We all love a bargain. But buying security equipment second hand is risky!
Here's why you should have second thoughts about second handhome security...
Boot sales, online auctions and marketplace apps make it easier than ever to buy or sell used items. There are some great deals to be had on furniture, decor and designer handbags!
We saw a social media marketplace post offering second hand CCTV equipment. There were a few cameras so the seller was willing to split them between buyers.
That's a big red flag!
There was only one recording unit... the cameras alone are no use! You can't even use them as decoys - which are easily spotted by most burglars, so not worth having.
The seller clearly knew nothing apart from the money he wanted to make.
Security equipment installation is like surgery - amateurs can cause agony! That got us thinking about how many used security systems must go up for sale online...
Other problems with used, cheap home security
You're buying old, probably outdated tech. 700TVL or 960H analogue cameras can't compare to HD or IP image quality that helps police to identify criminals.
The hard drive may be too small. This means either no live recording or deleting footage daily. That's useless if you're away for a long weekend or two weeks in the sun!
Old cables can have unseen wear and tear that cause degraded images or lack of connection. You won't know this until it's too late.
Wireless home alarm systems will need every single battery found, sourced and replaced to be sure they're working. By the time you've done that you might as well have had a professional installation!
Configuring your router securely so your signal can't be hacked is no quick DIY job.
How would you be sure the system has been properly wiped of the previous owners data?
Has the kit been maintained? Neglected systems are ripe for breakdown and failure.
Secondhand equipment won't come with a guarantee or warranty. So you'll need to wait for it to go wrong, hope you spot when it does and THEN find someone able to fix it in a decent time frame.
... to name a few.
It's a lot to leave to chance, isn't it? Even if you're lucky with the equipment and manage to fit it correctly you'll never be completely sure.
Cost vs value
When your second hand kit does eventually fail you, then what?
Contacting the old owner and seller is not an option - it's not their problem. You bought it!
If the system was installed by a qualified professional, and happened to experience a fault (which is far less likely), a team of experts would be at the end of the phone to help.
Qualified, accredited professionals cost more than second hand kit. But the peace of mind your high quality, reliable system will offer you is priceless. Used equipment won't take your pets, teenagers or extension plans into consideration! Proper protection takes planning, which is where we can help you.
Look through the expert's eyes
We've been safeguarding family homes for years. Our knowledge and experience means we know how and where to install your equipment to beat the burglars!
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This article is provided for general information and educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, a fire risk assessment, a compliance audit, a technical specification, or a substitute for advice based on inspection of your premises. You should not rely on it as the basis for taking action, delaying action, or deciding not to act. Your legal duties, fire safety arrangements and system requirements depend on your specific premises, use, occupancy, risk profile and the findings of a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment.
Fire safety and security legislation, standards, guidance and enforcement practice can change. Blake Fire & Security Systems makes no representations or guarantees, express or implied, that content on this site is accurate, complete or current. For practical advice about fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, security systems or system maintenance requirements for your premises, Call Blake's on 01702 447800. For legal advice, fire risk assessment advice or confirmation of your statutory duties, speak to an appropriately qualified legal adviser, competent fire risk assessor or competent fire safety professional.
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Beat the Burglar
Many people leave their homes vulnerable to burglars. Thankfully there are a number of simple, common sense things to put in place to keep the burglars OUT!
Read how installing an easy to use, reliable access control system allowed the reception staff to fully control entry to the entire building. It helped with the school's improved Ofsted rating too!
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