How Many Security Cameras Do I Need for My Home?
Multiple factors determine the right number of cameras for you.
Multiple factors determine the right number of cameras for you.
The number of security cameras you need depends on a few factors, like the size of your home, the number of entry points, and whether you want to monitor your home’s interior, exterior, or both. Three exterior cameras could be sufficient for a small house, while larger homes might require six to ten security cameras for effective coverage indoors and out. In other words, the correct answer will vary by property.
Installing a camera-based security system can deter crime and footage often proves valuable if an incident does occur. Consider the following when deciding how many security cameras you need.
Large properties usually require more cameras to provide full coverage of interior and/or exterior spaces. When it comes to indoor cameras, it will depend on how many rooms you want to monitor. Big front or backyards could require more than one camera in each place, though a single device with a wide-angle view may suffice.
Doors or windows that could be used to gain unauthorized access to your home are known as entry points, and they ought to be within view of an outdoor camera. Below are four main areas every homeowner should monitor, which will help you determine how many exterior cameras you need:
Your front door should be the primary area to protect, as it’s the main entry point and the prime target for package thieves. A doorbell camera is a good starting point, but an additional camera pointing toward the door with visibility of the road gives an extra dimension of coverage.
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Any door that allows entry to your home from outside should be within view of an exterior camera. Criminals don’t like drawing attention to themselves, so sneaking in through a less-visible door will appeal to them (especially if they know you have a doorbell camera).
You’ll want to monitor ground floor windows large enough for someone to fit through, or those near doors that could allow access to locks. Ideally, each side of your home should have at least one camera to help avoid blind spots.
The typical garage or shed will house many valuable items, from cars to power tool sets, and are targets for would-be burglars. In the case of an attached garage, the garage door itself is a point of entry to your home. Fixing a camera to the exterior of your garage or shed will act as a deterrent, while also monitoring entry points and walkways leading to your prized possessions. An interior garage or shed camera is recommended for more coverage.
Regardless of how big your front yard and backyard are, installing a general exterior camera is a good way to increase overall security. Placing a camera with a wide-angle lens in a secure corner location can offer a fantastic vantage point for greater monitoring potential. Cameras placed in opposite corners and facing each other can eliminate blind spots.
Security camera systems can be used for exterior surveillance, indoor monitoring, or both. This is a matter of personal preference and needs. If you have pets or kids, you might want interior spaces covered, while keeping an eye on entry points could be enough for others.
Indoor cameras can be useful if you have children or pets that need to be monitored.
We’ve already touched on the benefits of exterior cameras when discussing entry points: they act as visible deterrents and can catch criminals in the act. Since robbers or burglars need to gain entry to your home, outdoor cameras are an important part of a comprehensive security solution.
Interior cameras can help in identifying the criminal and potentially recovering your stolen property. Here are the main indoor areas where you may want a camera:
The main hallway or corridor on every floor should have at least one camera to track the intruders’ movements from room to room.
Individuals have a reasonable right to privacy, but certain circumstances may require extra surveillance. You might want to consider a security camera in a bedroom with many valuables, or if the room is occupied by a vulnerable family member like a small child, an elderly individual, or someone with a disability.
Your main family room likely contains a television, video game console, artwork, and other objects that are targets for theft, so a camera here is essential if you want to protect them.
Any other rooms containing valuables should have at least one camera to give a clear view of the whole room. Even if your safe is in a closet, you should consider monitoring the location.
Serious about home security? Arlo provides a variety of options for your indoor and outdoor surveillance needs, from video doorbells to floodlight cameras. You can even shop Arlo Camera Bundles to get multiple devices at once for significant savings.
