What are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security in Columbia?
Are you thinking about improving your home’s security with video cameras but want to ensure you understand the law that governs their usage? It’s smart to confirm if you’re compliant, and bolstering your home with an added layer of security is a terrific idea. Taking that into account, what are the laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home security? See what you ought to know.
What is the reasonable expectation of privacy?
A noteworthy principle that governs the use of interior and outdoor video cameras is the reasonable expectation of privacy. It has been legally established that citizens should expect privacy in certain areas. This reasonable expectation of privacy includes settings like locker rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Yet, it’s totally fine to have cameras in public spaces like outside your home.
Avoid snooping and keep your focus on home security in Columbia
Although laws on outdoor surveillance cameras for home use give you the right to put up outdoor cameras, that doesn’t permit you to point them at your neighbor’s bathroom or bedroom windows. Always be mindful of how your surveillance components are situated. Whenever you use inside cameras, they should stay out of bedrooms and baths, as guests will expect privacy in those places.
It’s important to note that state laws in regards to surveillance equipment in public areas may differ. Even so, if you’re using cameras at your home for the explicit purpose of security, you shouldn’t have anything to fret about.
What about audio recordings in Columbia?
Audio recordings from surveillance cameras is not as clear-cut. Although a federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows the recording of private discussions when just one party consents, state laws vary. Most states abide by the one-party consent rule, but many others mandate all-party permission in certain situations. Take a look at the breakdown for each state. If you live in a state that allows one-party consent and are part of the exchange, you can record audio legally without getting permission from the other participants.
What are the top possibilities for outside cameras in Columbia?
Video cameras have advanced noticeably in a short time. You may now choose handy wireless versions and find worthwhile features like HD image quality, night vision, wide-angle views, and motion sensing. Some innovative cameras even come with built-in theft deterrents. For example, some components scare off intruders by flashing an LED light and triggering an alarm. This capability is an effective way to defend against porch pirates and invasions.
Install a Vivint home security system with top-end surveillance
Enhance your property’s security and effectively prevent theft with a modern smart home from Vivint. We offer some of the leading video cameras in Columbia, including those with active deterrents. You’ll appreciate this extra layer of security and the instant alerts you receive when a camera detects suspicious activity. Give us a call at (803) 921-0946 to explore everything we have to offer.