How Long Can a CCTV Footage Be Kept?

What are CCTV Cameras and Their Significance?

CCTV cameras have become increasingly popular and part of modern security; they can be seen installed in all commercial or residential areas worldwide. Their numbers have increased in the last couple of years because it is the most economical option for security comparatively. They not only act as a crime deterrent but also for crime-solving, as the recorded footage, according to the law, can be used in court as legitimate evidence.

Moreover, they also help improve insurance rates, which are crucial for safety, security and well-being. Though there are several benefits of CCTV cameras, there are laws and regulations to ensure people don’t misuse, breach privacy and use them for security reasons. Among laws, one relates to how long CCTV footage can be kept.

How Long Can CCTV Footage Be Kept?

The answer to this question is not easy; there are many factors involved regarding this question, including:

• The number of cameras
• The method of recording
• The amount of storage available
• The resolution of the cameras
• Finally, the purpose of recording

Hence, the answer is simple – mainly, it depends on your available storage.

Moreover, before discussing how long it will last, let us discuss how to store CCTV Footage.

• Servers and recorders: The Network Video Recorder (NVR) and Digital Video Recorder (DVR) are external devices to keep CCTV footage. Though both record videos, the ways differ. The DVR processes the video at the recorder, while NVR encrypts and processes it at the camera.
• Surveillance Hard Drive: As these drives are active all the time, they record footage around the clock. These devices are designed to write data operations 90% of the time and 10% of the playback time.
• Cloud Storage: Latest IP cameras include cloud storage, and users can easily store footage with the help of the internet. The footage will be recorded without electricity if one has a wireless 4G or 5G connection.
• SD Card Storage: There are many cameras with in-built storage; however, it’s limited. Therefore, an SD card is necessary and helpful to save particular footage.

A CCTV camera consumes a lot of space, so most hard disks are 1 TB. These can be changed according to the business and homeowner’s requirements and preferences.

Generally, the footage lasts around 3 to 12 months, and the old footage deletes automatically. One has to keep in mind that the types of cameras differ and storage options are also different; ensure to choose one that best matches your preference.

The storage capacity also depends on numerous factors:

• How many cameras are installed - NVR or DVR
• What storage method is being used for camera storage
• How many additional devices are installed
• What is the in-built capacity of the CCTV cameras
• Whether its recording 24/7

How Long Do Companies Typically Keep Security Camera Footage on Hand?

• Each business has its own video surveillance needs.
• A business should have at least a capacity of 1 month; if one has a larger business, it must have a capacity of at least 3 months to store the footage.

How Long Do Residents Typically Keep Security Camera Footage on Hand?

• It is recommended that homeowners choose a storage capacity that can store footage for at least a week.
• Once installed, as a homeowner, you would know you don’t need footage older than 1 month.
• Or, you will know whether you need to hold on to old footage in a couple of days.
• There is no hard and fast rule; homeowners can keep footage for more than 1 month as they see fit.

CCTV Storage Options

• The law must secure the data recorded by the CCTV cameras and can only be accessed by law.
• You must ensure that data is deleted automatically without you having to delete it manually.
• Also, ensure they are safe from being misused, stolen and hacked.
• One can use cloud, camera or SSD Card storage.
• With the cloud, you can easily access the data and store the footage for as long as you want.
• One can also automatically schedule it to be deleted after 15 to 30 days.