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December 11, 2023

What You Need To Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Kennewick

You want your property to be fully protected, and know that video cameras are important. Just the existence of a camera attached to the side of your house is enough to deter many trespassers. But are there laws regarding where you can install them and how they may be used? All things considered, you don’t have anything to worry about, but there are a couple things you need to know about home security camera laws.

Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Guidelines

Although there are no specific federal home security camera laws, it is legally acknowledged that all citizens have a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific places. For example, you would expect bedrooms, bathrooms and locker rooms to be private and not acceptable for video recording. Conversely, places like the front or perimeter of your residence are public and subject to video recording. In general, people don’t have a lawful right to privacy in pubilc settings.

Where Is Your Kennewick Camera Aimed?

One aspect to think about is how you aim your cameras. Even when you have a camera in a public place, like fixed to the front of your house, you can’t position it toward a private setting like your neighbor’s bathroom. In your own house, it’s smart to abstain from placing cameras in bedrooms (especially ones used by houseguests) and bathrooms.

While every state adheres to the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there might be other laws in regards to the use of surveillance cameras. If you have devices in public places and for the purpose of security, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about, but it’s always to know your state’s particular regulations.

Are You Allowed Record Audio From Surveillance Devices In Kennewick?

The audio aspect of camera systems is more complicated as it depends largely on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes recording audio of private conversations as long as one party consents. So, if you have an audio-capable camera at your residence and agree to recording communications, you are legally allowed to do so. With that being said, various states have gone beyond the requirement of one-party consent and now call for consent from multiple parties. Be sure you are aware of what is approved in your state.

Why Install Surveillance At Your Kennewick Residence?

You are legally allowed to install cameras at your home, and there are multiple reasons to do so. Burglars are much less inclined to break into your home if they notice cameras, as they won’t want to get captured on video. If a break-in does take place, your footage may be essential to the criminal investigation. But you can employ cameras for other reasons. You can observe your precious baby, watch over your four-legged friends, and get validation your kids are back from school.

Get The Best ADT Surveillance Cameras In Kennewick From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Choose the best surveillance systems in Kennewick by turning to the specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service team will ensure your devices are installed properly and run as intended. Place a call today at (509) 240-8704 to schedule an appointment.