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Most people believe security hardware to be a one-and-done type of deal, where you install the system and forget about it. However, in practice, it is actually a good idea to keep your system updated and review it every 5 to 7 years.
Whether it is due to obsolescence, changes in the threat landscape, new regulations, or just maintenance, property owners must have their systems reviewed so that they can get continued security, with perhaps even improvements.
Read below to learn more about why security systems should be reviewed periodically and how you can go about it:
WHY REVIEW IN THE FIRST PLACE?
Revisiting old security systems is important because it allows users to keep up with changes and enables them to ensure that their system is providing them with continued security.
Here are some reasons why you should review them periodically:
Technology Lifecycle
Technology is moving ahead faster than we can keep up with it. Think about it, you get a new phone every year that seems like a leap from previous years in terms of new technologies. So, you can expect the same changes in the security hardware landscape as well.
With AI on the rise, you can be sure to see a new suite of security hardware that promises to do more with the same sensors on board. These innovations are thanks to cloud computing, AI technology, and the great strides that are currently being taken to improve the Internet of Things (IoT).
Additionally, sometimes security hardware can also just start to degrade to a point where it needs to be reviewed and even replaced.
Cameras and sensors may degrade over time, especially those that are exposed to harsh environments. This can not only lead to the device malfunctioning but can also leave your property vulnerable to threats.
Sometimes manufacturers may even stop supporting older models. This can happen when the manufacturer clears up parts for old hardware and stops sending out firmware updates.
Firmware is important for the smooth running of cameras, and each update brings new features and fixes errors in the system. Without continuous updates, your system can be left on its own and begin to show faults.
5 to 7 years is a good time for sensor-based hardware because there is a range of things that can happen to them due to depreciation.
Evolving Threats
The security landscape of today is different from what it was 5 to 7 years ago. Criminals are becoming smarter, adjusting their strategies, and learning how to circumvent hardware.
This means that with older systems, you can become vulnerable over time. Criminal networks strengthen by exploiting new weaknesses in systems, and when word gets out, several of them adapt to this new strategy and attack properties.
Furthermore, with more people opting for IP cameras or network devices, it has become apparent that property owners need to protect themselves from cyberthreats as well.
Hackers can get into vulnerable and old systems, especially those running on outdated or flawed protocols. If companies stop working on old hardware products and halt firmware updates, this can allow cyber attackers to eventually figure out flaws that will never be patched.
By reviewing these types of hardware, you can ensure that your system remains protected with the help of the latest standards and technologies. This way, you can remain protected in the physical and cyber realm.
Compliance Changes
Security systems, especially CCTV systems, intersect with data protection laws, specifically the UK GDPR & Data Protection Act 2018. Under the ICO’s recommendations, users must conduct regular reviews and audits to ensure CCTV remains lawful and compliant. This is even more important for business owners who extensively rely on old CCTV hardware.
While regulations aren’t as likely to change often, given enough time (like 5 to 7 years), you may likely see a minor or even major shift in policies that would require you to revisit your old system.
Compliance is necessary because it allows you to keep your property secured as per the latest laws. It can also allow you to fulfil the requirements set by your insurer.
New Capabilities
Technology is becoming increasingly integrable. If you want your system to provide you with comprehensive security, then you might need to invest in a system that allows for fluid integration.
By integrating multiple security hardware, you can ensure that you get the most robust security for your property.
Newer systems use Artificial Intelligence, analytics, and a broad range of new technologies to help your property remain secure from all kinds of threats. New features are being added every few years, so if you want to keep up with the changes, then at least invest in a system that allows for software/firmware updates that can help your security hardware do more.
Maintenance
Maintenance is one of the primary reasons you should revisit your old security hardware. Apart from the reasons listed above, you must ensure that your current system is running at 100% and that all sensors, batteries, and wiring are up to the mark.
However, you shouldn’t wait 5 to 7 years to get your system maintained! As a best practice, you should opt for annual maintenance contracts that enable you to maintain your system periodically.
Maintenance activities are important because they allow your system to remain operational without any downtime. They are also useful in spotting irregularities, errors, and failures in hardware products.
Maintenance is very easy when you have a maintenance contract because instead of you having to manually check everything, a technician will be sent out to your property to run all the security checks for you.
They can detect, log, and repair broken hardware on the spot so that your system remains operational. Furthermore, if you want to upgrade your system, you can have a professional installation company, like Calder Security, revamp your system without you having to research all the hardware.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL REVIEW LOOK LIKE?
A typical review of your security system can depend on the type and scale of your system. Most systems are reviewed and maintained using a checklist. This checklist covers various aspects of the system to ensure that everything works as expected.
An average maintenance contract includes remote and on-site service calls, emergency calls, and on-call support for the following list of services:
- Cleaning the housing and checking whether the lens is focused and adjusted properly,
- Checking the field of view for CCTVs and removing any obstructions,
- Checking the sensors and detectors, if any,
- Checking the batteries and replacing them every few years,
- Using the controllers to check the various functions of the hardware,
- Checking the wiring and connectors for any wear and tear,
- Checking if the data transmission is optimal,
- Checking the equipment settings on the central control dashboard,
- Checking the security of the wireless connection and making sure it is safe from hackers,
- Agreeing to repair any minor faults where necessary,
- Training and retraining the users on the use of the system,
- Providing a report on the condition and logging all the results,
- Advising on the latest technology and security recommendations,
- Advising on the latest data protection and security legislation.
As you can see, a typical maintenance contract can cover all the bases that we have discussed above, and the best part is that you can do this annually instead of relying on it every 5 to 7 years, which is a lot of time!
HOW OFTEN SHOULD A SECURITY SYSTEM BE REVIEWED?
Not every half a decade, that’s for sure!
Security hardware should be reviewed every 12 months, especially if you are a commercial property owner. For residential properties, you can get away with reviewing your security hardware every 3 years, but you must ALWAYS strive to have it maintained every 12 months.
As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to have the systems looked over whenever you notice a problem in any one of the components in your security system. This can be a false alarm, a failing CCTV camera that produces distorted footage, an alarm system with broken housing, and more.
The good news is that most professional security installers like Calder Security also offer maintenance services. The benefit of going with your installer for maintenance is that they know your system inside and out since they installed it. This way, you can be sure that they will know how to keep your system running without fault.
HOW MUCH DOES MAINTENANCE COST?
Maintenance contracts can be seen as an added cost, but the benefits they provide to your security and property in general are immeasurable.
Annual servicing is recommended to keep your security system operational 24/7.
On average:
- A CCTV maintenance visit would cost you around £75-£125.
- Alarm system maintenance would cost £80 – £200 per year
- Combined alarm + CCTV maintenance would cost about £200 – £400 per year, depending on the scale of the system
- A full security contract (access control + alarms + CCTV) could cost from £300 to more, depending on the complexity of the system.
The total cost will depend on the type of system, how old it is, how complex it is, and its size. Some contracts are also made according to the individual customer’s requirements and are, therefore, tailor-made according to their budgets.
IMPORTANCE OF A WELL-MAINTAINED SECURITY SYSTEM
Here is why you should periodically review security systems:
Deterrence
Deterrence is one of the easiest ways that security systems keep bad people away. Their presence is enough to make criminals double-guess their decision to attack.
Having a well-maintained system can keep a high level of deterrence. Imagine if a criminal walks up to your property and notices a camera loosely dangling from its fixture or pointed the wrong way.
These small details make a huge impact on the security of your property, so it’s better to have your system periodically reviewed by a professional.
Compliance and Recording Evidence
Burglar alarms, fire alarms and even CCTV may be legally required by either the law or your insurer. By having a properly reviewed and maintained system, you can make sure that the security being provided to you is compliant and according to the latest standards.
These systems can not only help you gather evidence (like in the case of CCTVs), but they can also help you prevent disasters that can lead to loss, such as during fires, intrusions, and vandalism.
CCTVs need to be reviewed more closely because they have the job of recording evidence. Most insurers want property owners to have cameras that are well-placed and provide crisp, quality evidence that can be used to track down perpetrators.
Safety and Security
An old system with a lot of flaws may not be the best for your property or its occupants. Imagine if an intruder breaks in using the known faults in your system, or if a fire devastates your property because the alarm system is outdated and not maintained.
Reviewing security hardware isn’t just about getting the latest and greatest tech; it is also about maintaining the overall security of assets and the occupants in your property.
With modern systems increasing the capabilities of security hardware, you can significantly improve safety around your property just by reviewing everything periodically.
Keep in mind that security and safety go hand in hand and that security hardware isn’t just about protecting you from thieves but also from environmental threats such as flooding, fire, infrastructure damage, and more.
So, instead of waiting half a decade to go through your system, it is best that you let a professional take care of your security needs annually!
CONTACT CALDER SECURITY
At Calder Security, we provide a comprehensive range of security solutions that include not just professional installation but also monitoring, maintenance, and repair services.
We are members of the Master Locksmith Association (MLA), approved members of the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB), and also conform to all the relevant British and EU Standards. We follow all the best practices in the industry and install only high-quality, state-of-the-art security systems.
We offer various levels of monitoring via a 24-hour monitoring centre using Dualcom and BT Redcare signalling, which is the most secure alarm monitoring system and the largest supplier of intelligent alarm signalling services in the UK.
We understand the importance of having to regularly maintaining security systems since the inability to do so might result in serious faults and consequent vulnerabilities in your property’s security.
We provide professional maintenance checks and reminders for when the checks are due to help you stay compliant with the law and work fast to restore your security systems to excellent condition.
We offer a 24-hour call-out service for customers and can also repair systems not installed by us. Our engineers are highly skilled and can restore faulty systems to full working order in one visit.
Contact us here or call us at 0800 612 9799 to talk to our experts for more information on why security systems should be reviewed every 5 to 7 years, the benefits of regular maintenance and review, and how we can help you make the most of your security systems with installation and maintenance that meet top industry standards.
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