Smarten up your home security

Smart security cameras

Once upon a time, not so long ago, if you wanted CCTV cameras installed at home, you’d be ringing professional surveillance companies and having to steady your legs when the quote came back. Surveillance technology is now far more accessible to the consumer with easy step-by-step installations that even the staunchest technophobe can master.

You can buy cameras as wireless units or wired, which will suit different living conditions. If you rent or are planning to move, then the portability of wireless cameras is recommended; you can take them wherever you go. Wired cameras offer a more permanent solution. The benefit is that a wired camera requires a power supply, so you don’t have to worry about recharging batteries.

CCTV cameras can be installed externally and internally. Many security cameras offer two-way audio, face recognition, motion sensing, voice assistant capability, sirens, and night vision features, with some external models combining a camera with a spotlight.

Our experience is to opt for the highest you can afford when it comes to resolution. A lower resolution camera is better than no camera, but if you want to capture details like number plates, you’ll want 2K resolution and above.

Wireless cameras are easy to set up. Generally, once a companion app is downloaded, it’s as simple as scanning a QR code, entering a Wi-Fi password, and the camera is up and running. External cameras require some basic DIY skills to drill a hole and screw a bracket to a wall, but that's it.

A wired system will involve tracing cable back through a ceiling space and potentially down the inside of a stud wall to a router. There’s a little more involved, but, as we’ve already mentioned, if the residence is permanent, it could be worth considering a more reliable connection and a constant power source – think set and forget.

Finally, let’s talk about subscriptions. Many cameras require a monthly sub to access rolling cloud storage and additional features, while others have either onboard storage via an SD card or directly in a hub that records footage for free. If you’re reluctant to add yet another subscription to your monthly budget, look for a camera with onboard storage.

Top tip: A camera connected to a home Wi-Fi network is only as good as the signal it receives. Consider installing a mesh network if your home has dead spots or a weak signal from a router.

Video doorbells

An alternative to installing a multiple camera system, a video doorbell is essentially a video intercom system that lets you see who’s at the door – whether you’re home or away – and interact with them via two-way chat. You can also manage deliveries and protect against parcel theft. Activity alerts and live feed video can be accessed from a smartphone or other connected displays like a hub or a smart TV.

They can be easily installed in around five minutes and are ideal for apartments and rental properties. Look for one with a wide-angle view and a motion sensor, live-stream video support, and of course sufficient weatherproofing.

Top tip: When combined with a smart lock, you can grant entry to authorised persons from wherever you are.

Motion sensors

Easy to install and an ideal home security starting point, motion sensors will instantly alert you to movement around the home and any unauthorised access, and notifications can be customised to reduce false alarms by pets and children.

Smart home integration enables lights and cameras to automatically activate when motion is triggered, adding a further layer of security.

Top tip: Motion sensors should be ideally positioned at main entry points and corners with a wide angle of view.

Door and window sensors

Contact sensors strengthen home security, alerting you when a door or window has been opened or left ajar. Installation on door and window frames is simple; sensors should be positioned on main entrances and external access points, and are ideally paired with smart locks.

Smart home integration lets you set routines like activating cameras and turning on lights when sensors are triggered, and some models include a siren or alarm to deter intruders.

Top tip: Contact sensors can also be fitted to desk drawers, cupboards and cabinets, and anything else that opens and closes, to protect privacy.

Smart locks

Smart locks are essentially digital keys – all you need is a passcode or smartphone app to gain access. Entry codes can also be set to admit pre-approved visitors, cleaners, dog walkers, or guests at Airbnb properties.

They can also be geofenced to automatically open if you’re lugging shopping bags inside, and some are compatible with voice assistants. Not sure if you’ve locked the door? Simply check the status in the app, and if you didn’t, lock it with one touch.

Smart locks come in a variety of types, from keypads and cylinders to traditional entrance and screen door locks, and many can be retrofitted with an existing standard lock.

Top tip: It’s prudent to check the connectivity specs, as some brands may require a bridge or control hub for connection to your home Wi-Fi network.

Smart baby monitors

An essential tech purchase for the nursery, a baby monitor is a carer’s best friend. Depending on the brand, monitors can come complete with a unique screen or an app that you download to a smartphone.

Connected to the home network, baby monitors are portable devices that can be positioned wherever the baby is sleeping. This means whoever is home with the baby can keep an eye – and ear – on what’s happening in the nursery.

Monitors can offer two-way talk and zoom functionality and display room temperature and humidity readings. Smart baby monitors provide complete peace of mind throughout daytime naps and during the night.

Top tip: Try to position the baby monitor up high to achieve the best camera angle and to capture as much of the baby as possible when they move around the cot.