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December 11, 2023

What You Should Know About Home Security Camera Laws In Gaithersburg

You want the best security for your home, and know that surveillance cameras are an essential element. The mere presence of a camera fixed to the front of your house is enough to scare off many potential intruders. But are there laws regarding where you can place them and how you may use them? For the most part, you don’t have anything to worry about, but there are a couple things you need to know regarding home security camera laws.

Understanding Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

While there are no specific home security camera laws from a federal standpoint, it is legally accepted that all citizens have a reasonable expectation of privacy in some locations. For instance, you would expect locker rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms to be private and not suitable for video recording. On the contrary, locations like the side or front of your residence are public and subject to surveillance. As a general rule, individuals don’t have a lawful right to privacy in pubilc surroundings.

Where Do You Have Your Gaithersburg Camera Directed?

Another element to think about is how you direct your cameras. Even if you have a camera in a public place, like fixed to your garage, you can’t point it toward a private location like your neighbor’s interior. Inside your own home, it’s wise to keep cameras out of bedrooms (especially those used by houseguests) and bathrooms.

While every state complies with the reasonable expectation of privacy requirements, there might be other laws concerning the use of surveillance cameras. If you utilize cameras in public areas and for the intent of security, you shouldn’t have anything to be concerned about, but it’s always to understand your state’s exact regulations.

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

The audio facet of surveillance systems is not as straightforward as it mostly depends on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for audio recording of private exchanges as long as one individual approves. So, if you have an audio-equipped camera at your residence and agree to recording communications, you have a legal right to do so. However, various states have exceeded the requirement of one-party consent and now require consent from multiple parties. Make sure you understand what is allowed in your state.

Why Install Video Cameras At Your Gaithersburg Property?

You have a legal right to install cameras at your residence, and there are excellent reasons for doing so. Thieves are much less likely to break into your property if they see surveillance, as they won’t want to be caught on a recording. If a robbery does occur, your recording can be vital to the police investigation. But you are able to use cameras for other reasons. You can observe your precious baby, check in on your furry friends, and get visual confirmation your children are home from school.

Install ADT Home Security Cameras In Gaithersburg From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Choose the best surveillance cameras in Gaithersburg by contacting the experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service team will make certain your cameras are installed properly and operate as intended. Call today at (301) 278-8866 to schedule an appointment.