Can Tenants Install a Security Camera On Your Rental?

Can tenants install a security camera on your rental or a camera that shows common areas in an apartment complex is the question this week for Ask Landlord Hank. Remember Hank is not an attorney and he is not offering legal advice. If you have a question for him please fill out the form below.

Dear Landlord Hank:

Can tenants install a doorbell camera on their rental? -Sam

Dear Sam:

I think a Ring doorbell camera is fine and good for safety and security for the tenants.

I think it is a very bad idea for tenants to set up cameras that would allow them to view other tenants’ properties, invading their privacy.

You’d have to check the laws in your jurisdiction but in most places, this would be in violation.

The idea is to increase your own safety, not be creepy, so make sure any camera is placed high enough so it is difficult to disturb the camera placement and angle. The height also widens the angle of coverage.

Make sure you have a weatherproof camera and that it is not hidden.

Criminals are less likely to visit you if they know they are being filmed in the act.

Also, before a tenant installs a camera, he or she should talk to the owner and make sure there are no lease restrictions.

Sincerely,
Hank Rossi

Editor’s note: Check your local and state regulations on issues such as this as it varies across the country.

As a child, Hank Rossi sometimes helped his father take care of the family rental-maintenance business.  In the mid-’90s he got into the rental business for himself. After he retired, he started a real-estate brokerage business with his sister that focuses on property management and leasing. Visit his website: https://rentsrq.com.

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