Setting up a smart CCTV system can greatly boost your home’s security — but only if it’s done right. In 2025, many homeowners across Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast are installing smart security cameras, but common setup mistakes can leave your home just as vulnerable as before.
Here’s how to avoid the most frequent errors we see in Queensland homes.
1. Installing Cameras Too High or Too Low
The Mistake:
Mounting cameras too high (like near the roofline) reduces facial visibility, while placing them too low makes them easy to tamper with.
The Fix:
Position cameras at 2.1–2.4 metres above the ground — high enough to avoid tampering but low enough to capture clear facial features.
2. Not Checking Wi-Fi Signal Strength
The Mistake:
Outdoor cameras placed too far from your router can suffer from weak or unstable connections, leading to frozen video or missed alerts.
The Fix:
Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to test the signal where you plan to install. For weak spots, add a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system — especially in larger Queensland homes with outdoor yards.
3. Ignoring Queensland’s Weather Conditions
The Mistake:
Using indoor cameras or non-IP-rated devices for outdoor areas, especially in coastal suburbs like Burleigh Heads or Mooloolaba.
The Fix:
Choose cameras with at least an IP65 weather resistance rating and make sure they can handle heat, humidity, and salt air (common on the Sunshine Coast).
4. Poor Night Vision Placement
The Mistake:
Installing night vision cameras too close to reflective surfaces like walls, white fences, or windows. This causes IR glare, making footage useless.
The Fix:
Angle cameras away from reflective objects and test night performance before finalising installation.
5. Weak Passwords or No Two-Factor Authentication
The Mistake:
Leaving the camera with the default password — an open invitation to hackers.
The Fix:
Always change the default login, create a strong password, and enable 2FA (two-factor authentication) through the camera’s app for added security.
Cyber Tip: Brands like Arlo and Eufy support encrypted video and 2FA by default — always choose trusted providers.
6. Overlooking Blind Spots
The Mistake:
Installing cameras that only cover entry doors but ignoring vulnerable access points like side gates, garages, or sliding doors.
The Fix:
Before buying cameras, do a walk-around audit of your property. Consider common break-in points in your suburb (e.g., sheds in suburban Brisbane or beachside rear doors on the Gold Coast).
7. Not Backing Up Footage
The Mistake:
Relying solely on local SD cards, which can get damaged, stolen, or run out of space.
The Fix:
Use a cloud-enabled camera or set up an external NAS (Network Attached Storage) backup. Brands like Swann and TP-Link Tapo offer cloud plans suited for Australian users.
Security Camera Mistakes & Quick Fixes
| Mistake | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Wrong camera height | 2.1–2.4m is ideal |
| Weak Wi-Fi | Use extenders or mesh systems |
| Wrong camera type | IP65+ for outdoor use |
| Night vision glare | Avoid reflective surfaces |
| Weak login security | Change passwords & enable 2FA |
| Ignoring blind spots | Walk-around audit your home |
| No footage backup | Use cloud or external storage |
Bonus Tip: Hire a Local Expert for Best Results
If you’re unsure about placement, setup, or app configuration — don’t risk it.
We provide professional CCTV installation services across:
- Brisbane: All suburbs including Chermside, Carindale, and Logan
- Gold Coast: Southport, Robina, Burleigh Waters
- Sunshine Coast: Maroochydore, Noosa, Caloundra.
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