Frequently Asked Questions
What is CCTV monitoring, and how is it different from just recording?
CCTV monitoring means trained operators watch your cameras and act while something is happening, instead of you checking footage after a break-in. Monitored connects your cameras to our Smart-AI, which spots people entering set trigger zones and sends a video alert to our Cape Town operations centre. An operator checks it straight away and, if it’s a real threat, sends help.
Can you use my existing cameras and alarm system?
Yes, in most cases. Monitored connects securely to the CCTV system you already have, so there’s usually no need for new cameras. You’ll need a stable internet connection at the property. We can also monitor any alarm system, with an app to arm, disarm and send a panic alert. We don’t install cameras ourselves, but we can refer you to vetted installers in Cape Town.
What happens when someone is detected on my property?
Our Smart-AI sends a video alert to our operations centre, where a trained operator reviews it. Harmless activity, such as a resident walking the dog, is dismissed. If it’s a genuine threat, the operator can warn the intruder through on-site speakers, where fitted, and dispatches your security response company. Your key holders are notified, and the incident goes into your incident report.
How quickly do you respond?
Once an operator confirms a genuine threat, help is dispatched in under five minutes. Our AI analyses camera feeds in the cloud, so there can be a 45 to 90 second window between an event and an operator’s review. That short pause lets the system double-check what it sees, which cuts down on false alarms. Arrival times on site depend on your response company.
Will I receive incident reports?
Incident reports are sent after major incidents where armed response is dispatched or an audio intervention is used, giving you a record of what happened and how it was handled. You also receive a monthly report detailing all control room activity relating to your site.
How much does CCTV monitoring cost in Cape Town?
Monitored’s home package starts at R499 a month, excluding VAT, for two cameras. Your price depends on the number of cameras, 24/7 or night-only cover, and extras such as audio announcements or license plate recognition. It’s a fixed monthly amount on a 24-month contract, with no surprises. Call 087 820 3333 for a quote.
Can I choose night-only monitoring instead of 24/7?
Yes. Monitored offers 24/7 monitoring or night-only monitoring from 8pm to 6am. Round-the-clock cover suits homes that stand empty during the day. Night-only cover suits shops, offices and depots that are staffed during business hours. Both include real-time alerts, dispatching your response company and incident reports. Flexible timing is also available to those who require monitoring during specific times only.
Do you offer armed response, and do I still need it?
Monitored doesn’t provide armed response, and yes, you still need it. We specialise in monitoring and work with the armed response company you already use. When an operator confirms a genuine threat, we dispatch your response company and notify your key holders. If you don’t have a provider yet, you’ll need to sign up with one separately.
Does monitoring still work during load shedding or if my Wi-Fi goes down?
Our operations centre runs around the clock, but your cameras, recorder and router need power and internet to reach us. A battery backup or inverter keeps monitoring running through load shedding. We also run daily CCTV site checks and let you know straight away if a camera goes offline.
How do I get started, and which areas do you cover?
Call 087 820 3333 or email letstalk@monitored.co.za. We’ll look at your cameras, recommend the simplest plan, and connect your system, usually within days. Once live, our AI spends 14 days learning your property. We cover homes and businesses across Cape Town, including the Southern Suburbs, City Bowl, Camps Bay, Milnerton, Table View, Paarden Eiland and Stellenbosch.