Here Are the Best Places to Put Security Cameras Around Your Home

Security cameras are one the best ways to increase security around your house. They may deter people from breaking in, and allow you to check in on pets and kids when you’re not home. But if the cameras are only looking at the sky or a single painting—unless you have the Mona Lisa in your home—you’re essentially wasting money.

There are a few key areas that need security camera coverage, and thanks to the fact that cameras often swivel and adjust, you can make sure you maximize coverage in all the right areas of the home.

1. Ground-Level Exterior Doors and Windows

If there’s any place you should without a doubt put your security cameras, it’s exterior doors or windows. The majority of would-be burglars are looking for the easy route in and out of the house, so these areas are vulnerable. Keep in mind that the cost to install security cameras is around $150 to $200 per camera, so you might need to get creative with angles if you’re looking to save some money.

Want to make sure your partner or child made it home safely while you’re at work? Need to make sure you locked the front door but don’t have a smart lock? Beyond potential burglars, placing a security camera at exterior doors and windows can also help you keep an eye on your loved ones throughout the day. Bonus: You can also see when packages arrive at your door step.

2. Garage and Driveway

Your garage and driveway are high-traffic areas that can be tempting to potential criminals. They’re also common storage areas for valuable items like cars, bikes, and ATVs, so you likely want to keep an eye on them.

For best results, install a security camera right above the garage that captures as much of the driveway as possible, as well as some of the road. That way you can also see your vehicle in the event someone breaks into it. You may even want to put a security camera in the garage itself in the event that your current setup doesn’t allow you to see the garage door.

3. Front and Back Yard

Your yard may be another source of high-end items such as grills, outdoor TVs, or even just a beloved, vibrant lawn flamingo. Regardless of what’s out there, a security camera in the yard can help you keep an eye out for potential burglars.

Thievs don’t necessary belong to any one species though—bears, deer, and cats may also be on the prowl for something in your yard, like birdseed. If you have trash cans in your yard, make sure the cameras are lined up to view them, as this is a common temptation for critters. It’s best to get into contact with a home security company near you to see how you can maximize your coverage.

4. Main Hallway or Stairway

Inside the home, it’s best to keep the main hallway or stairway under surveillance. This area typically sees a lot of foot trafic, as it’s where everyone tends to kick off their shoes and call it a day. If someone gets in through another entry point, there’s a good chance they’re still going to travel through this area.

A camera here may even save lives if you see that someone tripped or stumbled on the stairs, allowing you the opportunity to call for help.

5. Common Living Areas

Ever wonder how that vase in your living room actually broke? Setting up interior cameras is a great way to check in on children, babysitters, and pets throughout the day or night when you’re away. These areas would include family rooms, living rooms, game rooms, kitchens, and sun rooms.

Specifically, you may want to set up the camera so it also faces any doors or windows in those rooms. While it may seem redundant to have one on the exterior and interior, you never know when you might forget to lock the door or window from the inside.

6. Upstairs Hallway or Loft

While not common, those looking for a five-fingered discount may use a ladder to enter through the second-story. You should place a security camera facing the hallway that has the majority of bedrooms and bathrooms in the frame. It may also be handy for figuring out who’s stomping throughout the home and causing a ruckus downstairs.

7. Basements

Basements are another area similar to the garage that often houses valuables. If your basement has any windows, a camera may be useful for catching any wrongdoers trying to crawl in or out. It’s also one of the hardest places to hear any commotion since it’s often underground, making it all that much more beneficial to add a surveillance camera. Mount these cameras from a high point, and aim them towards doors and windows. 

8. Detached Garage or Shed

Lastly, any detached garage or shed will benefit from either an interior or exterior camera. You may want to opt for battery powered cameras in these area unless you’ve already run power to these areas.

Like garage or basements, these areas usually have expensive tools and equipment that make them a prime target for thieves. And because they’re away from the house, these areas are more likely to get hit since it’s out of earshot and in the back of our minds. You can either mount a camera on your home’s exterior, facing the shed, or mount them inside the shed pointing toward the door.

Where to Not Place Security Cameras

While you mean well in protecting your property and loved ones, you still need to consider areas where you should not install security cameras. This includes any cameras that directly peer into your neighbors property, such as windows or pool areas. You may want to supervise your children, but avoid cameras in the bedrooms and bathrooms to ensure your household enjoys some privacy, too.