When it comes to securing your business, video surveillance is a powerful tool that provides peace of mind and acts as a deterrent against crime. One key decision to make is whether to invest in monitored or unmonitored video surveillance. Both systems have their benefits and limitations, and your choice will depend on your security needs and budget. Here, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each system, with a focus on how monitored video surveillance can provide enhanced protection.
What Is Monitored Video Surveillance?
Monitored video surveillance involves real-time observation of your cameras by a professional security team or monitoring center. These systems typically alert the monitoring company when an unusual event, like motion detection or an alarm trigger, occurs. The team can assess the situation and take immediate action, such as alerting law enforcement or contacting you.
Pros of Monitored Video Surveillance
Increased Deterrence
The presence of a monitored system can be a strong deterrent to criminals. Knowing that someone is watching in real-time, with the ability to dispatch law enforcement, makes your property a much less attractive target. For this reason, SentriForce installs prominent signage alerting visitors to your property that their movements are under active surveillance.
Immediate Response to Threats
One of the key benefits of monitored surveillance is the ability to respond immediately to suspicious activity. If a potential break-in occurs, the monitoring team can quickly notify the police, minimizing the time intruders have to cause trouble on your property. This can significantly reduce the chances of theft, vandalism and other unwanted incidents.
24/7 Protection
With monitored surveillance, your property is under constant watch — even when you’re asleep, at work or on vacation. You don’t have to worry about checking your camera feeds or responding to alerts on your phone; the monitoring team handles that for you.
Cons of Monitored Surveillance
Cost
Monitored surveillance systems typically come with ongoing fees for professional monitoring services. While the enhanced security is often worth the investment, the recurring cost can be a drawback for those on an especially tight budget.
Privacy Concerns
Some users may feel uncomfortable knowing a third-party monitoring team has access to their video feeds, even if it’s for security purposes. However, many monitoring companies prioritize privacy and only access feeds when alerts are triggered.
What is Unmonitored Video Surveillance?
Unmonitored surveillance systems record footage that you can access remotely. They may include motion detection alerts that notify you directly of unusual activity, but there’s no professional monitoring involved. It’s up to you to respond to any incidents.
Pros of Unmonitored Surveillance
Lower Cost
Unmonitored systems typically come with no ongoing fees after the initial installation.
No Third-Party Access
Since there’s no monitoring team involved, only you have access to your video feeds. This may provide peace of mind for those concerned with privacy or data security.
Cons of Unmonitored Surveillance
Delayed or No Response to Threats
One major drawback of unmonitored systems is that you’re responsible for responding to alerts. If a break-in occurs while you’re asleep or unavailable, precious time may be lost, giving criminals the upper hand. Unmonitored systems rely on your constant vigilance and availability.
Increased Responsibility
Managing your own security system can be overwhelming. You need to monitor alerts, decide which are worth responding to and contact the authorities if necessary. This can be particularly stressful in high-pressure situations, such as active break-ins.
Limited Deterrence
While cameras alone can deter some criminals, the lack of real-time monitoring reduces the deterrent effect. Criminals may feel emboldened if they know that no one is watching the cameras live.
Why Monitored Video Surveillance Is the Safer Choice
While unmonitored video surveillance offers some benefits, particularly in terms of cost and control, it comes with significant drawbacks. Monitored video surveillance provides round-the-clock protection, immediate response to threats and the reassurance of knowing that trained professionals are watching over your property. For anyone looking to truly safeguard their property, the added layer of security that comes with a monitored system is often worth the monthly investment.
If you want a system that does more than just capture footage, but actively protects you and responds to threats in real-time, monitored video surveillance is the smart choice. Contact us today to learn more about how our comprehensive monitoring services can provide you with peace of mind and top-tier protection.
