A camera can show a live picture even when the recorder is not keeping the footage. Sentinel5 provides CCTV maintenance, fault finding and repair advice for homes and businesses, including systems fitted by another installer. We begin by checking the actual fault, available access and equipment condition.
Existing system inspection
We identify the cameras, recorder, storage, network equipment and power supplies. Tell us what changed, when the problem started and whether it affects one camera or the whole system. An initial inspection helps distinguish repairable faults from equipment that is no longer supportable.
Camera faults and alignment
Offline views, intermittent images and poor night footage can have different causes. We inspect accessible connections, power, lenses and housings, then check the network or video path. Camera alignment is reviewed against the intended view: a good-quality image of the wrong place is still a coverage gap.
NVR and DVR faults
We check recorder status, connected channels, time settings, recording schedules and supported camera configuration. Replacing a recorder is not always the first step. Existing analogue DVR systems may remain serviceable, while an IP migration may be more practical for unsupported or expanding installations. Compatibility needs to be checked before any equipment is ordered.
Hard-drive health and recording verification
A disk showing as present is not proof of reliable recording. We review available health and error information and test playback from different cameras and times. We also check whether the oldest recording matches the intended retention. Drive replacement can affect stored footage, so the handling of any required recordings must be agreed first.
Remote access problems
A broadband replacement, new router, changed account or app update can interrupt viewing even when local recording still works. We trace the connection from the cameras and recorder through to the authorised viewing device. Support should restore a secure arrangement rather than simply opening network access broadly.
Firmware updates
Updates need to match the exact device and supported upgrade path. We review the current version, manufacturer support and configuration before planning a change. Where appropriate, configuration is backed up and an outage window agreed. Older unsupported equipment may need a replacement plan rather than repeated attempts to update it.
Password and access management
Shared or forgotten logins make a system harder to manage. We help review authorised users, permissions and available recovery processes. Password recovery requires the owner's authority and may depend on the manufacturer or original account holder. Credentials should be handed over through an agreed secure method.
CCTV system takeover
If your previous installer is unavailable, we can inspect the installation and advise on a supported way forward. Helpful information includes camera and recorder models, existing documentation and authorised administrator access. A takeover does not automatically make old equipment compatible or restore lost footage. Any exclusions or replacement needs are set out before ongoing support is agreed.
Planned maintenance and contracts
Planned CCTV servicing can help keep camera views, recording, storage and access under review. Visit frequency depends on the site, equipment exposure and business needs. We can discuss the options below; visits, response arrangements, parts and remote checks are agreed in the written scope. Contact us for maintenance pricing.
A Sudden Fault or a Planned Improvement?
For a camera offline, recording gap or app failure, use CCTV repair and fault finding. For added cameras, improved night views or a recorder replacement, explore CCTV upgrades and takeover. Our troubleshooting guides offer checks you can make before arranging a visit.