Warning failure to follow these CCTV laws could land you with big fines
Installing security cameras in your home can be a great first line of defence if you're keen to deter burglars and intruders.
We've tested countless cameras over the years, and they all perform a fine role of recording what goes on in your personal space, and many can notify you if there's anything suspicious you need to see.
They can even help police officers to carry out investigations, if you happen to record something that can be used as evidence, such as a suspect leaving a scene near to your property.
But even adding a £25 wireless camera, or a basic video doorbell, could land you in hot water if you don't bring yourself up to speed with the laws surrounding video equipment.
Even video doorbells have to comply with the law (Nick Beer/Getty Images)And it's a bit of a minefield, with everything from GDPR and Data Protection Acts to fall foul of.
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Thankfully, though, there's a few simple steps you can take to make sure you're compliant. So here's our simple guide on how to ensure your home CCTV setup isn't going to get you in any trouble.
The rules apply to everyone
The first thing you need to know about CCTV rules is that nobody is exempt. CCTV systems can be anything that capture video footage, and the storage of that footage - something nearly all systems will do - is governed by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA).
But don't be alarmed. The laws themselves are complex, but making sure you're not falling foul of any is quite simple to check. Importantly, if your CCTV system captures images of people outside the boundary of your private domestic property – for example, from neighbours’ homes or gardens, shared spaces, or from public areas – then the GDPR and the DPA will apply to you.
What you need to do to follow the rules
If you think a neighbouring property might be visible on your CCTV recordings, then the best steps to take are pretty much common sense.
Firstly, go and speak to your neighbours. Tell them you're using recording equipment. Explain why, point out that the part of their property is more secure than it was before and it's very likely they won't mind. Obviously, expect their perceptions to change if a camera is pointed directly into their bedroom, but there shouldn't be any need to do that.
Show them the footage. Provide them with some recent recordings, check they're happy with what you can see and record, and be open to moving your camera if they ask.
If your neighbour asks you to delete any recordings, in most circumstances, you must do it. You must also stop recording a person's property if they change their mind and object, as long as it's possible to do so.
Remember, data protection means you are responsible for any recorded activity or information your device has captured, and how secure that data is. You must also be open to any subject access requests you receive from the people you record.
(Getty Images/iStockphoto)Be sensible about how you position your cameras
Ask yourself: What do I need to monitor? Do I need to be able to see neighbouring properties? Can it be avoided without compromising the view from my camera?
Could you consider systems that can reduce intrusion, such as those which have privacy filters?
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And always ensure you are transparent with people about your setup. If you don't want to involve your neighbour, don't point the camera at them.
It's also wise to put up a notice informing anyone who enters your property that they're being recorded.
Be careful with recordings
Storing footage might mean storing data about people, and GDPR laws apply. You should make sure that the date and time on your system are accurate, check you have enough recording space and do not store any information or images for longer than is necessary to protect your property. Delete the information once it is no longer required.
Keep the recordings secure and keep access to them to a minimum. Remember that you are responsible for what happens with the information.
How to find out more
The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) is the most important resource for checking your CCTV system is following the rules.
The ICO can follow up complaints from people who have issues with a neighbour's CCTV system, and ask the owner of the camera to resolve issues.
On the ICO's website there are some clear guidelines owners will need to adhere to, and information for anyone who feels unhappy about a nearby camera.
The most important step to take is to read and understand these guidelines, as it can prevent confrontations further down the line.
If you have any questions about the use of domestic CCTV, you can contact the ICO or call 0303 123 1113.
If you are unhappy about the use of a domestic CCTV system, use the ICO’s online tool to determine the best course of action in your situation.
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