CCTV Not Working

What's happening?

Home CCTV systems in the UK typically consist of cameras (wired or wireless), a DVR/NVR recorder, and sometimes cloud storage. When the system stops working, you lose both live viewing and recording capability, leaving your property unmonitored.

What usually causes it?

• DVR or NVR recorder has lost power or crashed
• Hard drive in the recorder has failed
• Camera power supply failure
• Network or Wi-Fi issue (for IP and wireless cameras)
• Cable damage between camera and recorder
• Camera lens or sensor fault

Is it dangerous?

A CCTV system that is not working presents no electrical safety risk. However, your property is left unmonitored. If the system stopped working after a lightning strike or power surge, other electrical equipment may also be affected.

Can I fix it myself?

Check the DVR or NVR has power and is turned on: look for lights on the front panel. Restart it by turning it off and on. Check the monitor or TV it connects to is on the correct input. For Wi-Fi cameras, check your router and the camera's Wi-Fi connection. For wired cameras, check the power supply to each camera.

When should you call an electrician?

Call an electrician if the recorder will not turn on, if cameras have no power and the supply is hardwired, if the hard drive has failed and needs replacing, or if the system stopped working after a power surge or lightning strike.

What will the electrician actually do?

• Diagnose whether the issue is with the recorder, cameras, or cabling
• Check power supplies to the recorder and cameras
• Test network connectivity for IP camera systems
• Replace the hard drive if it has failed
• Repair or replace damaged cameras or cables
• Reconfigure the system and test all cameras

Who fixes this

• CCTV installation

Questions people ask

Sources & References

1. Electrical Safety First: Safety Guidance
2. BS 7671: IET Wiring Regulations (18th Edition)
3. NICEIC: Householder Guidance