Your monthly security system checklist: keep your CCTV running at its best
A security system you can't rely on is worse than no system at all, as it gives you false confidence. Most failures are preventable with a simple monthly routine that takes less than 15 minutes.
Here's your checklist.
Monthly checklist
| Task | What to check | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 🧹 Clean camera lenses | Wipe with a microfibre cloth. Dust and spider webs reduce image quality. | 5 min |
| ▶️ Verify recording is active | Check NVR is recording on all channels. Look for the record indicator. | 2 min |
| 💾 Check HDD health | NVR menu > Storage > HDD status. Look for warnings or errors. | 2 min |
| 🎯 Test motion detection | Walk in front of each camera and confirm alerts trigger correctly. | 3 min |
| 📱 Test remote access | Open your app (Hik-Connect, DMSS) and confirm live view loads. | 1 min |
| 🔄 Check for firmware updates | NVR menu > System > Firmware. Update if available. | 2 min |
| 🔔 Test intercom (if installed) | Press doorbell, confirm audio/video and door release function. | 2 min |
| 🗓️ Review footage retention | Confirm oldest footage is being overwritten correctly, not lost prematurely. | 1 min |
Quarterly tasks
These don't need monthly attention but should be done every 3 months:
- Check camera mounting: tighten any loose brackets and check weatherproofing seals
- Review camera angles: vegetation grows, vehicles move, blind spots appear
- Audit user access: remove old passwords or accounts no longer in use
- Test backup power: if you have a UPS, confirm it holds charge and switches correctly
- Review storage capacity: assess whether your retention period still meets your needs
Annual tasks
- Full system inspection: cables, connectors, housing condition
- Replace any cameras showing image degradation
- Review your system design. Has your property changed? New entry points?
- Update passwords across all devices
Warning signs to act on immediately
- ⚠️ Camera showing a black screen or "no signal"
- ⚠️ NVR HDD showing errors or "abnormal" status
- ⚠️ Motion detection not triggering
- ⚠️ Remote access failing consistently
- ⚠️ Footage gaps in the recording timeline
Don't ignore these. A camera that appears to be working but isn't recording is a common and costly oversight.
Need a service or repair?
Our team provides system health checks, camera replacements, and firmware updates as part of our installation and support service.
📞 Call 1300 888 767 or visit secureon.com.au
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