Are you thinking about installing a CCTV system at your business? Make sure you get licensed professionals to do it!
The provision of security services without a valid license is strictly prohibited under federal and WA Law, an unlicensed installer may end up costing you more.
What is a security installer license?
A security installer license is issued by the WA Police Licensing Services and allows the holder to install, maintain and repair security equipment controlled by the WA Surveillance Act.
There are four classes of security installer licenses. CCTV security installation belongs to ‘Class 2,’ as does security alarms. Persons who install, maintain or repair security equipment in a vehicle, vessel, aircraft or other means of transportation are excluded from this class.
Licenses are issued for one or three years and renewed every three years, so make sure your installer has a current license.
How do I tell who has a license? Why are licenses necessary?
Any business or individual providing security services must hold a valid security license. Since 1 January 2017 all new Class 2 security installer license applicants must complete a mandatory approved course in Technical Security prior to the submission of their license application.
Obtaining a valid license in security installation is a legal requirement in WA under the Security and Related Activities (Control) Act. Employing and/ or advertising the services of an unlicensed security installer is a serious offence. Failure to comply to the regulations may result in a penalty of a fine up to $10,000 in the case of an individual or $20,000 in the case of a corporate business.
Current licensed individuals are listed on the WA Police website.
Why should I use a licensed installer?
1. They have completed the required training
Licensed installers must meet minimum requirements to obtain their license. Evidence of attaining the mandatory Technical Security qualification is submitted along with the security installer application.
The Technical Security training company must be approved by the WA Police Licensing Services. The course trains and assesses applicants on their technical ability and knowledge of installing and maintaining CCTV systems. The compulsory technical training means you can be reassured of the physical and technical ability of licensed installers.
2. They are registered with the WA Police
Licensed installers are registered with the WA Police, so they are more reliable and trustworthy than unlicensed installers. Unregistered CCTV security installers may also put you at risk of burglaries due to poor installation or improper persons.
3. You won’t risk your insurance
There’s no need to sweat if you encounter any problems during or after the installation when you hire a licensed CCTV installer. Licensed CCTV installers are covered by insurance. In the case of a burglary, illegally installed security may invalidate your home and contents insurance.
4. Licensed installers must adhere to a Code of Conduct
Other legal requirements are in place so that licensed installers have a strong obligation to deliver quality service. All license holders have agreed to abide by the Security Industry Code of Conduct, which if breached may result in disciplinary action. WA Police identify two scenarios where a licensed installer is required, find out if this applicable to you here.
This Code of Conduct outlines minimum professional and ethical standards to ensure operators comply with Federal and WA legislation. These Minimum Standards aim to improve the safety of community and employees in addition to promoting consumer and community confidence.
Legal obligations aside, there are plenty of reasons why you should hire a licensed security installer. Avoid the risks associated with unprofessional and illegitimate security services by contacting Perth’s licensed security specialists for over 30 years.