46908-seeking-advice-on-upgrading-home-system/  which definitely helped me out a lot.

 

Lastly, what are the common pitfalls or mistakes I should avoid when choosing and setting up a security system?

 

Thanks in advance for your help and assistance.

Edited December 16 by sixwheeledbeast
remove hidden external link!

[al-yeti]

1 hour ago, Delilniya said:

Hello there,

 

I am new to the world of security systems and could really use some guidance from the experienced folks here. I run a small retail shop thats about 1,500 square feet in size, and I am looking to upgrade our current security setup, which is quite outdated. I want something that offers robust protection but is also user friendly and does not break the bank.

 

I would like cameras that provide clear footage during the day and at night. Are there specific brands or models you recommend for good quality video without excessive storage demands?
Is it worth integrating motion sensors and door/window sensors into the system? If so; are there any wireless options that perform well?

I would like to monitor the system via my phone or laptop when I am not on site. How reliable are these features across different systems?
Should I go for a professional installation; or are there reliable DIY options for someone with limited technical experience?

I have been reading about some all in one solutions like Hikvision and Dahua; but I am not sure if they are overkill for a small business like mine. Are there other systems you would recommend that balance performance and cost?

 

Also, I have gone through this post; https://www.thesecurityinstaller.co.uk/community/topic/46908-seeking-advice-on-upgrading-home-cybersecurity-system/  which definitely helped me out a lot.

 

Lastly, what are the common pitfalls or mistakes I should avoid when choosing and setting up a security system?

 

Thanks in advance for your help and assistance.

Usually the pitfalls are not having it installed by an installer who does it everyday, as DIY usually isn't as good , as you say you have limited experience, they can always hand it over to you working and you could possibly maintain it yourself.

 

What you choose will also depend on what your trying to protect , if your spending £300 then I assume nothing worth much and your not to fussed if it works or not, but £1000+ for an alarm and separately CCTV £2000+ , these are just starting points.

 

Your reading about dahua and hik being an overkill? Even the basic diyer is fitting some of there range , which has a cheaper end of the market and some stuff more expensive 

 

You have a floor plan? How many doors windows , etc difficult to say anything if you don't share that , standard square building ? 5-8 cameras or more?  I seen doyers spend £2k just on equipment and unlikely they will need to change anything for ten years 

 

Need info 

Edited December 16 by al-yeti

[sixwheeledbeast]

What does your insurer require is a good starting point.

[PeterJames]

First question would be whats the risk, theft attractive stock or property, area, etc etc.

Second question value of contents if you were burgled how much would it cost to start again.

Third question what does you insurer want? Read the small print

Fourth would be site history have you been burgled before.

Lastly what sort of physical security.

 

This would give enough info to advise what you need.

However, the difference between professional installers and diy is miles apart. Its a bit like going to a barber and cutting your own hair, If you dont want to look like Arthur Scargill then its best to go to the barbers. Professional installers will do a much better job, its unlikely to activate falsely, and more importantly it will work if you have a burglary.  CCTV wise There are a lot of very good DIY systems out there but it is a bloody minefield, a pro should know the latest systems and design the system to your requirements. If you have no idea what BLC or HLC stands for then its better to get a pro in. Dahua and Hik are the main two Chinese brands and cant be beaten by anything none Chinese.