Security camera questions, answered honestly.
The same questions come up at almost every kitchen table we quote at — so here are the answers we give in person, written down. If yours isn’t here, call 604-621-9370 and ask.
The questions we hear most
How much does security camera installation cost?
Every system is designed for the property, so we quote rather than publish a price list. The quote is free and itemized — each camera, cable run and recorder on its own line — valid for 30 days, with no contracts and no monthly fees. Our guide explains what moves the number.
Are your camera systems wired or wireless?
Hardwired, always. Wired cameras get power and data from one cable: no batteries to change, no Wi-Fi dropouts, no missed events. It's the difference between a security system and a gadget.
Do I have to sign a contract or pay monthly fees?
No. Your footage records locally on your own recorder, you own the equipment outright, and viewing it on your phone costs nothing per month. No contracts, no subscriptions required.
What's the difference between 1080p, 2K, and 4K?
1080p tells you someone was there. 2K and 4K tell you who — faces at the door, plates on the driveway — because you can zoom into recorded footage without it dissolving into blocks. We recommend resolution per camera position, not one spec for the whole house.
Where should four cameras go on a typical home?
In order: the approach (whatever path someone must walk to reach your door), the driveway (close enough that a plate is readable), the side gate or dark elevation (the way in nobody photographs), and the door itself. Four is usually enough when placement is right.
Will the cameras see in the dark?
Yes. We install ColorVu cameras that hold full colour after dark instead of dropping to black-and-white infrared — the colour of a car, a jacket, a plate — exactly the detail that matters at 2 a.m.
Where does the footage go — do you use the cloud?
Footage records locally to a network video recorder (NVR) in your home or business. You choose how many days it retains. Nothing requires a cloud subscription, and remote viewing streams securely from your own recorder to your phone.
Can I check the cameras from my phone when I'm away?
Yes. We set up the mobile app on your devices before we leave: live view of every camera, playback, and motion alerts, from anywhere.
How long does installation take?
Most standard residential installs are completed in a single visit. Larger systems, acreages, and commercial sites are scheduled realistically and confirmed in the quote — we'd rather take the hours than rush the part you can't see.
What warranty and guarantees do you offer?
Every system is backed for a full year on parts and workmanship — hardware fault or install issue, we return and fix it. Pinnacle is licensed and insured, and we stand behind a satisfaction guarantee.
I rent, or I'm in a strata — can I still get cameras?
Usually yes, with permission. Renters need the property owner's okay for a wired install; strata owners should check their bylaws about exterior placements. We're happy to keep placements discreet and reversible where required.
Do security cameras actually deter break-ins?
Honestly: visible cameras deter opportunists, and recorded footage is what identifies the ones who try anyway. No camera makes a property burglar-proof — what a good system does is make yours a worse target than the next one and give police something to work with.
What about my neighbours' privacy? Is this legal in BC?
Cameras on your own property watching your own property are fine. We aim placements at your entries, driveway, and yard — never into a neighbour's windows — and for businesses we set systems up consistent with BC privacy law (PIPA), including reasonable signage where appropriate.
Which areas do you serve?
Thirteen cities across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley from our Abbotsford base: Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission, Langley, Surrey, Delta, Maple Ridge, Coquitlam, Burnaby, Richmond, Vancouver, North Vancouver, and White Rock.
Our Commitment:
The system works when we leave.
Every install carries a 1-year warranty and a satisfaction guarantee. If something isn't right, we come back and fix it. No charge, no argument.
We cover Abbotsford, Langley, Surrey, Burnaby, and the rest of the Lower Mainland. Call, message, or email us to receive a quote with no obligation.