FAQ Hub
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions across our security and vehicle technology services. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact our team on 01274 449 786.
Do you offer free site surveys for commercial CCTV?
Yes. Every commercial CCTV project begins with a free, no-obligation site survey so we can understand your premises, risk profile and operational requirements before recommending a system.
Can I view my commercial cameras remotely?
Absolutely. All of our commercial systems support secure remote viewing from mobile devices and desktops, with role-based access for multiple users across single or multi-site estates.
Do you install IP and HD-TVI systems?
Yes. We design and install both IP-based and HD-TVI CCTV systems, selecting the right technology for your building, existing cabling and budget.
Which areas do you cover for commercial CCTV?
We install throughout Bradford, Leeds, West Yorkshire, Manchester and across the UK. For larger multi-site and consultancy projects we also work nationally and internationally.
What is included in your residential CCTV packages?
Every package includes UNV 5MP ColorHunter cameras, a 4-channel 4K DVR, professional installation, remote viewing setup and a full 2-year warranty — all priced inclusive of VAT.
How far do you travel for residential installations?
We cover a 40-mile radius from Bradford (BD4 7NP). If you're just outside this area, contact us and we'll confirm whether we can accommodate your installation.
Can I see my cameras on my phone?
Yes. All systems are configured for remote viewing on iOS and Android, with secure login and live/recorded playback.
Do the cameras work at night?
Yes. Our UNV ColorHunter cameras use Smart Dual-Light technology for full-colour night vision and active deterrence, even in complete darkness.
Are you a Paxton approved installer?
Yes. We are a Paxton approved installer and specialise in the design, installation and maintenance of Paxton access control systems.
Can you network access control across multiple doors?
Yes. We design fully networkable access control systems covering a single door up to large multi-door, multi-site estates with centralised management.
Do you offer biometric access control?
Yes. We supply and install fingerprint and advanced biometric readers for high-security areas where card or fob access isn't sufficient.
Can access control integrate with CCTV and alarms?
Yes. We design integrated security solutions where access control events trigger camera recording and alarm responses for a coordinated security system.
What standards do your alarm systems meet?
All of our alarm systems are installed to meet EN50131-1 and PD6662 standards, ensuring compliance and reliable operation for insurance and police response.
Do you offer monitored alarms with police response?
Yes. We provide bells-only, speech dialer and fully monitored alarms with key-holder and police response through approved monitoring partners.
Can the alarm tolerate pets?
Yes. Our PIR detectors include a pet-tolerant facility so the system can be armed while pets are at home without false triggers.
Wired or wireless — which is right for me?
Wired systems suit new builds and larger properties; wireless systems minimise disruption in occupied homes. We'll advise on the best option during your free survey.
What does a security consultant do?
A security consultant provides independent technical advice on system specification, design, procurement, compliance and project delivery — without being tied to a single manufacturer.
Do you work outside the UK?
Yes. We provide consultancy nationally and internationally, including remote specification support, site surveys and project management for overseas partners.
Can you write tender documentation?
Yes. We prepare technical specifications, tender documentation and evaluation criteria to help organisations procure the right security systems with confidence.
Are you independent of any manufacturer?
Yes. We provide manufacturer-independent advice, evaluating products on their merits against your requirements rather than favouring a single brand.
Do you offer maintenance contracts?
Yes. We offer planned maintenance contracts covering CCTV, access control and intruder alarm systems, with priority response and scheduled service visits.
How quickly can you respond to a fault?
Contract customers receive priority response. We aim to attend emergency callouts on the same or next working day depending on location and cover level.
Can you maintain systems installed by another company?
Yes. We can take over the maintenance of existing systems following a survey, subject to compatibility and condition assessment.
What is Cloud CCTV?
Cloud CCTV stores footage securely off-site in the cloud rather than (or in addition to) a local recorder, providing remote access, redundancy and scalable retention.
Do I still need a recorder?
Not always. Cloud CCTV can run camera-to-cloud or use a hybrid setup with a local NVR for redundancy. We'll recommend the right architecture for your site.
Is cloud footage secure?
Yes. We use encrypted transmission and storage with role-based access control, keeping your footage protected and compliant.
When is wireless CCTV the right choice?
Wireless CCTV suits sites where cabling is impractical — remote buildings, temporary installations, listed properties or large perimeters where trenching isn't feasible.
Is wireless CCTV as reliable as wired?
Modern wireless links are highly reliable when correctly designed. We assess signal strength, interference and line-of-sight to ensure stable performance.
How far can wireless cameras transmit?
Depends on the technology. Point-to-point wireless links can span several kilometres; standard Wi-Fi cameras cover typical building ranges. We survey and specify accordingly.
Why does a security company handle networking?
Modern security systems run on your network. With a BSc (Hons) in Computer Communications, our founder brings genuine network engineering expertise to security infrastructure.
Can you design the network for a new build?
Yes. We design and specify secure network infrastructure for security, CCTV and access control as part of new-build and refurbishment projects.
Do you segment security networks?
Yes. We recommend VLAN segmentation to isolate security traffic, improving both performance and cyber security.
What vehicle security systems do you supply?
We supply and install fleet CCTV, taxi CCTV, HGV safety systems, DVS Progressive Safe Systems, vehicle tracking, dashcams and ghost immobilisers.
Can you help with DVS compliance?
Yes. We advise on and install DVS Progressive Safe Systems to help fleets meet London's Direct Vision Standard requirements.
Is taxi CCTV compliance covered?
Yes. We specify taxi CCTV systems that meet local authority licensing requirements, including encryption and retention rules.
Do you offer remote monitoring?
Yes. We integrate systems with approved monitoring partners for 24/7 remote monitoring, key-holder response and police alarm activation.
What's the difference between monitored and unmonitored?
Unmonitored systems alert you or sound a bell; monitored systems have a professional ARC (Alarm Receiving Centre) responding to events and contacting key-holders or police.
Do you design systems for tender submissions?
Yes. We produce technical designs and specifications suitable for inclusion in tender documentation, supporting contractors and end clients alike.
Can you specify equipment from multiple manufacturers?
Yes. As an independent consultancy we specify the best-fit equipment regardless of manufacturer, then support procurement.
Do you project manage installations?
Yes. We provide technical project management overseeing installation, commissioning, acceptance testing and final sign-off.
Can you act as the client's technical representative?
Yes. We act as an independent technical advisor representing the client's interests throughout the project lifecycle.
How do I report a fault?
Call 01274 449 786 or email sales@mcdsecurity.co.uk. Contract customers receive priority response.
Do you support systems you didn't install?
Yes, following a survey to confirm compatibility and condition. Contact us to arrange an assessment.
Still Have Questions?
Contact Our Team
Speak to one of our security consultants — call 01274 449 786 or send a message.