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December 11, 2023

What To Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Ann Arbor

You want the best security for your famiy, and know that video cameras are a big part of it. The mere sight of a camera attached to the side of your house is enough to frighten away many potential intruders. But are there laws regarding where you may place them and how they may be used? For the most part, you don’t have anything to fret over, but there are a few things you should know in regards to home security camera laws.

General Guidelines For Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

Although there aren’t particular federal home security camera laws, it is legally recognized that all people have a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific locations. For instance, you would expect video recording to be forbidden in private spots like bathrooms, locker rooms, and bedrooms. Conversely, areas like the front or side of your house are public and open to surveillance. As a general rule, we don’t have a right to privacy in pubilc surroundings.

Where Is Your Ann Arbor Camera Directed?

One thing to think about is how you position your cameras. Even if you have a camera in a public area, like attached to your garage, you can’t position it straight at a private area like your neighbor’s bathroom. In your own home, it’s best to keep cameras out of bedrooms (especially any used by houseguests) and bathrooms.

While all states comply with the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there might be additional laws concerning the usage and placement of surveillance cameras. If you utilize devices in public locations and for the intent of security, you shouldn’t have anything to be concerned about, but it’s always smart to understand your state’s exact restrictions.

Are You Allowed Record Audio From Surveillance Devices In Ann Arbor?

The audio facet of surveillance is not as straightforward as it mostly depends on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for audio recording of private exchanges when at least one party agrees. So, if you have an audio-enabled camera at your home and consent to recording a conversation, you have a legal right to do so. However, various states have gone past the requirement of one-party consent and now demand consent from all parties. Make sure you are aware of what is approved in your state.

Why Install Surveillance At Your Ann Arbor Home?

You have a legal right to install cameras at your home, and there are good reasons for doing so. Burglars are not as likely to consider your home as a target if they notice surveillance, as they don’t want to get detected on video. If a burglary does occur, your video can be essential to the police investigation. But you can utilize cameras for much more. You can monitor your precious newborn, look after your pets, and get validation your children are back from school.

Get The Best ADT Surveillance Cameras In Ann Arbor From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Get the best surveillance cameras in Ann Arbor by reaching out to the experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will make certain your components are installed properly and function as intended. Call today at (734) 224-3173 to request your appointment.