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- August 13, 2021
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Landlords who rent properties with communal areas may consider installing CCTV cameras to enhance security and safety. However, before doing so, it is crucial to understand the rules and regulations surrounding CCTV usage. This article provides an overview of these regulations and offers guidance to landlords considering installing CCTV.
One important consideration is GDPR and data protection. If CCTV cameras only provide live feeds and do not record anything, GDPR rules do not apply. However, if images and sound are recorded, landlords must follow GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 regulations in the UK.
To comply with data protection laws, landlords should first determine if CCTV is necessary. If there are alternative methods to monitor and protect communal areas, they should consider those options first. If CCTV is deemed necessary, landlords must ensure that they do not install cameras in areas where they invade tenants’ privacy.
Moreover, it is crucial to turn off sound recording unless there is a valid reason to do otherwise. When installing CCTV, landlords must create a written statement that explains the reasons for CCTV usage and what areas will be covered. This forms the basis of a CCTV and data protection policy.
Signs must be placed in prominent locations to inform people that CCTV cameras are in use, and who the data controller is, as well as how they can be contacted. Additionally, landlords must ensure that they only record what is necessary and delete recordings regularly. The data protection policy must state how long images will be kept and how deletions will be controlled.
All recordings must be stored securely, with limited access. Access to images must be controlled and monitored, and the recordings can only be used for the intended purposes outlined in the written statement. Landlords must register with the ICO and pay the correct fee.
If a member of the public requests to see recordings of them, landlords must provide a copy of the recordings within one month. Landlords must also delete all images of a member of the public within one month, unless there is a legitimate legal dispute requiring the images to be kept. In this case, the individual requesting the deletion must be informed.
Finally, landlords must not upload or stream any recordings online without robust justification. Failure to comply with data protection laws can lead to enforcement by the ICO or legal action by affected individuals.
In conclusion, CCTV in communal areas can enhance security, but landlords must follow regulations to ensure that it is compliant and not intrusive. By following these guidelines, landlords can protect their tenants and property effectively.