Where to Place Security Cameras

Key Takeaways

• Security cameras should be placed near entrances, driveways, and high-traffic areas
• Indoor cameras can be installed as well to maximize security
• Keep cameras out of reach so they can’t be tampered with

After buying a new home, one of the smartest things you can do is make it secure. Locking your doors is a given, but adding security cameras gives you an extra layer of protection.t. A comprehensive system of security cameras can serve as a deterrent to potential intruders or serve as evidence to help you get your stuff back if anything gets stolen.  

Where to place home security cameras

While you don’t need to track every square foot of your house, there are certain key areas that are best to monitor with security cameras. Areas that provide access to the house or might contain valuable items and are especially important to keep tabs on. Here are some of the key locations throughout your home where you should have a camera.

1. Windows

Most thieves aren’t going to knock on your front door to get into your home. Left unattended, windows can serve as a potential entry point for unwelcome guests. This is especially true for first-floor windows, which is why putting security cameras near them is so important. 

2. Front door and other entryways

In the case that a potential thief does intend to break in through the front door, it’s critical that your home’s main entrance is within view of a security camera. Other entrances, such as those leading in from the backyard or patio, should also be accounted for. Side and back entrances might be preferred targets because they aren’t as visible to neighbors and bystanders, so make sure you have cameras with visibility in those areas.

3. Driveways

Security cameras can also be used to keep your car safe. Keep in mind that most car break-ins and thefts happen at night, so make sure your cameras have night vision capabilities. Although cameras alone might not always be enough to prevent your car from being stolen, they can definitely help you get it back. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, 34% of cars that were reported stolen within 24 hours were recovered on the same day, and 45% were recovered within 48 hours.

4. Stairways and hallways

You may not have any valuables lying around in the halls of your house, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be monitored. Intruders going from room to room will inevitably pass through hallways and staircases, so having visibility in these areas can help you keep eyes on them. Even if they enter through an area that isn’t monitored, like a bathroom, you can still get eyes on them as they move throughout the house.

5. Common areas

It’s also important to have security cameras in high-traffic areas like the living room or kitchen. Living rooms can house high-value items like laptops, TVs, and gaming consoles. If one of them were to turn up missing, you’d probably want to have footage of the suspect. Cameras can also be incredibly useful when repairs or maintenance are taking place at your house when you’re away. 

Where shouldn’t you install security cameras?

Avoid placing cameras where they could violate someone’s privacy – inside bathrooms or bedrooms, or facing a neighbor’s property.

Best practices for installing security cameras

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind so you can get the most out of your cameras:

• Avoid aiming cameras directly at the sun; angle them toward entry points or high-traffic areas instead
• Make sure the cameras have a clear line of sight – trim plants or remove objects blocking the lens
• Security cameras can act as a deterrent, so make sure they’re visible
• Install in corners for the largest possible field of view

FAQs about where to place security cameras

What’s the best height to install security cameras?

The ideal height of a camera depends on the target distance you want to view. For a home security camera on the first floor, make sure your cameras are at least eight feet off the ground or inside a window so they can’t easily be tampered with.

Should I install security cameras above or below lighting fixtures?

Positioning cameras below light fixtures illuminates the field of view without the light obstructing the camera.

Should security cameras be visible or hidden?

As we mentioned earlier, visible security cameras can dissuade thieves from targeting your home. However, hidden cameras can be effective because how can you tamper with a camera you can’t even see? 

A final note on placing security cameras in your home

Knowing where to place security cameras throughout your home is a great way to keep your property safe. The right setup can deter intruders from trying to enter your home or, at the very least, help you track them down along with anything they might have stolen.