Renovating your BTO flat is a big milestone in any Singaporean’s life. It’s the perfect time to personalise your space and upgrade your home security with a reliable home CCTV system. But before you start drilling and wiring, there are a few things you should know to avoid common mistakes that could cost you time and money.
Here’s what to watch out for when planning a home CCTV installation in Singapore—especially during renovation works.
Planning CCTV Layout Early Helps Avoid Renovation Rework
When you’re doing a full renovation, don’t leave your CCTV planning to the last minute. Early layout planning ensures your cables are properly hidden, and cameras are placed where they provide maximum coverage.
Key Points to Discuss with Your Renovation Contractor:
Camera placement: Main door, living room, corridor, service yard
Cable routing: Concealed inside walls or ceiling for cleaner look
Power sources: Ensure power sockets are installed near each camera
Internet access: Strong Wi-Fi signal for cloud-connected CCTV systems
By coordinating your home CCTV installation with your ID or contractor, you’ll avoid drilling over freshly painted walls or redoing wiring later.
HDB Renovation Guidelines That Affect Camera Placement
Even though you're enhancing security, HDB flats come with specific rules you must follow—especially for installations facing shared corridors or external areas.
Common Restrictions in BTOs:
| Area | CCTV Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Inside your flat | ✅ Yes | No approval needed |
| Main door (inside only) | ✅ Yes | Keep within unit boundary |
| Common corridor (outside) | ⚠️ Limited | May need HDB or TC approval |
If unsure, always check with your contractor or suppliers like Kirin CCTV, who are familiar with home CCTV installation Singapore regulations.
Choosing Between Wired and Wireless CCTV Systems
Not all CCTV systems are the same. While some homeowners prefer wireless models for flexibility, others choose wired systems for stability—especially during renovation when you can hide the cables neatly.
A Quick Comparison:
| Feature | Wired CCTV | Wireless CCTV |
|---|---|---|
| Signal | More stable | Depends on Wi-Fi |
| Installation | Needs cabling | Easier, but visible |
| Maintenance | Less frequent issues | May need signal checks |
Wired systems are often more suitable for new BTOs because you can fully conceal the setup during the renovation. This makes your home CCTV system look cleaner and more professional.
Don’t Forget to Plan for Data Storage and Remote Access
Another common mistake is forgetting about storage. Do you want to save footage on-site (via DVR/NVR) or on the cloud? The choice affects both the setup and the cost.
Consider These Factors:
Footage duration: How many days do you want to keep recordings?
Storage type: On-site (hard drives) or cloud-based?
Remote access: Use a mobile app for live viewing from anywhere
Kirin CCTV offers systems that support both local and cloud storage, giving you flexibility based on your needs and budget. Their team also provides guidance for secure and user-friendly home CCTV installation.
Working with Experienced Installers Makes a Big Difference
It’s tempting to try DIY setups from online marketplaces, but proper home CCTV installation Singapore goes beyond plugging in a camera. Poor setup can mean blind spots, unstable connections, or even voided warranties.
Why Professional Installers Are Worth It:
Ensure correct angles and field of view
Secure and tidy wiring
Familiar with HDB rules
Post-installation support
Partnering with an experienced provider like Kirin CCTV ensures your system works seamlessly with your BTO layout and gives you peace of mind from day one.
