CCTV installer invoice template

How do CCTV installers usually invoice?

CCTV installers quote a system price that bundles cameras, recorder and installation, take a deposit of around 40% when equipment is ordered and invoice the balance on commissioning with 14 day terms. Commercial installations are invoiced against a specification with each camera position listed, on 30 day terms, often with an annual maintenance agreement invoiced separately. Extra cameras and remote viewing setup are priced per item.

CCTV installers in this example give the customer 14 days to pay, after a 40% deposit taken before the work starts. Hourly rates run from £40 to £70. A full day is typically £300 to £480.

What should a CCTV installer put on an invoice?

Beyond the legal basics, CCTV installers should:

• List the camera count, resolution and recorder capacity on the invoice; it is the specification the customer bought.
• Invoice the deposit when equipment is ordered and reference it on the final invoice.
• Separate the maintenance agreement from the installation, with its own period and price.
• Include a line confirming the system was demonstrated and the customer has the login details.

Every UK invoice, whatever the trade, must also show:

• a unique, sequential invoice number
• your business name and address (and company number if you trade as a limited company)
• the client’s name and address
• the invoice date and, for VAT invoices, the date of supply if different
• a clear description of each item of work or goods
• the amount due and when it must be paid
• your VAT number, the VAT rate per line and the VAT total, if you are VAT registered

Do CCTV installers charge VAT?

You only charge VAT once registered, which is compulsory when taxable turnover passes £90,000 in any rolling 12 months. Below that, show no VAT line and no VAT number. Once registered, this work is standard rated at 20%.

On the Flat Rate Scheme the sector for CCTV installers is usually “Investigation or security” at 12% of VAT-inclusive turnover, with a 1% discount in the first year of registration. If you spend little on goods you may be a limited cost trader and have to use 16.5% instead. The scheme suits businesses with few VAT-able costs; check it against the standard method with the VAT calculator before joining.