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Frequently asked questions
What does Advanced Overwatch do?
Advanced Overwatch is a uniquely placed service provider specialising in security and fire systems, CCTV, telecommunications and IT, so we can design one system that fits the premises.
Can you handle security, fire, telecoms and IT through one provider?
Yes. Chasing several installers and service providers is a nuisance. That is where we are uniquely placed to take over and provide everything through one point of contact, working to the same exacting standards across every area of our services.
Which sectors do you work in?
We work in any sector. Commercial, industrial or domestic, Advanced Overwatch will work out the right answer for the property.
How do I know the work will be completed to a high standard?
With Advanced Overwatch the work is completed to recognised standards by qualified engineers.
Do you only work in Northern Ireland?
No. While Advanced Overwatch mainly operates in the UK and Ireland, geographic location is not an obstacle for our services and we can work worldwide. In most instances work outside the UK or Ireland would be for business users, please contact us for further details.
How quickly can Advanced Overwatch respond to a service callout in Northern Ireland?
Most callouts are resolved within one working day. Our engineers operate and cover the whole of Northern Ireland, with regional contact numbers for Belfast, Derry / Londonderry, Magherafelt, and Omagh so you always reach a local number. Maintenance contract customers receive priority response with agreed service level targets. Out-of-hours emergency cover is available for monitored systems and contracted clients.
Do I need an SSAIB certificated installer for my alarm or CCTV system?
For domestic installations, SSAIB Certification is not a legal requirement, but it is what most home insurers expect for a monitored intruder alarm. For commercial premises, insurers and many tender processes specify that the installer must hold certification from SSAIB or an equivalent UKAS-accredited inspectorate. Advanced Overwatch is SSAIB certificated (NIRE127) specifically for Intruder Alarm Systems, Visual Surveillance Systems (VSS) and Access Control Systems. You can verify our certification on the SSAIB website.
What standards apply to security systems in Northern Ireland?
The main standards we work to are BS 5839-1 for commercial fire alarm systems, BS 8418 for detector-activated remotely monitored CCTV, BS 5266-1 for emergency lighting, and the relevant grade requirements (typically Grade 2 or Grade 3) for residential and commercial intruder alarms. CCTV systems must also comply with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. We design every installation to the standard appropriate for the site and the client’s insurance requirements.
How long does a typical installation take?
Most domestic CCTV or alarm installations are completed in one day. Larger residential systems with multiple cameras or zones may take two days. Commercial installations vary widely with the size of the premises and the integration required: a small office is often a one-day fit, while a multi-door access control rollout or a full BS 5839-1 fire alarm refit can take a week or more. We give a realistic timeframe in the written quote, before any work starts.
Will my security system work during a power cut?
Yes. Every alarm and fire alarm system we install includes a battery backup sized to maintain the system through a power outage. Wireless intruder alarm panels typically support 12 to 60 hours depending on grade and configuration. Wired CCTV systems can be backed up with a UPS or with PoE switches that have battery support, and we discuss this option with every commercial client. Cellular and dual-path signalling means monitored alarms still notify the alarm receiving centre even if your broadband and mains power are both lost.
Do you charge a monthly subscription?
No subscription is required for our standard CCTV systems. Footage is recorded onto an on-site NVR or DVR that you own outright, with no recurring storage fee. Monitored alarms and remotely monitored CCTV (BS 8418) do involve a monthly or quarterly monitoring fee from the alarm receiving centre. Cloud video options are available where the customer prefers them, but they are never the default.
How does Advanced Overwatch handle GDPR and CCTV footage?
Every CCTV installation includes correct signage, a documented retention period, and clear procedures for handling subject access requests. We also offer a CCTV video redaction service for clients who need to disclose footage to insurers, solicitors, or police while protecting the identity of third parties. The full responsibilities are explained in our CCTV Regulations in Northern Ireland guide, and our ISO 27001 certification covers how we handle the information associated with your system.
Can you maintain or take over a system another company installed?
In most cases, yes. We service systems from all major manufacturers including Hikvision, Dahua, Hanwha Vision, Ajax, Orisec, Texecom, Pyronix, Honeywell, Paxton, Assa Abloy, ACT, and Videx. We will carry out a takeover survey to confirm the system is safe, compliant, and in working condition before we sign off on a maintenance contract. Where a system is non-compliant or end-of-life, we will say so honestly and quote for the upgrade rather than carry inherited risk.
What warranty and support do you provide after installation?
Every new installation comes with a 12-month workmanship warranty. Hardware warranties depend on the manufacturer and are usually 2 to 5 years on cameras, alarm panels, and access controllers. We supply full handover documentation, an O&M manual, user training, and a maintenance schedule. Annual service visits are available on a contracted basis, and we recommend them for any commercial fire alarm, monitored intruder alarm, or BS 8418 CCTV system.
How do I get a quote or arrange a site survey?
Call 028 7087 8077, email info@advancedoverwatch.com, or use the quote form on our quote page. A surveyor will arrange a visit at a time that suits you. There is no obligation and no charge for a survey or quotation, and every quote is provided in writing before any work begins.
Still have questions?
A question about our services, help with a system, or a security matter you would rather discuss in confidence: we want to hear from you.