How Long Does CCTV Footage Stay on a DVR or NVR?

How long CCTV footage is stored on DVR and NVR systems — and how to extend your retention.

This guide was written by the professional engineers at Everest Aerials & Satellites, drawing on real-world installation experience across hundreds of properties in the UK. We cover TV aerial installation, satellite dish fitting, CCTV, Starlink, WiFi and smart home services nationwide.

For professional help with any of the issues covered in this article, call us free on 0800 046 7879 — same-day service available in most areas. No call-out fee — ever.

Related Service: CCTV Installation

A CCTV system is only as effective as its camera placement. Cameras positioned for ease of installation rather than coverage provide an incomplete picture and limited deterrent value. Our engineers assess your property first — identifying entry points, blind spots and the optimal camera positions — before selecting any equipment.

• Property security assessment and camera positioning plan
• Supply and installation of HD or 4K cameras (wired PoE or wireless)
• DVR or NVR recorder installation and storage configuration
• Hard drive sizing matched to your required footage retention period
• Remote viewing app setup and configuration on your smartphone or tablet
• Motion zone configuration to minimise false alerts
• Explanation of UK CCTV law and ICO guidance relevant to your installation

Learn more about our CCTV Installation service →

Qualifications & Accreditations

• CAI Approved Contractor — Confederation of Aerial Industries certified engineers
• Which? Trusted Trader — independently assessed and approved
• Checkatrade Verified Member — background-checked with monitored customer ratings
• NICEIC Approved — all electrical installation work completed to BS 7671 wiring regulations
• DBS Checked Engineers — every engineer is fully DBS-cleared before entering your home
• Up to 5-Year Workmanship Guarantee — one of the longest guarantees in the industry
• £5m Public Liability Insurance — fully insured on every domestic and commercial job
• Established 1998 — over 25 years trading as a reputable, family-run business

What Our Customers Say

Rated 4.8 out of 5 from over 1,200 verified reviews on Google, Trustpilot and Checkatrade.

★★★★★ David H.

"Fantastic service from start to finish. Engineer arrived on time, did a thorough job and left the place immaculate. Great signal now — very happy."

★★★★★ Sarah M.

"Called at 9am, engineer was with me by 1pm. Fixed my aerial fault quickly and explained exactly what had gone wrong. Excellent value and very professional."

★★★★★ Mike T.

"Had a new TV aerial and CCTV fitted in the same visit. Engineer was knowledgeable, tidy and very efficient. Already recommended to two neighbours."

Get Professional Help

Need a qualified engineer? Find your local Everest Aerials service area or call 0800 046 7879 for a free no-obligation quote. Same-day appointments available in most areas across England, Wales and Scotland.

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