Original publish date: 1st June 2022

Last updated: 1st September

How to install an outdoor security camera

A fifth of Brits (17%) say they’ve had items stolen from their garden, and one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your property is by installing an outdoor security camera. Our guide walks you through how to install an outdoor security camera yourself, explains the best placement options, and shows you how to stay within UK privacy law.

How to install an outdoor security camera: Step-by-step guide

We designed SimpliSafe’s Outdoor Camera for quick DIY setup, no hardwiring or professional help needed. Just make sure the battery is fully charged before you begin, then follow these steps:

1. Choose your position

You want a reliable signal, so choose a spot near your Base Station and WiFi router. Try to cover front or back doors, driveways, or garden gates.

2. Connect in the app

Open the SimpliSafe app, tap “add new camera,” and follow the instructions. Listen for a voice alert when pairing is complete, and you can then name the camera.

3. Check the live feed

Once connected, test the video feed in the app to find the best angle before drilling.

4. Gather your tools

You will need a drill, screws, wall anchors, a screwdriver, and a ladder.

5. Mount the bracket

The recommended height to mount your camera securely is between 2.4 m and 3 m. This captures faces clearly while keeping the camera out of easy reach. Twist the mounting cap from the camera dome. Drill two holes with a 7/64” bit, insert the anchors, and screw the mounting cap firmly to the wall.

6. Attach the dome

Twist the dome back onto the cap until you hear a click.

7. Fit the camera

Place the camera onto the dome mount and adjust using the live feed until the angle captures the area you want.

8. Secure and enhance

For a permanent fixture, use SimpliSafe’s outdoor camera permanent mount, or add a solar panel or charging cable for continuous power. Top tip: Adhesive mounts aren’t recommended outdoors – only drilling into mortar or timber gives a secure, weather-proof fit.

Check out our step-by-step video guide on how to install an outdoor security camera.

Why is outdoor security important?

Home security is essential to protect your property and family. From keeping your garden valuables safe to securing any entrances to your home, an Outdoor Camera will allow you to monitor for any suspicious activity, and act as a visible deterrent to trespassers. 

Research by Co-op Insurance showed that BBQs topped the list of most stolen items, followed by garden furniture and plant pots. Avoid the cost of replacing valuables and prevent damage to your property by installing outdoor security surveillance cameras.

Is it legal to have outdoor security cameras installed?

According to the Information Commissioner’s Office, UK homeowners have the right to install domestic CCTV cameras and smart doorbells on the outside of their property. However, you must take care to point cameras away from neighbours’ windows and gardens, shared spaces, or public streets.

Do I need a professional to set up my outdoor security camera?

That depends on the type of camera. Many outdoor security surveillance cameras use wiring and may benefit from an electrician. Fortunately, SimpliSafe’s wireless outdoor camera is designed for DIY setup, so you can install it in minutes.

If you’re running mains wiring, want hidden cabling, or are installing multiple cameras at once, a professional installer can work faster and neater.

Choosing the right outdoor camera

There are several types of outdoor cameras to consider:

• Wireless, battery-powered cameras. These are quick to install, allow flexible placement, and are ideal for rented homes.

• Wired cameras (mains or Power over Ethernet). These benefit from continuous power with higher reliability, but require more drilling and cable routing.

• Solar-assisted cameras. These use a panel to keep batteries charged, giving you similar reliability to wired cameras, but only if the panel is in a sunny location.

Most smart cameras use WiFi for alerts and live view, and integrate with other smart home apps, making them easier to manage. Some wired CCTV systems can record locally without WiFi, but you lose app-based access.

SimpliSafe offers an Outdoor Camera and Video Doorbell Pro, both of which integrate with the wider SimpliSafe system. Add a Bell Box alarm or 24/7 professional monitoring plan for complete coverage.

Planning and placement

Before you mount your camera, map out your property, looking at driveways, sheds, patio doors, or side returns. Check WiFi strength in these areas and ensure there’s no risk of sunlight shining into the lens.

Best places: front and back doors, garage, garden gate, driveway.

Where not to place: pointing into neighbours’ gardens, windows, or sensitive areas such as bathrooms.

Features of the SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera

The SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera is designed for UK conditions and integrates seamlessly with your system.

• 1080p HD video: Clear footage for identifying faces and vehicles.

• 140° field of view: Wide coverage so you can see more of your garden, drive, or entryway.

• Colour night vision: Crisp images even in low light.

• Digital zoom: Focus on key moments or suspicious activity from the app.

• Built-in spotlight: Automatically illuminates motion, deterring intruders before they get close.

• 90 dB siren: A loud siren to scare off trespassers when motion is detected.

• Two-way talk: Speak directly through the camera to deter a stranger or greet a delivery driver.

• Dual Wi-Fi antennas: Strong, stable connection to your router, wherever you mount the camera.

• Rechargeable battery: Long-lasting power that’s easy to swap; add a spare battery or connect a solar panel/cable for continuous charging.

For more advice on the best ways to optimise your home’s security, check out our SimpliSafe blog or get in touch with one of our professionals. Start customising your system to best suit your needs today.