Choosing the right home security camera system
Video surveillance can be extremely useful for remotely monitoring your home against theft, vandalism, and break-ins—as long as you choose the right system. Here’s what you need to know about camera types, wired vs. wireless options, and key selection criteria.
What type of security camera should you choose for your home?
Whether indoors or outdoors, IP cameras are connected to a digital video recorder (DVR). This device uses video surveillance software to configure the cameras, record and store footage, and transmit data.
Wired or wireless security cameras?
Wired cameras are more reliable, as they are less prone to interference and connection drops than wireless cameras. However, they do require the installation of a network or coaxial cable.
Wireless cameras (battery-powered), on the other hand, offer greater flexibility but require periodic recharging.
Not sure which to choose? CAA-Quebec’s Residential Advisory Services can help you make sense of your options or find an Approved Residential Supplier.
What about smart doorbells?
A smart doorbell is installed at the exterior of your home and replaces the traditional doorbell. Like a security camera, it lets you see and hear in real time whoever rings your door. You can even speak to them through your smartphone using a mobile app.
These smart doorbells can also record footage and send you alerts when suspicious activity is detected. Recordings captured by these surveillance devices are generally stored in the cloud.
What are the key criteria for a good home security camera system?
Not all security cameras are equal. Make sure yours offer:
- Good recording and image quality. Ensure the camera you choose offers a video resolution of at least 1080p. The higher the resolution, the clearer the image.
- Wide coverage and a wide viewing angle. Motorized cameras cover a larger area than fixed cameras, which only point in one direction. They can zoom, rotate 360°, and be controlled remotely using a remote control.
- Built-in night vision. Infrared cameras work in complete darkness but record in black and white when infrared mode is active. Some models include automatic lighting to capture colour footage. Other camera types can record colour video even in low-light conditions.
Depending on your needs, also look for:
- Adequate video storage capacity
- Multiple recording modes (continuous or motion-triggered)
- A sufficient recording duration
- Live viewing capability
- Good audio quality (microphone and speaker)
- Motion detection
- Customizable settings, such as notifications, motion detection sensitivity, and alerts
- Data privacy protection—choose a strong password, keep it confidential, and keep your firmware up to date
Is residential camera surveillance legal in Quebec?
Installing security cameras is legal in Quebec; however, their use is governed by Quebec privacy laws—specifically, Articles 35 and 3 of the Civil Code, and Article 5 of the Quebec Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. In short, you must respect the privacy of individuals:
- If you want to record people inside your home, such as a babysitter or cleaning staff, you must have a legitimate reason and inform them of the presence of cameras.
- It is not necessary to warn people they are being recorded if the cameras or smart doorbells are located in public spaces.
- Cameras must not be used to spy on your neighbours' property, as this could constitute a violation of their privacy.
Will a home security camera system lower my home insurance premium?
Most insurance companies offer discounts for residential alarm systems—whether for fire or theft, and whether traditional or monitored by a central monitoring station. However, this is generally not the case for camera surveillance systems, even if they are connected to your home network.
In addition to acting as a burglary deterrent (especially during extended absences), security cameras can alert you in the event of a break-in. Video footage also serves as undeniable proof of an incident for insurance claims.
Of course, having a good surveillance system is just one part of keeping your home safe. Strong door locks and avoiding posting about your absence on social media are equally important security measures.
Our thanks to the people at Astral Securité for their contribution to this article.
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