Security Camera System Health Checklist

A repeatable audit for the complete evidence path: camera → network → recorder → storage → playback → backup power.

Important: a green live-view screen is not a health check. The highest-priority items below verify that footage is actually being recorded and remains usable when needed.

Recording & storage

Playback verified on every critical camera — high priorityOldest available recording matches the required retention window — high priorityNVR disk status / SMART / bad-sector checks are normal — high priorityA test clip can be exported and openedCamera and NVR timestamps are correct

Image & evidence quality

Daytime image is clear and correctly framedNight image has usable face/vehicle detail where required — high priorityLens/dome is free of haze, residue, webs and insectsNo new vegetation/signage/objects block critical evidence zones

Network & outdoor installation

PoE cameras show stable links with no recurring disconnects — high prioritySwitch PoE budget has adequate headroomOutdoor RJ45 weatherproof caps/seals are intactNo known packet-loss or switch-port error problem remains unresolved

Power & resilience

NVR, PoE switch and required network gear are on planned backup powerUPS self-test passes and battery warning is clear — high priorityMeasured/expected UPS runtime still meets the outage target — high priority

Firmware & configuration

Camera/NVR firmware versions have been reviewed against current vendor releasesCritical configuration/IP/recording settings are documented or backed upRemote access and administrator accounts have been reviewedRecent system changes have been followed by playback verification — high priority

Check completed maintenance items to calculate system health.

How to use the result

A high percentage is useful only if the high-priority evidence-path checks are complete. Any unchecked critical item should be investigated before cosmetic or convenience items.