It doesn't really matter in which state you are living when it comes to protecting yourself and your home against an unfortunate break-in. Around 3.7 million house burglaries happen in the US each year. You certainly don't want your house to join the statistics. This staggering number has compelled homeowners to pay close attention to house security.
Today, homes are becoming smarter. Smart locks, surveillance cameras, etc. are being installed to make the house burglary-proof. Even though it is highly recommended to install a security camera in your house, it is equally important to have an understanding of the various laws relating to the installation of the camera. In this article, we'll have a look at those regulations.
Home Security Cameras: A Brief Guide
1. The Placement of the Cameras
Can you install the camera anywhere in your house? Suppose you are planning to list your house on rent, are you supposed to be mindful of the privacy of your tenants? As it turns out, many states have detailed guidelines regarding the placement of the security camera. The law suggests that the camera can be installed at any place where the privacy of a person is not expected. For example, in bedrooms or bathrooms, users expect privacy. In these rooms, you cannot install the camera. On the other hand, there is nothing wrong with installing the camera in the living room or at the door.
2. The Scope of Audio Surveillance
Many security cameras feature audio recording. But does the law allow you to record a conversation? Many states allow people to record a conversation on one condition: that the people present in the conversation - and whose voice will be recorded - are informed that they are being recorded. Laws that relate to one-party consent allow you to record those conversations you are a part of. Generally, it is illegal to record the conversations you are not a part of without the consent of the parties involved.
3. Neighbor's Property
In today's innovative world, all products are being updated regularly. The latest security cameras come with a wider angle that covers a larger area. This means that sometimes your camera can capture the activities going on on your neighbor's property. If you are at the receiving end of a camera pointed at you, you cannot legally ask your neighbor to take the camera off. However, as a good neighbor, you can share your concerns with them. In case you don't get any respite, the only step you have is to plant shrubs or trees on your property to block the view of the camera.
4. Registration
In some areas, you are required to register your home security system with your local municipality. Often, the company installing the system is required to file for the initial registration while you are responsible for maintaining the registration.
Summary
Give the prevalent crime rate in our country, it is understandable why more homeowners are installing home security systems in their houses. However, before you go ahead with your investment, it is important to have a look at what the law says about these cameras.
Today, homes are becoming smarter. Smart locks, surveillance cameras, etc. are being installed to make the house burglary-proof. Even though it is highly recommended to install a security camera in your house, it is equally important to have an understanding of the various laws relating to the installation of the camera. In this article, we'll have a look at those regulations.
Home Security Cameras: A Brief Guide
1. The Placement of the Cameras
Can you install the camera anywhere in your house? Suppose you are planning to list your house on rent, are you supposed to be mindful of the privacy of your tenants? As it turns out, many states have detailed guidelines regarding the placement of the security camera. The law suggests that the camera can be installed at any place where the privacy of a person is not expected. For example, in bedrooms or bathrooms, users expect privacy. In these rooms, you cannot install the camera. On the other hand, there is nothing wrong with installing the camera in the living room or at the door.
2. The Scope of Audio Surveillance
Many security cameras feature audio recording. But does the law allow you to record a conversation? Many states allow people to record a conversation on one condition: that the people present in the conversation - and whose voice will be recorded - are informed that they are being recorded. Laws that relate to one-party consent allow you to record those conversations you are a part of. Generally, it is illegal to record the conversations you are not a part of without the consent of the parties involved.
3. Neighbor's Property
In today's innovative world, all products are being updated regularly. The latest security cameras come with a wider angle that covers a larger area. This means that sometimes your camera can capture the activities going on on your neighbor's property. If you are at the receiving end of a camera pointed at you, you cannot legally ask your neighbor to take the camera off. However, as a good neighbor, you can share your concerns with them. In case you don't get any respite, the only step you have is to plant shrubs or trees on your property to block the view of the camera.
4. Registration
In some areas, you are required to register your home security system with your local municipality. Often, the company installing the system is required to file for the initial registration while you are responsible for maintaining the registration.
Summary
Give the prevalent crime rate in our country, it is understandable why more homeowners are installing home security systems in their houses. However, before you go ahead with your investment, it is important to have a look at what the law says about these cameras.
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