What Are the Rules for Surveillance Cameras?

But with this comes a number of questions – both legal and ethical. Where can you record? Who can you record? And will anyone object to your cameras? Read on as we provide some answers.

One of the most common queries about CCTV is where exactly you’re allowed to record. In most cases, you’ll want to cover any areas where criminals or vandals could be seen. That includes entry points like doors and windows, but also areas like your drive or garden.

Understandably, it could be difficult to cover these areas without also covering part of the public street or your neighbour’s property. Neighbours might feel that cameras intrude on their privacy, while members of the public could also complain about cameras that record them as they pass.

In both cases, it’s best to avoid recording areas beyond the boundaries of your property. You should also speak to your neighbours before installing CCTV to explain where your cameras will cover and avoid any misunderstandings.

While surveillance cameras are commonly used to monitor the outside of your property and prevent break-ins, they can also be effective inside a commercial building.

This could be for access control – checking there are no intruders in the building or in certain areas. It can also be used to monitor staff activity if you’re concerned about theft. If you’re particularly stringent with employees, cameras can even be used to monitor what they’re actually doing.

The question is – is it legal? The answer is yes, as long as staff have been informed and consent to the surveillance. The easiest option is to clearly outline what surveillance you have in place and how long footage will be kept for in their contract, which will need to be read and signed by all employees. It’s also best practice to have clear signs wherever CCTV cameras are being used.

Another area of ambiguity with surveillance cameras is recording inside your own home. You might want to check in on your home while you’re away, for added peace of mind. Or maybe you want to make sure your pets are okay while you’re at work.

Whatever the case, it’s usually fine given that it’s your property you’re recording. However, it’s worth considering other people inside your home such as babysitters, cleaners or tradesmen. To avoid any complications, it’s best to make people aware of the cameras and get their consent.

At Selectron, we offer a variety of state-of-the-art surveillance cameras backed by a wealth of experience installing security products throughout Bermuda. With our help, you can make sure your cameras cover the right areas for total peace of mind without any complications.

To find out more, simply contact our team at info@selectron.bm.