If security is a priority for you, you may be considering installing a CCTV camera to protect your home or business. But do you need to ask permission before installing a camera?
The short answer is no, you do not need permission to install a CCTV camera on your own property in the UK. However, there are guidelines from the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) that you will need to follow as a CCTV camera user.
What is the ICO?
The ICO is the UK's independent regulatory body that upholds our information rights. It is important to follow their guidelines when you are using a CCTV camera, as improper camera use may invade other people's privacy.
Essentially, you do not need permission to install CCTV but it is recommended that you make it clear that you are using the equipment for the safety and privacy of the people in the monitored area.
Do the ICO's CCTV data protection laws affect me?
If you have a CCTV camera system that only captures images or video within the boundary of your own private domestic property, then the CCTV data protection laws will not apply to you.
If your system captures footage of people outside of your private domestic property (such as neighbours' homes and gardens, or public paths), then you will need to ensure that your CCTV usage complies with the laws.
In general, if you own and use a CCTV camera monitoring system, you should always use it responsibly with the privacy of others in mind.
Domestic CCTV Guidance
Do I have to tell my neighbours I'm using CCTV?
If your CCTV monitoring system captures content beyond the boundary of your own private property, there should always be a justifiable reason for doing so. It's important to remember that you will potentially be questioned by a neighbour or the ICO regarding your CCTV camera usage, so you will need to be able to explain your reasoning.
Here are some things you can do to reassure them and act in line with the data protection guidelines:
- Make it clear that you are using CCTV by putting up a sign stating that recording is taking place. You could even include your reasoning on this sign, too.
- Have a discussion with your neighbours - there's nothing wrong with raising the idea and taking their opinions on board. Make sure to listen to the different points and arguments, and develop a security action plan that suits everyone affected by your CCTV monitoring.
- Only keep your CCTV footage as long as it's needed. Delete the footage when it is no longer needed or relevant.
- Secure your security camera to ensure that nobody can access the camera, tamper with the equipment, or view your CCTV recordings without good reason.
If you'd like to read more about the UK Government guidance on domestic CCTV systems, click the link below.
UK Gov Domestic CCTV Guidance
What can go wrong with CCTV?
Usually, most neighbours and tenants are on board with CCTV monitoring due to the fact it is an extremely effective crime deterrent. If your neighbours or tenants are worried about their privacy, there are a few issues that you may need to take quick action on:
1. Subject Access Requests: if you receive a SAR, you must respond within one month and give the individual a copy of the data you have. A SAR is a request from an individual that exercises their right to access the personal data you hold of them. In this case, it would be any CCTV footage. This request can be made verbally or in writing.
2. Request of deletion: if anyone asks you to delete footage of themselves, you should do this within one month. The only reason where you're allowed to refuse this is if you need to keep it for a genuine legal dispute. In this case, you must tell them this and explain they can challenge this in court, or complain to the ICO directly.
Could you benefit from a CCTV system?
IDS Security is a Cardiff-based business that installs and maintains a wide range of security systems, including surveillance cameras. Our CCTV systems include:
- PTZ cameras
- IP cameras and surveillance
- External CCTV Detection Units
- Digital video recording and network video recording
- Hard drive recorders
From conventional CCTV cameras to digital IP cameras, we can provide the most appropriate CCTV security system for your premises.
If you would like to discuss the best option for your home or business, contact us today for a no-obligation quote. Not sure what would be best for you? No problem - just fill out our security survey and we'll be in touch to recommend the best solution for your requirements.
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