We've been called to too many businesses in Philadelphia, Bucks County, and South Jersey where a security camera system was installed but the footage is unusable. The cameras are there. The system records. But when you need to identify a face, read a license plate, or see what actually happened — the video is too dark, too blurry, or pointed at the wrong angle.
These mistakes aren't expensive to avoid, but they're expensive to fix. Here's what we see over and over — and how to avoid each one.
The 8 Most Common Security Camera Installation Mistakes
01Mounting Cameras Too High
Cameras mounted above 15 feet capture the tops of heads instead of faces. The ideal height is 8–10 feet for facial identification and 10–14 feet for general area monitoring. Always mount cameras at the height that matches your intended purpose.
02Pointing Cameras Into Direct Light
Sunlight, bright windows, and artificial lights pointed directly at the camera create backlighting that produces silhouettes. Position cameras with the light behind them, and use WDR cameras for areas with mixed lighting conditions.
03Not Covering All Entry and Exit Points
Every door, window, and loading dock that someone could use to enter or exit should be covered. Criminals find gaps quickly. A comprehensive site assessment ensures no entry point is overlooked.
04Using Too Few Cameras
Skimping on camera count to save money creates blind spots that make the entire system less effective. One camera covering a 200-foot warehouse aisle is useless for identifying faces or incidents. Invest in proper coverage.
05Ignoring Parking Lots and Loading Areas
Most commercial theft and vandalism occurs in parking lots, loading docks, and exterior areas. These areas should be covered with high-resolution cameras capable of capturing license plates and faces at night.
06Poor Cable Management
Exposed cables are vulnerable to tampering, weather damage, and accidental disconnection. Professional installation uses conduit, cable trays, and proper weatherproofing to protect wiring and maintain reliability.
07Neglecting Night Vision Quality
Many businesses test cameras during the day but never verify night performance. Night vision quality varies dramatically between camera models. Test IR distance, color night vision capability, and image clarity in complete darkness.
08Not Securing the Recording System
An NVR or recording server should be in a locked, climate-controlled room. Leaving it in an unsecured utility closet or accessible office makes it easy for an intruder to steal or destroy your footage — defeating the entire purpose.
How to Avoid These Mistakes
The single best way to avoid security camera installation mistakes is to work with a professional, licensed low voltage contractor who specializes in commercial security systems. At NTC, we:
- Conduct a thorough on-site assessment of your property before recommending any equipment
- Design camera coverage based on your specific risks, not just the number of cameras in a package
- Test camera angles and lighting conditions at multiple times of day
- Install commercial-grade equipment designed for 24/7 operation
- Properly manage and protect all cabling with conduit and weatherproofing
- Secure recording equipment in locked, climate-controlled locations
- Provide staff training and ongoing support
NTC has been installing commercial security camera systems for businesses throughout Philadelphia, Bensalem, Doylestown, Newtown, and South Jersey since 1978. We offer free on-site assessments and system designs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get Your Security Cameras Installed Right the First Time
NTC installs professional security camera systems for businesses throughout Philadelphia, Bucks County, Montgomery County, and South Jersey. Free on-site assessments and system designs.