Setting up home security cameras
Property crime in Australia has been declining since 20011, and one possible contributing factor is the increased access to — and quality of — home security cameras.
There are many types of home security systems on the market, from traditional alarm systems to CCTV, and they’re cheaper and easier to install than ever. But what’s the best option for your home?
Why is home security important?
As well as protecting your things, a home security system can help keep you and the people you live with safe from intruders. They can often deter burglars, who are usually opportunists.
Of course, a security system can’t totally prevent break-ins. If you do fall victim to theft, attempted theft or vandalism, AAMI Home Insurance could help cover loss or damage caused by thieves or burglars such as repairing damage to your home or replacing stolen items2. And if you do need to make a claim for a break-in, having footage could prove useful — so your insurance and your security set-up can complement each other.
Choosing a home security system
Traditional alarm systems
A traditional alarm system, also known as an intruder alarm, operates from a control panel that’s connected to motion sensors and reed switches around your house. If these devices are triggered, the alarm will sound.
A back-to-base alarm is another popular type of intruder alarm. This kind of alarm system may be monitored by a security organisation. If it’s triggered, the organisation will receive an alert that your alarm has been activated. They will then contact you, dispatch security or notify the police to investigate.
You might find this type of alarm more effective than an alarm that only makes noise. Though that kind may alert your neighbours if there’s an issue, you’ll likely be notified of a break-in much more quickly with a back-to-base alarm system.
CCTV
A Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) system involves installing cameras on the outside (and sometimes inside) of your property, and can be either wireless or wired, depending on your needs and budget. These cameras record the activity around your house, instead of alerting you or a security organisation that there’s been a break-in.
With a CCTV system, you’re often able to view the footage remotely on your laptop or phone. You may also be able to review it after an incident, which can support your insurance claim or provide evidence in court if you decide to press charges.
Often, CCTV is used in addition to an intruder alarm system. Cameras can be an effective way to visually deter burglars but, without the added sound alert, they may not be as effective.
Setting up home security cameras
With heaps of wireless security options now on the market, setting up a home security system has never been quicker or easier. Just always remember to follow the instructions that come with the unit. And if you’re unsure, or your system’s installation exceeds your DIY ability, it may be useful to have it installed by a professional.
How a home security system could support your insurance claim
CCTV footage recorded during an incident may help to substantiate your insurance claim. If you’re an AAMI customer, you can:
- send an mp4 file (no larger than 15MB) to myclaim@aami.com.au with your claim number in the subject line
- post a USB drive to AAMI Insurance, GPO Box 2988, Brisbane Qld 4001, or
- upload your footage to a video sharing website, like YouTube, as a private link. You can include this link with your claim if you’re using the AAMI App or submitting it online, or you can email it to us.
Why insure your home with AAMI
Besides peace of mind, here are a few benefits of having a home insurance policy with AAMI:
- 24/7 support via our online chat function.
- Simple online claims lodgement process – plus no need to wait on hold!
- Update policy details, make and track claims, or renew policies whenever you want with the AAMI App.
Read more:
- How to prevent home burglary
- How much should you insure your house for?
- How dash cams can affect your car insurance claim
1 https://aic.gov.au/publications/tandi/tandi495
2 Please note we do not cover loss or theft if the alarms, door locks or window locks you told us were installed, were in fact not installed, not in working condition or disconnected. Policy limits, exclusions and conditions apply – refer to the relevant PDS for full terms.
Insurance is issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859 (AAI) trading as AAMI. Any advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situation or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it. Please read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before you make any decision regarding this product. The Target Market Determination is also available. We do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss incurred as a result of reliance upon a home security system – please make your own enquiries.
The information is intended to be of general nature only. Subject to any rights you may have under any law, we do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss or damage, including loss of business or profits or any other indirect loss, incurred as a result of reliance upon the information. Please make your own enquiries.