Finding the correct height to install your CCTV camera can be crucial. Mounting them too low can invite vandalism, whilst mounting them too high degrades the field of view for an evidential worthwhile piece of footage, as well as the efficiency of the infra-red.
It is often assumed that mounting the camera really high near the soffit of a property is ideal as the camera is more discreet, plus there is often no wiring to be seen. Whilst mounting the camera this high is actually easier, this is something we often advise against, depending on your property type. This issue is so popular that even Britain’s most senior police officer, Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe of the Metropolitan Police has said:
“Ideally people should have two cameras – one high on the wall to capture the whole event and another to capture the faces of criminals. But those who were only able to use one should position CCTV apparatus at eye level”
“But few households had cameras installed, and those which did usually positioned them too high. Taking [pictures of] the tops of their heads is not that helpful for facial recognition which relies on the eyes and the configuration of the area around the nose and the mouth, so we’re trying to get people ideally to add another camera at face level.”
He said that most criminals were “pretty disorganised” and were unlikely to think about smashing up a camera if it was lower down.
“You don’t have to make it blindingly obvious,” he said. “The reason [people have put cameras] high is twofold – one is to keep it out of harm’s way and, as importantly, you get a whole shot of what happened at the event. But more relevant today is a face. That’s what we need.”
So what is the correct height?
Whilst there is not one answer for all, we generally recommend installing the camera between 2.4m – 2.6m high (about 8ft). This obviously depends on the type of property, and any render, tiles or other decor that may be apparent on the building. Not forgetting the type of camera that is being used, including the size of the lens.
Below are examples of cameras located at two different heights. You can see for yourself that the camera placed lower down provides a more wide angle view, better coverage of the road and also captures the ‘bay window’ area that would otherwise be missed.
If you like to benefit from our professional CCTV installation services and ensure your cameras are mounted at the correct height, please do not hesitate to contact us.
