Private CCTV in communal area

Jemma01

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81953780#Comment_81953780

no, I don't need to, it's a public place, there's no expectation of privacy.

The neighbour, whom your partner didn't speak to, might have been burglarised before, yet you're here throwing judgement left and right deflecting your own feelings on other ppl.

Stop meddling between seemingly peaceful neighbours in a neighborhood you don't even live in.

WIAWSNB

Ouch!

My understanding is that CCTV which covers communal/public areas should be accompanied by signage. Also, you have the right to request footage that involves you.

Best thing, tho', is to write down a concise description of the situation, and contact - 'chat' - with ICO - get their opinion. Then approach the ManCo.

Although irritating, what is your partner's specific issue here? Do they know the person with the camera - had any issues with them? Why is the person recording, do they know?

What is your partner's actual concern, and could these be mitigated by finding some reassurance in the property being monitored and kept more secure by this?

unknownuser2u

This is a bit of a grey area, but generally if a private CCTV camera is capturing footage beyond the owner’s own property, things get more sensitive from a legal point of view.

If it’s just covering their own entrance or immediate area for security, that’s usually fine. But if it’s clearly recording shared spaces like the front garden, entrance or gate that other residents use, then they’re likely expected to follow data protection rules, as it’s no longer purely “personal use”.

That means things like having a clear reason for the camera, only capturing what’s necessary, and ideally putting up signage so people know they’re being recorded. They should also be able to justify why it’s needed and not overly intrusive.

In a housing association setting, there may also be tenancy or lease conditions about making alterations or installing equipment that affects communal areas, so that’s definitely worth checking.

Probably the best first step would be to raise it informally with the housing association and ask what their policy is. They can usually step in if something isn’t appropriate. If that doesn’t get anywhere, the ICO has guidance on domestic CCTV which might be helpful as a reference.

It’s understandable your partner feels uncomfortable, especially if it feels like being monitored rather than just basic security.

ciderboy2009

What did the neighbour say when you asked them about the camera?