Does it Matter who I have Install my Camera System?

Does it Matter who I have Install my Camera System?

Obviously you want only professionals to perform needed work at your home or business. There are many rules, codes and even laws about who can perform certain work, like electrical and plumbing. But when it comes to a camera system, does it really matter if the installer is a licensed security professional? In these times of DIY and plug and play, is it safe to have your A/V tech or networking guy handle your CCTV needs as well? The answer is only yes if they have obtained a security license through the Texas DPS.

Texas requires any company or individual that sells, services or installs security cameras to have a class B security services contractor license. This is also true for your alarm and any access control you may have installed. So if you are using a general contractor, A/V professional or IT company to install your system, you may be taking a risk you didn’t realize.

Why a Licensed Professional is Best

In Texas, the private security business is governed by the Texas Department of Public Safety. If they discover someone providing security services without a license, they can criminally prosecute the person and impose a $4,000 fine. Those penalties also apply to anyone who hires an unlicensed company – that’s a big deterrent right there!

The licensing board also has processes and reviews in place to ensure quality work. To keep the industry professional, uphold standards, ethics and to protect consumers and businesses, they have a number of requirements.

Licensed businesses and individuals are required to carry certain levels of insurance. This protects against damage as well as injury that an employee may incur at a customer site.
A B security services license/registration includes an extensive background check of the owner and all employees. This ensures the people who are installing your security systems have no criminal history and you can feel comfortable having them in your home and business and accessing your equipment.
License renewal requires a number of continuing education credits for all employees and the owner, including an ethics class. This keeps security professionals up to speed on the latest trends and technology as well as sound business practices.
The complaint system keeps businesses on their toes. No business wants their license tainted by customer complaints. Customer service is a big priority to ensure that customers are happy with their new system.
Companies must have a manager who meets requirements for years of experience and has passed an exam. This prevents someone from starting their own business without the needed practical knowledge and experience.

How do I Know if a Company is Legit?

Be sure to do some research as well as a gut check before signing up with a security company. If their price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Google the company and see if they have an actual physical address and any reviews on Yelp, Angie’s List or other sites. Do they have a website and does it seem like it was professionally done? What about a social media presence? Profiles on Yelp, social media and directory sites are all free so even a small business that is new or on a tight budget should have some presence online.

Also check the product set they are quoting you. A professional CCTV installer should have relationships with both manufacturers and distributors. If you can find the products they are quoting you at retail electronics stores, this is a good sign the company does not have access to higher grade offerings.

A license is the easiest way to confirm a company is on the up and up. You can search any individual or business on the Texas Department of Public Safety Texas Online Private Security website. From the home page. click on search licenses and then choose businesses or individuals. If you select businesses, it will ask you what type of license. Select Alarm for sure and Electronic access if you are also doing access control. Then type in the name and click Search. If nothing comes up, the company or individual is not licensed. See screenshots of the steps below.

Cultris Security is Licensed and Registered!

Cultris Security Systems can help you with all of your home or business security needs. We are licensed by the Texas DPS Private Security Board and registered with the Texas Department of Insurance State Fire Marshal’s Office. Call us at 281-506-8466 or visit us online today!