How long do security cameras keep footage before it is deleted? That’s a common question we hear from homeowners, renters, and business owners alike. Whether you’re securing a single entry point or overseeing an entire commercial facility, understanding how long your security footage is stored can influence your decisions about storage, privacy, upgrades, and even legal compliance.
At Cam Security Surveillance LLC, we’ve helped hundreds of clients make smart decisions about footage retention, storage types, and compliance regulations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
How Security Cameras Store Footage
Before you can figure out how long footage lasts, you need to understand where and how it’s stored. Two primary options dominate the industry: local storage and cloud-based storage.
Local Storage
This method saves footage on-site using DVRs/NVRs, SD cards, or hard drives. Once the storage is full, the system will automatically overwrite the oldest recordings unless set otherwise. Local storage is cost-effective but comes with space limitations.
Cloud Storage
Cloud systems store your recordings on remote servers. Most cloud providers offer packages that retain footage for 7 to 60 days, sometimes even longer if you choose an extended plan. Cloud storage is ideal for off-site backup and remote access but may incur monthly costs.
Motion vs. Continuous Recording
How your system records plays a big role in footage retention.
- Motion-activated recording only saves clips when movement is detected. This conserves space and extends how long footage is stored.
- Continuous recording captures 24/7 footage, filling storage faster and leading to earlier deletions unless storage is upgraded.
Cam Security Surveillance LLC always recommends assessing your property’s activity level to determine the right recording method.
Key Factors That Influence Deletion Time
1. Storage Capacity
The more storage space you have, the longer you can retain footage. Basic DVRs may store video for 7 to 30 days, while advanced systems with terabytes of space can hold footage for 90+ days.
2. Camera Resolution
4K and high-definition cameras produce crystal-clear video but also generate larger file sizes, meaning storage fills up faster. This reduces the amount of time footage is retained unless storage capacity is increased.
3. Recording Frequency
Constant recording consumes more space than motion-based systems, shortening the time before footage is deleted.
4. Legal or Industry-Specific Requirements
Certain businesses are legally required to keep footage for a specific period:
- Retail & Banking: 30–90 days
- Healthcare Facilities: Up to 180 days
- Casinos & Gaming: 6–12 months
Cam Security Surveillance LLC helps commercial clients stay compliant with storage laws through custom-tailored surveillance setups.
Typical Retention Periods by System
| System Type | Average Footage Retention |
| Basic Home Camera | 7–14 Days |
| Mid-Range DVR/NVR System | 15–30 Days |
| Business-Grade System | 30–90 Days |
| Cloud Plans | 7, 14, 30, or 60+ Days |
If you’re unsure how long CCTV footage is stored in your setup, check your camera’s storage settings or speak with your provider.
Can You Extend Footage Retention?
Yes, you absolutely can. Here’s how to keep footage longer before deletion:
- Upgrade to larger hard drives or add external storage.
- Use motion-detection mode instead of continuous recording.
- Choose cloud plans with longer retention options.
- Reduce your video resolution to save space without sacrificing clarity.
Many clients at Cam Security Surveillance LLC opt for hybrid storage solutions—a combination of local and cloud storage for flexibility and reliability.
For Homeowners: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning a home security camera installation, the retention time should be part of your selection process. Most home systems store video between 7–30 days, but many smart systems offer alerts before deleting older clips.
Pro Tips:
- Pick a system that allows custom retention settings.
- Review footage regularly so you don’t miss anything important.
- Schedule backups of important clips.
Searching for professional security camera installation near me? Make sure your provider helps you configure the storage for your needs.
For Businesses: It’s About Storage & Compliance
In commercial environments, footage retention isn’t just optional it’s essential. Businesses like restaurants, retail stores, and warehouses rely on archived video for liability, theft prevention, and legal compliance.
That’s why Cam Security Surveillance LLC works closely with businesses to create storage plans that align with both industry requirements and local laws.
If you’re researching professional security camera installation near me, don’t stop at equipment specs and ask about footage retention, backup options, and compliance support.
Protect Your Security Investment with Smart Storage
Even the most advanced camera is useless if the footage is deleted before you need it. That’s why every Home Security Camera Installation should come with a solid storage strategy.
Best Practices:
- Use encrypted cloud backups for sensitive footage.
- Set low storage alerts to avoid accidental loss.
- Choose providers like Cam Security Surveillance LLC that build scalable systems for long-term retention.
If you’re searching for professional security camera installation near me, make sure your installer offers expert advice on storage and retention settings.
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Final Thoughts
So, how long do security cameras keep footage before it is deleted? The answer varies depending on your storage type, camera settings, and specific needs. Home systems may only need 14 days, while businesses might need 6 months or more.
At Cam Security Surveillance LLC, we do more than install; we design full-scale systems tailored to your space, storage requirements, and legal responsibilities. From compact home setups to large commercial installations, we ensure your security footage is both secure and available when you need it most.
Need expert help choosing the right storage option or upgrading your existing system? Contact us today for personalized support.
FAQs
Can I choose how long my camera keeps footage?
Yes, most modern systems let you set custom retention times based on available storage.
Do cameras automatically delete old footage?
Yes, unless you’ve disabled it, most systems will overwrite the oldest recordings once storage is full.
Is it legal to store security footage indefinitely?
It depends on local laws. Some regions limit how long you can retain footage—especially in public spaces or workplaces.