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December 11, 2023

What You Need To Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Roanoke

You want your property to have the best security, and know that video cameras are an essential element. Even the presence of a camera perched on the front of your house is enough to scare off many prowlers. But are there legal limitations as to where you may put them and how you may use them? By and large, there’s isn’t much to be concerned about, but there are a few things you should know regarding home security camera laws.

A Quick Note On Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

Even though there aren’t designated home security camera laws from a federal standpoint, it is lawfully acknowledged that all people have a reasonable expectation of privacy in certain areas. For example, you would expect video recording to be forbidden in private places like bedrooms, bathrooms, and locker rooms. On the contrary, locations such as the front or perimeter of your house are public and subject to video recording. In general, we don’t have a lawful right to privacy in pubilc surroundings.

Where Is Your Roanoke Camera Pointed?

One element to contemplate is how your cameras are directed. Even when you have a camera in a public area, like fastened to your garage, you can’t position it in the direction of a private location like your neighbor’s bedroom. In your own house, it’s smart to abstain from installing cameras in bedrooms (particularly the ones occupied by visitors) and bathrooms.

While every state abides by the reasonable expectation of privacy stipulations, there might be other laws regarding the placement and usage of surveillance cameras. If you utilize surveillance in public places and for the intent of security, you shouldn’t have anything to be concerned about, but it’s always wise to know your state’s specific requirements.

Are You Permitted To Record Audio From Camera Equipment In Roanoke?

The audio facet of surveillance systems is more complicated as it depends largely on where you live. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for recording audio of private exchanges as long as one individual approves. So, if you have an audio-equipped camera at your home and approve of recording communications, you have a legal right to do so. However, various states have gone past the one-party consent law and now demand consent from two or all parties. Make sure you know what is approved in your state.

Why Use Video Cameras At Your Roanoke Residence?

You are legally permitted to operate cameras at your property, and there are multiple reasons to do so. Burglars are much less likely to target your home if they see surveillance, as they won’t want to get captured on a recording. If a break-in does happen, your video may be crucial to law enforcement’s investigation. But you can utilize cameras for even more. You can keep watch of your precious newborn, look after your pets, and get visual confirmation your children have returned from school.

Install ADT Surveillance Systems In Roanoke From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Choose the best surveillance cameras in Roanoke by reaching out to the pros at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service team will ensure your cameras are installed correctly and function as planned. Give us a call today at (540) 212-9084 to arrange an appointment.