Decide what you need to see, place cameras to cover entrances and the till, choose how long to keep recordings, and treat footage of people as personal data: put up a notice and limit who can watch it.
A camera system is useful for deterring theft, resolving disputes and keeping an eye on the shop when you are away. The best systems are planned around what you need to see, not around the number of cameras in a box.
Decide what you need to see
Walk through the premises and list the places that matter: the entrance, the till, the stockroom, the back door and the parking or loading area. A camera that can clearly see a face at the door is often more useful than one that covers a whole room from far away.
Placement matters more than the number of cameras
- Mount cameras high enough to be out of easy reach, but low enough to see faces rather than the tops of heads.
- Avoid pointing cameras directly at bright windows or doors. Strong backlight turns people into silhouettes.
- Cover entrances and exits, cash points and areas where stock is kept.
- Think about lighting at night. Some cameras see in the dark, and others need light.
Recording and storage
Recordings are stored on a recorder or in the cloud. Decide how long you need to keep them, because longer storage needs more space. Check the recordings now and then to make sure the cameras are working and the picture is clear. A system that quietly stopped recording last month is worse than none.
Remote viewing needs internet
If you want to check the shop from your phone, the recorder needs a reliable internet connection and sensible security. Change default passwords on cameras and recorders, and do not leave them on their factory settings.
Power and cabling
Cameras and recorders need steady power. Protect them from surges and power cuts, and use proper cabling that is neat and protected from weather and tampering.
Treat footage of people responsibly
Recordings of identifiable people are personal information. In Kenya, the Data Protection Act 2019 applies to how businesses handle it. In practice, that means putting up a clear notice that CCTV is in use, limiting who can watch and copy footage, keeping it secure and not holding it longer than you need. The rules can change, so check the current requirements or take advice for your business.
Have it installed properly
Cameras are only as good as their positions, wiring and setup. CCTV installation is one of the services we offer businesses at Kichwa Connect, alongside computer and device support.
Frequently asked questions
How many cameras does a small shop need?
It depends on the layout and what you need to see. Start from the places that matter, such as the entrance, the till and the stockroom, rather than picking a number first.
Can I watch my cameras from my phone?
Usually, yes, if the system supports it and has a good internet connection. Secure it with strong passwords.
Do I have to tell people I have CCTV?
You should put up a clear notice. Recordings of people are personal data, so check the current data protection requirements for your business.
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