So many discussions about home security cameras take for granted the fact that people own their homes. And of course, homeowners are free to install all sorts of security equipment. But what about renters? Their rights are limited. A renter installing home security cameras is a touchy subject for many landlords.
Landlords are justified in their caution over security equipment. They need to protect their properties against damage caused by improper installation. They could also be liable if a tenant uses a home security camera to violate someone else’s privacy. The safest way for a landlord to protect himself is to simply bar security equipment altogether.
A Camera Dispute in Ontario
A good illustration of the touchy nature of renters and home security cameras is currently unfolding in Ontario, Canada. Eight members of a newly built community are facing eviction notices after refusing to remove exterior video cameras they installed themselves.
According to reports, the tenants received verbal approval to install the cameras. Later on, property owners came back and said the cameras had to come down. They cited complaints from other community members as the main reason for their change of heart.
Property owners also cited damage and safety concerns. But like the alleged neighbor complaints, the concerns were never formally documented. On the other hand, the alleged approval for the cameras was never documented either. So it is the tenants’ word against the property owner’s.
Lease Language Is Everything
Unfortunately, I do not have enough details about the Canadian case to fully understand what’s going on. But I can tell you this: in the U.S., lease language is everything when it comes to tenant rights. If something is explicitly prohibited in a lease, doing it anyway is taking a risk.
I cannot imagine American landlords allowing the installation of exterior video cameras. Undoubtedly there are some exceptions, but most landlords don’t want the liability. As for interior cameras, that is a different matter.
Leases typically bar tenants from installing any devices requiring even minimal alterations. So mounting a video camera on the wall wouldn’t be allowed. But a landlord would not have any say over a wireless video camera sitting on a shelf – unless a lease specifically mentioned such a scenario.
Renters and Portable Video Cameras
It’s true that most renters are not allowed to alter the properties in which they reside. But that does not mean video surveillance is completely out of the question. Portable video cameras are ideal for renters because they can be placed and moved around at will.
Vivint Home Security offers a number of interior cameras that would be perfect for renters. Any renter who didn’t want to go with a complete system like Vivint’s could choose from any number of off-the-shelf products from both major and lesser-known brands.
An interior video camera pointed directly at the front door provides a perfect view of anyone entering her leaving. Combined with a motion sensor that sets off an audible alarm, it could be a powerful deterrent to someone attempting to gain unauthorized access.
No Easy Answers
Despite the availability of portable video cameras and wireless motion sensors, deploying security equipment as a renter can be dicey. There are no easy answers to some of the most perplexing home security questions renters face.
Renters do have options, but they are limited. If you rent and are interested in home security, be sure to do your research before you invest in anything. Take a good look at your lease as well. Be sure you know what is allowed and what is not.
