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December 11, 2023

What To Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Buffalo

You want the best security for your property, and know that video cameras are an essential element. The mere presence of a camera attached to the front of your house is enough to scare off many potential intruders. But are there legal limitations as to where you may put them and how to use them? All things considered, you don’t have anything to be concerned about, but there are some things you should know in regards to home security camera laws.

Understanding Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

Even though there are no specific home security camera laws from a federal standpoint, it is legally acknowledged that all citizens have a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific areas. For example, you would expect video recording to be prohibited in private spots like locker rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Conversely, areas like the front or perimeter of your property are public and subject to video surveillance. Generally speaking, individuals don’t have a legal right to privacy in a public surrounding.

Where Do You Have Your Buffalo Camera Pointed?

One element to think about is how your cameras are aimed. Even if you have a camera in a public area, like fixed to your garage, you can’t aim it directly at a private area like your neighbor’s interior. Within your own house, it’s wise to abstain from placing cameras in bedrooms (especially ones frequented by guests) and bathrooms.

While all states abide by the reasonable expectation of privacy requirements, there may be other laws in regards to the usage and placement of surveillance cameras. If you have surveillance in public areas and for the explicit purpose of security, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about, but it’s always to understand your state’s specific regulations.

Can You Record Audio From Camera Equipment In Buffalo?

The audio element of surveillance systems is trickier as it mostly depends on your location. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for recording audio of private conversations when at least one individual approves. So, if you have a camera with audio functionality at your home and agree to recording communications, you have a legal right to do so. With that being said, various states have exceeded the one-party consent requirement and now call for consent from multiple parties. Be sure you are aware of what is allowed in your state.

Why Utilize Video Cameras At Your Buffalo Home?

You have a legal right to use cameras at your property, and there are excellent reasons for doing so. Vandals are not as willing to break into your property if they see surveillance, as they won’t want to get caught on a recording. If a robbery does occur, your footage may be essential to the police investigation. But you are able to utilize surveillance systems for much more. You might keep watch of your dearest newborn, check in on your furry friends, and get visual confirmation your kids are home from school.

Get The Best ADT Home Security Cameras In Buffalo From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Choose the best surveillance systems in Buffalo by contacting the specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service team will make certain your cameras are installed correctly and operate as expected. Call today at (716) 219-8231 to request an appointment.