What To Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Boston

You want the best security for your home, and know that surveillance cameras are an essential element. Just the presence of a camera fixed to the side of your house is enough to deter many prowlers. But are there legal restrictions on where you can place them and how they may be used? All things considered, there’s isn’t much to worry about, but there are some things you ought to know in regards to home security camera laws.

General Guidelines For Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

While there are no specific home security camera laws from a federal perspective, it is lawfully recognized that everyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific areas. To illustrate, you would expect bedrooms, locker rooms, and bathrooms to be private and not suitable for video recording. Conversely, places like the side or front of your house are public and open to video recording. Generally speaking, people don’t have a lawful right to privacy in a public surrounding.

Where Is Your Boston Camera Pointed?

Another thing to contemplate is how your cameras are directed. Even when you have a camera in a public place, like fastened to your home’s exterior, you can’t aim it at a private area like your neighbor’s bathroom. In your own residence, it’s best to abstain from installing cameras in bedrooms (specifically the ones frequented by houseguests) and bathrooms.

While all states comply with the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there may be other laws concerning the placement and usage of surveillance cameras. If you use devices in public areas and for the purpose of security, you’ll be in compliance, but it’s always a good idea to be informed of your state’s specific requirements.

Are You Permitted To Record Audio From Surveillance Systems In Boston?

The audio aspect of camera systems is trickier as it depends largely on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) permits recording audio of private conversations when one individual agrees. So, if you have a camera with audio functionality on your property and approve of recording a conversation, you are legally allowed to do so. However, many states have exceeded the requirement of one-party consent and now call for consent from two or all parties. Make sure you know what is approved in your state.

Why Install Video Cameras At Your Boston Property?

You have a legal right to use cameras at your residence, and there are good reasons for doing so. Burglars are not as likely to consider your home as a target if they see video cameras, as they don’t want to be caught on a recording. If a robbery does occur, your recording can be crucial to the criminal investigation. But you can utilize surveillance systems for other reasons. You might observe your dearest newborn, check in on your four-legged friends, and get proof your children are back from school.

Stay Protected With ADT Home Security Cameras In Boston From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Install the best surveillance cameras in Boston by reaching out to the experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service team will ensure your cameras are installed precisely and function as planned. Give us a call today at (617) 430-5865 to arrange an appointment.