What is this?
When a CCTV camera shows no picture, black screen, or a heavily distorted image, the camera itself, its cable, or its power supply may be at fault. This can affect one camera or all cameras on the system.
Common causes
- Camera power supply failure — camera has no power
- Damaged or corroded video cable (BNC or Ethernet)
- Camera lens fault or sensor failure
- Water ingress into the camera housing
- Incorrect camera settings or configuration after a reset
- IR LED failure causing no night vision
Is it dangerous?
Not a safety risk. However, if the camera has suffered water ingress and is still powered, there is a minor risk of a short circuit. If you can see water inside the camera housing, turn off the power to that camera.
Can I fix it myself?
Check if the camera has power — look for an LED or IR glow at night. Check the cable connections at both the camera and recorder end. Try swapping the cable with a known working camera to isolate whether the fault is the camera or the cable. For wireless cameras, check the Wi-Fi signal strength and battery level.
When to call an electrician
Call an electrician if the camera has no power and the supply is hardwired, if cables need replacing (especially if they run through walls or underground), if multiple cameras have failed simultaneously, or if a camera needs replacing at height.
What will an electrician do?
Test the power supply voltage at the camera
Check video cable continuity and signal quality
Inspect the camera for water damage or physical faults
Replace faulty cameras, cables, or power supplies
Reconfigure the recorder for any new cameras
Typical cost
£60 – £200
Single camera or power supply replacement is at the lower end. Running new cables through walls or to external locations adds to the cost.
