When it comes to installing security cameras, pricing isn’t just about the number of cameras it's about the complexity of the installation, the size of the property, and the level of security needed. A standard home and an estate home have vastly different requirements, so should they be priced the same? The short answer: No. Here’s why.
1. Estate Homes Require More Coverage
Estate homes often span multiple acres, with long driveways, guest houses, and outdoor spaces that need monitoring. Compared to a standard home, where 4-6 cameras might be enough, an estate may require 10, 20, or even more cameras to cover all entry points and perimeters.
How This Affects Pricing
More cameras mean higher equipment costs.
Larger properties require more wiring, mounts, and network setups.
The installation takes more time and labor, increasing overall costs.
2. Estate Homes Often Need Advanced Security Features
While a standard home might use Wi-Fi cameras or basic wired setups, estate homes demand more sophisticated systems, such as:
Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) Cameras – To monitor large outdoor spaces.
License Plate Recognition Cameras – For gated driveways.
Thermal Imaging Cameras – For nighttime security.
Smart Home Integration – Connecting cameras with lighting, alarms, and access control.
Why It Costs More
High-end cameras with AI detection, facial recognition, and 4K resolution are more expensive.
Estate security often requires custom solutions, like underground wiring or fiber optic connections.
Smart home integration adds programming and testing costs.
3. Labor and Installation Complexity Differ
Estate homes are not simple plug-and-play installations. Installers may need to:
Run cables hundreds of feet underground.
Mount cameras on poles, trees, or high points.
Set up long-range wireless networks for remote areas.
Work around custom architecture and high ceilings.
How This Affects Cost
More labor hours = higher installation fees.
Additional equipment like signal boosters, trenching tools, or lifts may be needed.
Weatherproofing and hiding wiring add extra steps and materials.
4. Security Risks and Liability Are Higher
Estate homes often house high-value assets, increasing security risks. Homeowners may want redundant power sources, encrypted data storage, and professional monitoring services.
Additional Cost Factors
Advanced cybersecurity for cloud-based surveillance.
Backup power systems in case of outages.
Long-term maintenance and support contracts to ensure reliability.
5. What’s the Right Pricing Model?
Instead of a flat-rate pricing model, security camera installers should use tiered pricing based on property size, equipment type, and complexity.
Example Pricing Model
🏠 Standard Home (1,500-3,000 sq. ft.)
4-6 Cameras
Basic Wi-Fi or wired setup
Standard labor 💰 Estimated Cost: $1,500 - $4,000
🏡 Estate Home (5,000+ sq. ft.)
10-20+ Cameras
Smart integration, long-range Wi-Fi, PTZ cameras
Advanced labor (trenching, pole mounting, custom cabling) 💰 Estimated Cost: $10,000+
Final Thoughts: One-Size Pricing Doesn’t Fit All
Estate homes and standard homes require different levels of security, equipment, and labor. Charging the same price for both doesn’t make sense. Instead, security camera installation should be customized based on property size, security needs, and installation complexity.
🔒 Ready to secure your home? Contact Monroe Integrated Solutions today for a custom security consultation!
📞 585-633-8895
