CCTV Inspection Checklist for Security Contractors
A CCTV inspection proves two things: each camera still sees what it is supposed to see, and the recorder is keeping usable footage of it. Use the checklist below on your next visit. Software to run it is planned, not available yet.
Camera by camera, then the recorder
Practical checks for a video surveillance system inspection. Keep a reference snapshot per camera so the next visit can compare the view.
Each camera — physical
- Camera and mount are secure; no tampering or impact damage
- Housing, dome and lens are clean and free of moisture
- Cabling and connections are protected and weather-sealed
- Nothing new blocks the view (signage, plants, stock)
- Heater or blower works on outdoor housings, where installed
Each camera — image
- Field of view matches the agreed coverage
- Focus is sharp across the scene
- Daytime image: exposure and color are usable
- Night / IR image is usable at the distances that matter
- PTZ presets and tours move to the right positions
- Snapshot saved for the next visit's comparison
Recorder (NVR / DVR / VMS)
- Every camera is recording, with no gaps in the timeline
- Footage is kept for the agreed retention period
- System time is correct and synchronized
- Drive health and storage capacity are within limits
- Playback works for a sample camera and time
- Export produces a usable clip
Network, power and access
- PoE switch and power supplies are within capacity
- UPS for the recorder and switches is tested
- Video loss and recording-failure alerts reach the right people
- Remote viewing works for the customer's users
- User accounts reviewed; default passwords not in use
- Firmware versions recorded for cameras and recorder
The live view alone is not proof. A camera can look perfect while nothing is recorded, so always check playback for the same camera.
The evidence is visual, so the record should be too
No before-and-after view
Without a saved snapshot, nobody can tell whether a camera has drifted since the last visit.
Recording gaps found too late
A dead drive or a lost stream often surfaces only when the customer asks for footage.
Dozens of cameras, one note
"All cameras OK" in a notes field does not say which cameras were actually checked.
How CCTV inspection software could work
Planned, not available. Inspect → Record Deficiencies → Recommend Corrective Action → Document Completion.
A camera list per site
Each camera and recorder as its own record, with the last visit's snapshot attached.
Camera-by-camera checklist
The checks above, with a photo or screenshot on the item that failed.
A report the customer can read
Which cameras passed, which failed, and the recommended repair for each.
CCTV inspection questions
What is on a CCTV inspection checklist?
Two parts. Per camera: physical condition, field of view against the agreed coverage, focus, day and night image quality, and whether the stream reaches the recorder. Per recorder: that every camera is recording, footage is kept for the agreed retention period, the clock is correct, drives are healthy, and footage can be played back and exported.
How often should CCTV systems be maintained?
It depends on the site and the service agreement. Many contractors visit quarterly, semi-annually or annually, with more frequent checks on outdoor cameras exposed to dirt, weather or tampering. Follow the manufacturer's guidance and anything the customer or their insurer requires.
Why check playback and export, not just the live view?
A camera can show a perfect live picture while nothing is being recorded, or while the recorder's clock is wrong. Footage only helps a customer if it was recorded, kept, time-stamped correctly and can be exported when it is needed.
Does Fire Inspect Hub have CCTV inspection software?
Not yet. CCTV inspection software is planned, not available. Fire Inspect Hub inspects fire protection systems today. Join the early-access list to hear if video surveillance inspections launch.
Can I use this CCTV maintenance checklist now?
Yes. The checklist on this page is free to use on paper or in a spreadsheet. Add the manufacturer's maintenance steps for the cameras and recorders at each site.
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Tell us what you inspect
Security inspection software is planned, not available. Join the early-access list and your answers help decide which systems we cover first. If we launch, early-access contractors hear first, and we may offer introductory pricing — nothing about pricing or a launch date is promised.