Community CCTV Control Room FAQ's
Security, Peace of Mind, Quality of Life
Community CCTV Control Room Monitored Cameras
Crime Watch SA’s CCTV network, part of the Safer Community Project, enhances safety with 439 (as of May 2025) control room monitored cameras across key suburbs. Supported by community contributions, our system helps prevent and detect crime. Below are answers to frequently asked questions about joining the project, camera installations, privacy concerns, and more.
How can I join the Crime Watch CCTV ‘Safer Community Project’ and contribute monthly?
At the time of writing, our network of 439 cameras has been developed through Crime Watch SA’s reinvestment of its profits, along with the generous contributions from private individuals, residential groups, Neighbourhood Watch organisations, and estate agents—many of whom donate a portion of each property sale in key suburbs. The system has grown thanks to their ongoing commitment to improving community safety, and the results speak for themselves: crime rates in these suburbs are notably low.
What truly sets Crime Watch SA apart from other armed response and monitoring companies is our extensive experience and proven success with CCTV as a central pillar of our crime-fighting strategy. Time and again, we’ve seen CCTV act as a powerful deterrent, and it continues to be a key factor in our success.
If you’d like to contribute to the continued development of the Safer Community Project, please get in touch with our sales team. They’ll be happy to guide you through the process. On behalf of Crime Watch SA and the wider community, we sincerely thank you for your support.
How can I initiate a camera installation in my street, and have it monitored by Crime Watch SA?
Please contact our sales department, who will be happy to meet with you and discuss the entire process. We have successfully completed similar projects in various communities, each with its own unique challenges.
Once you’ve defined the scope of the property and the area that needs coverage and agreed on the camera locations (which must be on private property), the sales department will provide you with a detailed breakdown of the costs. This will include the necessary internet connection/firewall requirements needed to transmit images back to our control room.
Our sales team will gladly attend meetings with residential groups to explain the project, answer questions about the installation, monitoring, and Crime Watch SA policies. Once everything is agreed upon and the funds are raised, installation typically takes place within two weeks, weather permitting.
Please note: We only install and/or monitor cameras from trusted brands that are compliant with our rigorous monitoring standards and are built to withstand our harsh environment, particularly in coastal areas.
What should I do if my neighbour and/or I do not want our properties shown on the CCTV camera?
Quite often, a group of residents in a street, road, or close will come together to fund a camera that covers their properties, particularly the street. These are usually PTZ (Pan Tilt & Zoom) cameras, which can cover the entire area. However, some individuals feel that CCTV cameras are an invasion of privacy and absolutely do not want any part of their property covered. We completely respect these views. In such cases, the areas of the property that need to be excluded are 'masked' within the system and cannot be altered by anyone in the control room, ensuring that the individual's privacy is fully protected. The sales department will provide proof of the areas that have been 'masked' for your approval, and any necessary amendments can be made until you are completely satisfied.
Can my CCTV evidence be used in court?
Video footage and images are date and time-stamped when backed up, ensuring they cannot be altered. This guarantees their validity and allows them to be used as evidence in court.
Where are the Crime Watch SA CCTV/LPR and thermal cameras?
We do not disclose the specific locations of our camera network, but it is continuously expanding. At the time of writing, we have 439 monitored cameras operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, at our central control room, covering all the main suburbs where we provide Armed Response services, including Sunset Beach, Milnerton Ridge, Royal Ascot, Montague Gardens, Milnerton Central, and Tijgerhof. Unlike most armed response companies, we invest in this infrastructure to enhance neighbourhood security. The network includes LPR (License Plate Recognition) cameras and thermal cameras, which allow us to track the movement of people, even at night, through areas like the vlei.
What is Crime Watch SA's policy on CCTV monitoring within its network?
Crime Watch SA has contracts with a range of clients, from commercial businesses to residential complexes and private homes, for CCTV monitoring over specific periods. In residential areas that are part of the ‘Safer Communities Project,’ where monitoring is not paid for, Crime Watch SA monitors cameras in three main ways: Prevention, Routine Patrolling, and Detection.
- Prevention – Criminals often move across different areas. Our CCTV network, supported by black screen monitoring, alerts our control room operators to intrusions or suspicious activity in real time. This enables them to track movements effectively and guide our Armed Response Officers to respond swiftly in our main coverage areas.
- Routine CCTV Patrolling – The CCTV network is regularly monitored either within its contractual obligations or in routine patrolling mode. Operators focus on individual cameras throughout the day and night, logging their observations. PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) cameras often cover multiple streets, allowing operators to scan and monitor various areas. While cameras are always visible to the operators, they can’t monitor each one continuously, which would be cost-prohibitive.
- Detection – In the event of a break-in, while Armed Response Officers are deployed, the control room starts tracking suspects, whether on foot or in a vehicle. Although we're limited by the coverage of the network, as it expands, detection improves. If suspicious activity is detected, that becomes the priority for the control room, as our primary mandate is to protect our clients and property while bringing criminals to justice.
This approach allows Crime Watch SA to offer intelligent policing, enhanced detection, and fast response times in our primary suburbs, ensuring added security for our communities.
Who is monitoring the cameras?
The Crime Watch SA control room is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Currently, a team of three to four control room operators manage our alarm and CCTV monitoring systems under the guidance of a Control Room Manager. All operators are PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority) trained and fully comply with SAIDSA (South African Intruder Detection Security Agency) policies and procedures.
What is the Community CCTV project?
Crime Watch is committed to improving community safety by working with residents and street groups in a suburb and installing CCTV cameras. At the time of writing, we monitor 439 cameras. In areas with CCTV cameras, the crime rate is considerably lower compared to areas without cameras. We believe we can make a significant reduction in crime in streets where we are monitoring CCTV cameras. We can only install cameras on this offer, where new clients sign up to our services.
How do CCTV cameras benefit my community?
The cameras are connected to the Crime Watch SA control room, allowing us (as well as you and your CW client neighbours) to remotely monitor any suspicious activity and despatch Armed Response Officers to investigate. The presence of Armed Response often alerts the individual that they are being monitored which also acts as a crime deterrent.
Which camera will my street be receiving?
The cameras installed are either Hikvision Acusense cameras, Acusense Colorvu cameras, or the latest Hikvision Acusense Colorvu Gen 2 camera, which combines both technologies. Depending on the location, a different type of camera or lens may be needed. Crime Watch will determine the most suitable option.
Are CCTV cameras in public areas compliant with the POPI ACT?
At the time of writing, there is no restriction in the POPI Act on using CCTV cameras to capture information or events for security purposes. However, the use of images from CCTV cameras is subject to legislation that imposes certain conditions, including transparency; data protection; retention and disposal; and minimising personal intrusion. CCTV systems must comply with these conditions to ensure they are operating in accordance with the POPI Act.
What is CCTV/video analytics exactly?
Video analytics use algorithms to turn real-time video footage into intelligent data. Simply put, this data can identify people, vehicles, or objects and send alerts based on what it detects.
Alert lines can be set within the camera, typically including:
- Line crossing: When something crosses a predefined line in the camera’s view, such as a boundary wall or fence.
- Intrusion zones: When something enters a specific area set up in the camera, which could be outside your property or along the street.
These alerts can be customized by day, time, size, and other factors, just like your alarm system notifies you or your monitoring company if someone enters your property.
When an alert is triggered, the system sends a video clip showing what caused the alert. The controller (such as Crime Watch SA’s monitoring team) can then decide if it’s a real threat and take action, like despatching armed response or contacting you. This system means the controller doesn’t have to monitor the cameras 24/7 – the cameras do the work. This method is 95-97% more effective and accurate than having a person monitor the cameras and is also more cost-effective. This type of monitoring is often called Black Screen Monitoring.
Is the Crime Watch SA CCTV control room manned 24 hours a day?
Yes, controllers’ man the CCTV network 24 hours a day. When alerts are sent through, they review the alert and determine what action is required.
Can the Crime Watch control room see the cameras even if no alerts are sent through?
Yes, controllers will regularly review each camera on the network through CCTV patrolling. Note: This assumes the camera is functioning properly, has power, is connected to the internet, and Crime Watch SA are receiving signals.
Does Crime Watch SA despatch the Armed Response Officers if something suspicious is seen on the camera by the Controllers?
Yes, if something suspicious is seen on the camera by the controllers, Crime Watch SA will dispatch Armed Response Officers. We have been monitoring cameras successfully for many years and have a proven track record with our systems.
Will I be able to view the CCTV camera?
Yes, you will be able to view the CCTV camera by downloading a free app that allows live viewing. Additionally, you will need to sign a non-disclosure agreement and complete a Service Level Agreement (SLA).
Where will the camera be located – on public or private property?
All CCTV cameras of this type must be installed on private property. This is because it may take 18 months to 2 years to obtain planning permission for installing cameras on City of Cape Town (COCT) property.
Where will the camera be located on the street?
Crime Watch SA, in collaboration with the signed-up members, will determine the best location for the camera. The location will be chosen to provide the best security coverage for the street and must be on a property with a willing owner. If there is a dispute, Crime Watch SA will make the final decision based on security needs.
If my property provides the ideal location, what is required of me?
The resident or homeowner who has been identified as having the most suitable property and has agreed to host the camera will need to provide an adequate power supply and internet connection. These requirements are discussed in the questions below.
What power supply is required?
Access to a power supply is required, but cameras use very little power—about the same as a 15-watt light bulb per camera. We will identify a suitable location with the homeowner's approval. In the event of loadshedding, a home with a UPS/inverter or solar power would be ideal as backup.
What internet connection is required?
Internet access must be at least 30 Mbps, uncapped and unshaped. This will allow the signal to reach the Crime Watch SA control room and enable you and authorised individuals to view the camera remotely.
Will my internet be compromised with Crime Watch SA and my neighbours being able to access the camera through my internet?
No, only Crime Watch SA has access to the cameras via your internet. The camera signal will then be sent via your internet to Crime Watch SA. From Crime Watch SA we redistribute the signal to all authorised users that are approved to monitor the camera via the Hik connect Application.
Will Crime Watch SA have to change my Wi-Fi router?
Crime Watch SA may need you to change your Wi-Fi router on the rare occasion that your router is not compatible. We use Mikrotik routers and firewalls.
Where is the camera most likely to be put on my property?
The camera will be installed either on the wall of your property if it offers the best security view of the street or, more likely, on a galvanized pole. The pole may be attached to your boundary wall or secured in concrete next to it.
How does the camera get power and transfer signals to my internet router?
The Cat 6 cable provides both power and CCTV signals from the camera to your router. It will be professionally installed in conduit or bosal piping in locations agreed upon with the homeowner.
How many people can see the camera at the same time?
Up to 20 people can stream the camera simultaneously, if there are no internet issues, and all devices have active data.
Does CCTV act as a deterrent?
In today’s security environment, multiple layers of protection are essential, as no single measure is enough on its own. CCTV serves as a strong deterrent, especially when criminals know it is actively monitored. While some may cover their faces to avoid identification, the footage can still help link them to a crime. In monitored setups, advanced analytics detect movement across the camera’s view. If any activity appears suspicious, our control room is alerted and can despatch Armed Reaction Officers to respond.
Does Crime Watch record their CCTV cameras?
Yes, we do, and we retain the data for approximately 21 days.
Can I access the CCTV video recordings?
No, we cannot provide direct access to CCTV recordings. We adhere to a strict code of conduct and only release footage to SAPS. If you need CCTV evidence, you must file a criminal case with SAPS. Once you receive a case number, SAPS will request the footage from Crime Watch SA, and we will provide it to them accordingly. This is standard practice, and we follow this process regularly with them.
Will Crime Watch SA provide court testimony if required regarding CCTV evidence supplied to SAPS for my case?
The client must open a case with SAPS and obtain the case number that must be supplied to Crime Watch SA. If this process is completed then yes, Crime Watch SA will confirm the source of the CCTV footage in court and explain how it was stored and provided to SAPS. If an Armed Response Officer was despatched and involved in the incident, they will also testify in relation to your case.
We have found that on several occasions when the owner received their stolen goods back, that cases against the suspect are not being opened. Crime Watch SA has spent a lot of time, money and energy, with its manpower and resources to detail the criminal/ recover your possessions. If no case is opened then Crime Watch and other agencies will probably be chasing the same criminal later the same day and forever more, who may commit many more crimes. Whilst we cannot insist that a case is opened, we hope that the victim, understands that by not doing so, an opportunity to remove a criminal from the street has been missed and there will be more victims.
NB. Crimes are committed by only a few generally who specialise in that type of crime, unless opportunistic – therefore getting one serving a sentence, is likely to reduce crime considerably.
Can I get CCTV video footage in relation to a non-security issue?
No, the CCTV cameras are solely for enhancing security in the suburb. Crime Watch SA will only release footage to SAPS as outlined, and only after a case number has been provided.
I do not want parts of my property to be visible by the CCTV camera. Can the view be restricted?
As part of our policy, once a camera is installed, we send the homeowner an image of their property. The image may show part of the resident's property covered by the camera, and we request approval to ensure this is acceptable. We electronically mask out windows, swimming pools, and any other areas the resident prefers not to be included. The control room cannot remove the masking or see masked areas. Once you approve the areas covered, the control room will be able to monitor the camera.
What happens if the number of Crime Watch SA clients in the street falls below 5?
A minimum of five (5) new clients are required on the street to maintain each camera and CCTV monitoring service. If this number is not met, Crime Watch SA may relocate the camera to our CCTV network within the suburb. The new location will probably be based on where crime is occurring most.
Who owns the cameras?
Crime Watch SA will retain ownership of the cameras and equipment.
Who maintains the cameras once they are up?
Crime Watch SA will maintain the camera for a period of 2 years from the date of installation. After that, a maintenance charge will be agreed and added to the residents in the street. Maintenance does not include replacement of equipment valued at over R500. This would be chargeable to clients. Cameras averagely last 4 to 5 years except when located near the ocean or strong prevailing wind off the ocean.
Do Infra-Red cameras attract spiders, are analytics affected by spider web, who will be cleaning the cameras?
This is indeed true, especially considering the prevailing wind direction. During the maintenance period, Crime Watch SA will be responsible for maintaining the camera and the homeowner will be responsible for cleaning the camera, and we will give advice on.
If I am the homeowner where the camera is installed and I cancel my service with Crime Watch SA after the first year, will I lose access to view the camera?
No, as the homeowner, you will always have access to the camera on your property. However, your new service provider will not have access.
If I sell my property what happens?
Based on experience, having a monitored camera on your property can be an advantage when selling. The homeowner should make the benefits clear to the buyer. The buyer will need to agree to the same terms, and if they choose not to keep the camera, the residents and Crime Watch SA clients will need to find an alternative location for it.
If the new owner does not want to sign up with Crime Watch SA, what happens?
The homeowner will be able to see the CCTV live footage on their cell phone, but their security provider will not be able to.
Can the cameras be accessed by someone unauthorised to do so?
It's important to be cautious about who has access to passwords. To access a camera, a person would need physical access to your internet, the camera's IP address, the user passwords, and the camera network software.
Can other Crime Watch clients in the street access the camera.
If the 5 new clients all agree that access can be given to other Crime Watch client(s) in the street and they sign the same non-disclosure agreement, then access will be granted.
I have cameras at my house can it be linked to the Crime Watch SA control room?
Yes, it may be possible, but would be subject to a technical review of your cameras and their capabilities, as there are so many variables. Each situation is different, and we will discuss yours with you, following the review. Please write to info@crimewatchsa.com.
If my phone is stolen – what happens?
Your phone and the app are password protected, and your phone can be blocked from the system. If your phone is stolen, Crime Watch SA must be informed immediately in writing.
If the camera is stolen from my property – what happens?
The camera’s security is a key consideration when choosing its location. It will be installed in a way that makes it difficult to remove. While Crime Watch SA has not had a camera stolen, it is advisable to add the camera to the homeowner's insurance policy for a small fee. If the camera gets stolen and wasn’t insured the road will be liable for the replacement cost. Furthermore, having a monitored camera may help reduce the insurance premium.
If I or the community want to add more cameras than the Community CCTV Street Offer allows, can we?
In principle, yes. However, there will be some costs involved, which Crime Watch SA will discuss with you.
I can’t see the live camera images from my phone – why?
The most likely cause is either a power failure, load shedding, or an internet outage at the camera's location. Additionally, your phone must have data to access the camera. If there is still any issue, please contact Crime Watch SA.
How much data will a camera use on my phone?
It’s difficult to give a specific answer, as it varies for everyone. It depends on how often you access the camera away from your home internet and whether you’re using your own phone data.
What brand of camera does Crime Watch SA use?
We use Hikvision cameras. Hikvision is the world's leading video surveillance brand. Their products are highly reliable and come with a one-year warranty. Please note that cameras are constantly evolving, and we will update the range we use as new developments are released.
How long is my contract with Crime Watch SA?
Clients who subscribe to the CCTV Street Project are subject to a one-year contract with Crime Watch SA. After the first year, the contract will convert to a month-to-month basis.
How many vehicles do you have?
At the time of writing, we cover an area within 6 kilometres of our base and have 7 vehicles permanently patrolling the suburbs, ensuring we are always close to a potential activation. With this offer, our goal is to sign up more clients to justify the addition of a permanent vehicle in Milnerton Central.
To switch over to Crime Watch SA – does my alarm system have to be changed?
No, it does not need to be changed generally. We can integrate the majority of alarm systems as they are. Your passwords and user details can remain the same (if you prefer). Please contact our sales team, and they will be happy to assist you.
When will Crime Watch SA increase their prices?
Crime Watch SA’s annual price review takes place on the 1st of March each year.
If the right number of people sign up in my street, when would Crime Watch SA install the camera?
Crime Watch SA will be able to install the camera between the 2nd and 3rd monthly service fee being paid by all 5 new clients. This is subject to stock availability.
If I have a CCTV camera on my property or in my street, are there CCTV signboards available?
Yes, CCTV signboards are available and are branded by Crime Watch SA to indicate that the cameras are being monitored.
Our Services
At Crime Watch SA, we offer a comprehensive range of professional security services tailored to meet the unique needs of our communities. Our core offerings include Armed Response, Guarding Services, and expert Alarm and CCTV Installation & Monitoring. We are committed to keeping your home, business, and neighbourhood safe.
Join The Milnerton Central Camera Project
Help us make Milnerton safer—one camera at a time. By joining the Milnerton Central Camera Project, you contribute to a powerful, community-driven surveillance network that deters crime, supports law enforcement, and protects our neighborhoods. Together, we can keep an eye on what matters most.