💡 Key Highlights & Expert Takeaways
- ● Always verify whether the quoted cable is 100% solid copper or cheap copper-clad aluminium (CCA).
- ● Ensure the hard drive is a specialized surveillance model, not a refurbished desktop PC drive.
- ● Clarify whether conduit casing and junction boxes are included in the quotation.
- ● Check if the installer will configure mobile phone app access and demonstrate live viewing before taking final payment.
Smart Questions to Safeguard Your Security Investment
Hiring a CCTV service provider in Lucknow should be based on technical competence and clear communication rather than the lowest initial bid. Sub-standard cables and refurbished hard drives frequently fail within 6 months. Asking the right questions upfront protects your property and wallet.
The 10 Essential Questions
Ask your prospective CCTV technician these specific questions:
- ✓ 1. "What brand and model of cameras are you quoting?" (Ensure genuine Hikvision, CP PLUS, or Dahua models rather than unbranded generic clones).
- ✓ 2. "Is the hard drive brand new and specifically rated for surveillance?" (Look for WD Purple or Seagate SkyHawk with manufacturer warranty).
- ✓ 3. "What type of cable will be used?" (Demand 100% solid copper conductors; avoid cheap CCA wiring which causes voltage drop and video fuzziness).
- ✓ 4. "Will cables be routed through protective conduit pipes or left exposed?"
- ✓ 5. "Are weatherproof junction boxes included for all outdoor camera mountings?"
- ✓ 6. "How many days of video recording retention will this setup deliver?"
- ✓ 7. "Will you set up mobile remote viewing on our smartphones as part of the installation?"
- ✓ 8. "What happens if a camera stops working after 30 days?" (Clarify response procedures and service charges).
- ✓ 9. "Is the quotation itemized, showing hardware prices separately from installation labor?"
- ✓ 10. "Can we arrange a site visit in Lucknow to verify camera placement before drilling walls?"