How Do I See CCTV Footage?

By Jonathan Ratcliffe

If you are new to owning a CCTV system then you may be wondering how do you see CCTV footage. The specifics of seeing it will really depend upon your own specific CCTV system, but it is easy to do with almost all systems. Most CCTV systems these days constantly record their footage to either ... Read more


If you are new to owning a CCTV system then you may be wondering how do you see CCTV footage. The specifics of seeing it will really depend upon your own specific CCTV system, but it is easy to do with almost all systems.

Most CCTV systems these days constantly record their footage to either a hard drive or a cloud storage system. Either way, obtaining footage is usually just a case of accessing the system (which will almost certainly be password protected) and choose the footage that you want to see. For specific details of how to see the CCTV footage on your own home or business CCTV system, please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

How Do I See Public CCTV Footage?

If you wish to see CCTV footage of yourself that was recorded elsewhere, then you have the right to request to see it. The owner of the CCTV system has to provide this within 40 days and can charge up to £10 for the privilege. You need to tell them:

  • Date and time
  • Proof of your identity
  • A description of yourself

They are allowed to refuse a request but only if this would put a criminal investigation at risk.

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BY Jonathan Ratcliffe

Jonathan manages Marketing at CCTV.co.uk - with over 15 years experience in CCTV Installation - he writes as an Expert in CCTV Systems, News, Crime Rate Analysis and other FAQs

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