Frequently Asked Questions

Helping You Get the Most from Your Centrad Camera System

Product Features & Capabilities

What is the warranty on your products?

We provide a up to 5-years hardware warranty on all our products, ensuring long-term reliability. Additionally, we offer lifetime technical support, giving you complete peace of mind – if anything goes wrong, Centrad is always here to help put things right.

Do your cameras include audio?

We offer a wide range of cameras with optional audio recording, typically this is suitable for internal mounting.

Our systems are fully customisable, allowing you to enable or disable audio recording on a per-camera basis.

Get in touch with our team to discuss the best solution for your needs.

When the vehicle is turned off, will it still record?

Like many aspects of our system, this feature is fully adjustable to suit your needs. By default, our cameras are set to continue recording for 30 minutes after the ignition is switched off, ensuring any post-journey incidents are captured.

If required, this duration can be extended or reduced at a click of a button. However, for some vehicles, if you are looking to extend recording for a longer period of time (such as 24 hours) additional power solutions may be needed to prevent battery drainage.

Our team can help tailor the setup to your specific requirements – contact us to discuss the best option for your fleet.

What does a panic button do?

A panic button is a small, discreet button typically mounted near the driver for quick access.

When pressed, it:

Creates an event on the recording unit, marking the footage for easy identification.
Triggers an alert when integrated with our Live services, instantly notifying the back-office team of an incident.
Helps streamline footage review, ensuring critical events are easy to locate in historical recordings.

Will fitting your cameras reduce my insurance premiums?

With our vehicle camera systems, you have an accurate eyewitness for every journey. This high-quality video evidence is invaluable in defending claims, helping to:

Reduce claim costs by proving what really happened.
Protect against fraudulent or exaggerated claims.
Achieve better renewal rates by demonstrating a lower risk profile to insurers.

Many insurers now offer premium reductions for fleets with camera systems, so it’s worth discussing this with your broker. Over time, the cost savings on claims and renewals can make a significant financial difference.

Access & Footage

How long does the video footage get stored for before it begins to overwrite?

This depends on several factors, including:

Number of cameras – More cameras require more storage.
Camera resolution – Each camera’s quality level is fully customisable, allowing you to adjust resolution settings based on your needs.
Ignition duration – Cameras record continuously while the ignition is on. A vehicle running for 10 hours a day will store less historical footage than one running for 5 hours a day.

Our most popular option provides a minimum of one month’s footage, though some customers require over three months of storage. Additionally, important event footage can be stored remotely in the cloud for added security and accessibility.

We offer a range of memory options to meet your specific needs – contact our sales team and we’ll tailor a solution for your fleet.

Can I view video footage on my mobile phone or tablet?

If you choose one of our Live packages with 4G connectivity, you gain:

Real time camera access while the vehicle’s ignition is on.
Remote access to recorded footage via the data network, eliminating the need to manually retrieve footage when the vehicle returns to the depot.

This feature is becoming increasingly popular due to its convenience and efficiency.

Another key benefit is remote system health checks, allowing you to:

Ensure all cameras are functioning correctly at all times.
Detect and resolve issues proactively, minimizing downtime.

We provide both a desktop and mobile app for seamless access and also API integration. Contact our team for a demo and see how our software can enhance your fleet management.

How much do your systems cost?

Our quotations are tailored to suit each customers exact requirements. As a ball park the hardware cost of a 3 camera recording system is around £600 plus fitment and VAT. Please contact our sales team to discuss your particular requirements and they will construct a cost effective solution for you.

How much does Centrad Live cost?

Our standard monthly cost is £12.80 per vehicle which includes the SIM cost. We can offer a bespoke solution for larger data allowance, roaming and EU SIM packages.

Compatibility & Upgrades

I have purchased a vehicle which already has cameras fitted. Is your system compatible?

Integration with existing cameras is generally possible and can help reduce installation time. However, we strongly recommend assessing the age and condition of any pre-installed cameras.

Over time, cameras – especially externally mounted units—can deteriorate, affecting their reliability. This is particularly true for older systems, where image quality and durability may have declined.

As a result, integrating older or potentially unreliable cameras may not always be the most cost-effective solution. Our team can help assess your current setup and recommend the best approach to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Can we upgrade to Centrad Live at a later date?

Upgrading to 4G-enabled hardware may be possible, depending on the product model and available ports.

However, for the best experience and to avoid compatibility issues, we strongly recommend ordering 4G-enabled hardware upfront if you plan to use our Live camera access features.

Our team can assess your existing setup and advise on upgrade options and costs. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

Connectivity & Tracking

Can I still view the cameras when my vehicles go outside of the UK?

This will depend on which SIM cards are fitted within the DVRs. As standard our UK SIMs will not be suitable for use outside of the UK but our experts are on hand to discuss the different SIM packages that we offer to suit your needs.

Do you offer tracking?

Yes, all our camera systems come with built-in GPS recording as standard, providing both real-time and historical location tracking.

For those requiring advanced telematics features, we also offer solutions that include:

Driver behavior monitoring
Remote tachograph downloads
Additional vehicle performance insights

If you need a more comprehensive telematics package, contact our sales team, and we’ll help tailor the right solution for your fleet.

System Health & Maintenance

How can I prevent hard drive failure?

High quality hardware is selected to ensure reliability. We can set up mirror recording which involves having an SD card fitted alongside the hard drive to act as a back up format of recording in the unlikely event that the hard drive is to fail.

Customers with Centrad Live will benefit from automatic alerts of hard disk issues enabling for proactive maintenance rather than reactive.

Can I have system health check alerts automatically sent to me?

Yes these can be on demand on the dashboard and/or periodically emailed to you on a scheduled basis in a report format.

Compliance & Legal

Is it illegal for me to have a driver facing cameras?

This is a very common questions that we at Centrad get asked. Thanks to our unique background of having ran a fleet our MD put together a Blog outlining our advice on this subject: /best-practice-for-installing-driver-facing-cameras/

I need to get my vehicles compliant for FORS/DVS-can you help?

Yes we would love to help! Our experts are on hand to discuss your exact requirements to achieve compliance for FORS and DVS (now the PSS scheme). We can look to work with what kit you already have fitted in order to reduce costs and vehicle downtime during installation.

Product Compatibility & Customisation

Are your systems compatible with electric or hybrid vehicles?

Yes, our camera systems are fully compatible with electric and hybrid vehicles. We can tailor installation to suit your specific vehicle type.

Can your cameras be fitted to specialist vehicles like recovery trucks, refuse lorries, or minibuses?

Absolutely. We work with a wide range of vehicle types and offer customised solutions to meet the unique needs of each operation.

Do your systems integrate with other fleet management platforms or telematics providers?

Yes, our systems are compatible with many leading telematics platforms. Let us know what you use and we’ll confirm integration options.

Installation & Setup

How long does installation take per vehicle?

Typically, installations take on average around 1.5 hours per camera, per vehicle, depending on the system and vehicle type. This can vary depending upon the make / model of vehicle and the camera locations.

Do you offer nationwide installation?

Yes, we have a UK-wide network of experienced engineers who can install our systems on-site at your location.

Can we install the systems ourselves or use our own engineers?

Yes, we offer installation training and detailed guides if you prefer to use your own engineers.

Will installation disrupt vehicle operations?

We aim to keep disruption to a minimum and can schedule installations around your fleet availability, including evenings and weekends if needed.

Training & Support

Do you provide training for our team on how to use the system?

Yes, we provide full training — either remotely or on-site — to ensure your team knows how to get the most from your system.

What support do you offer after installation?

You’ll have access to our UK-based support team via phone and email, along with online resources and videos to help troubleshoot common issues.

Is technical support available 24/7?

Our standard support hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. Out of hours support is available for urgent issues with Centrad Live.

What is the typical response time for support queries?

We aim to respond to all support requests within 1 working day, with priority given to urgent system or safety-related issues.

Software & Updates

How often is the software updated?

We release regular updates to improve performance, security, and functionality. Updates are rolled out automatically via the cloud.

Are updates included in the price or is there an additional charge?

Yes, all software updates are included – there are no hidden charges.

Can I manage multiple depots or sites through one platform?

Yes, our platform allows you to manage multiple locations and users with different access permissions and reporting views

Data & Security

Is the system GDPR compliant?

Yes, all of our systems are fully GDPR compliant. You maintain full control of the data collected and who has access to it.

Where is the video footage stored, and who has access to it?

Footage is stored securely either onboard the vehicle or on the cloud (for Centrad Live users). Access is restricted to authorised users only.

Can I restrict access to certain cameras or features for individual users?

Yes, you can set different access levels for different users across your team, ensuring data is protected and roles are clearly defined.

Live Viewing & Alerts

How does live viewing work?

With Centrad Live, you can access real-time video from your fleet via desktop or mobile app – ideal for monitoring incidents or checking in on driver behaviour.

Can I receive alerts for incidents like speeding, harsh braking, or driver distraction?

Yes, you can configure alerts for a wide range of driving events including speeding, harsh braking, distraction, and more.

Can the system notify me if a camera or hard drive fails?

Yes, Centrad Live can send you automatic health check alerts if a camera, hard drive, or other critical component goes offline.

Finance & Procurement

Do you offer leasing or finance options?

Yes, we offer flexible leasing and finance packages to suit your budget and help spread the cost of your investment.

Can I trial the system before committing to a full rollout?

Yes, we can arrange a pilot installation so you can evaluate the system on a small number of vehicles before committing fleet-wide.

Compliance & Accreditations

Are your systems FORS, DVS, or CLOCS compliant?

Yes, we offer full compliance kits to meet FORS, DVS and CLOCS standards, including sensors, audible alarms, and signage.

Can your system help with insurance claim evidence?

Absolutely. Our high-definition footage and telematics data are frequently used to support and speed up insurance claims, often helping to prove fault and reduce liability.

Trusted by Fleets Across the UK.

“Within a matter of months we were able to prove a claim we had received from a 3rd party was fraudulent – the value of which was £15,000.”

“Centrad CCTV is a no brainer for every operator. It’s fantastic value and has repaid our investment several times over. We would be lost without it.”

“The GPS tracking function that is included as standard now on Centrad systems is invaluable. I wasn’t sure we would benefit at first as we have telematics installed on our trucks already, but being able to view the footage in sync with a map showing the location and speed of the truck has been extremely useful.”

“I visited Centrad’s HQ to have a chat with the team and see the products in action before making a final decision. It was well worth doing and I received some excellent advice. I’m really pleased with the end product and it has already repaid our investment within six months.”

In the event of an accident CCTV provides you with an accurate eye witness. Centrad’s CCTV solution has helped a number of our clients reduce their exposure to fraudulent accident claims and has ultimately improved their overall claims experience.

“Allan’s Coaches highly recommend Centrad CCTV. Fantastic product and good value which can also help reduce large fleet insurance costs! Fast delivery too. Claire has been so helpful throughout and is very knowledgeable on the product.”

Trusted by 30,000+ Fleets Worldwide