What is this?
Home CCTV systems in the UK typically consist of cameras (wired or wireless), a DVR/NVR recorder, and sometimes cloud storage. When the system stops working, you lose both live viewing and recording capability, leaving your property unmonitored.
Common causes
- DVR or NVR recorder has lost power or crashed
- Hard drive in the recorder has failed
- Camera power supply failure
- Network or Wi-Fi issue (for IP and wireless cameras)
- Cable damage between camera and recorder
- Camera lens or sensor fault
Is it dangerous?
A CCTV system that is not working presents no electrical safety risk. However, your property is left unmonitored. If the system stopped working after a lightning strike or power surge, other electrical equipment may also be affected.
Can I fix it myself?
Check the DVR or NVR has power and is turned on — look for lights on the front panel. Restart it by turning it off and on. Check the monitor or TV it connects to is on the correct input. For Wi-Fi cameras, check your router and the camera's Wi-Fi connection. For wired cameras, check the power supply to each camera.
When to call an electrician
Call an electrician if the recorder will not turn on, if cameras have no power and the supply is hardwired, if the hard drive has failed and needs replacing, or if the system stopped working after a power surge or lightning strike.
What will an electrician do?
Diagnose whether the issue is with the recorder, cameras, or cabling
Check power supplies to the recorder and cameras
Test network connectivity for IP camera systems
Replace the hard drive if it has failed
Repair or replace damaged cameras or cables
Reconfigure the system and test all cameras
Typical cost
£60 – £250
Simple power supply issues are inexpensive. Hard drive replacement or camera replacements add to the cost. Full system reinstallation after storm damage will be at the higher end.
