Let’s face it, CCTV is everywhere these days. From shopping centres to car parks, surveillance is an expected part of our everyday lives. More and more, this is extending to private properties, too. You may have noticed video doorbells and other camera systems popping up all over your neighbourhood. And it makes sense — all residents have the right to feel secure in their own homes, and adding a CCTV camera can help bring peace of mind.

But what happens if a neighbour installs a home security camera that overlooks your property? It might give them more security, but who wants to feel as though they’re under observation every time they step out the front door or open the curtains?

If you’re worried about the effect your neighbour’s CCTV might have on your privacy, our guide is here to talk you through your (and their) legal rights.

Is it legal to have CCTV outside my house in the UK?

In short, yes — it’s legal to install home security cameras outside your property. Whether it’s to deter fly-tippers, keep opportunistic burglars at bay while you’re on holiday, or prevent anti-social behaviour, home security cameras can help keep your property safe and put your mind at ease. 

However, if you choose to install CCTV, you have to operate it responsibly. You have to adhere to the Data Protection Act 2018, just as all businesses and commercial spaces using CCTV do.

Can my neighbour have a CCTV camera pointing at my house?

If we look at this from the other side, then it’s legal for your neighbour to install CCTV outside their property, too. They don’t technically need your consent provided they have a legitimate reason for capturing footage — for example, to get evidence if someone tried to break into their home.

Perhaps your neighbour has spoken with you about their security concerns and asked if you’re happy for them to install CCTV even if part of your property is in view. On the other hand, if you’ve suddenly noticed cameras popping up, pointing directly at your home, and there’s no clear reason behind it, you’d be within your rights to question it. 

Any CCTV systems need to be installed within their property boundary and, ideally, the field of capture won’t expand beyond it. Sometimes, though, part of your home may be in view. If the CCTV captures footage beyond your neighbour’s property boundary, there are a few things they need to do to make sure their home security cameras comply with data protection laws:

• They must let people know CCTV is in use — this can be through a sign
• They also need to ensure their camera only records what they need
• If anyone captured on the camera asks to see the footage, they must let them
• They need to regularly delete the footage — this can be done automatically
• If you object to being filmed and there’s no valid reason to continue recording, they must stop

How to tell if a neighbour’s CCTV is pointing at your house

From a distance, it can be tricky to tell if a home security system is capturing footage of your property. 

If you can see a CCTV camera pointing in your direction, it’s best to speak directly with your neighbour. You can ask them politely about their camera’s field of view. If they’ve installed their home security cameras for a valid reason, they will likely be happy to discuss the angle and potentially readjust if you have privacy concerns.

Together you may be able to find other compromises to let you have your privacy with the cameras in place. For example, they might be able to add a security filter, which essentially blocks out your windows, doors, or whole property from the camera but lets them record the surrounding area. 

If you don’t feel comfortable having the conversation in person, you can always write your neighbour a letter — the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has a helpful template.

Can I complain about a neighbour’s CCTV camera?

As mentioned, the best way to handle the issue is to speak with your neighbour. They may not be aware that their camera is invading your privacy. 

If you raise your concerns and your neighbour refuses to adjust the camera or come to an agreement, you can submit a complaint to the ICO. 

It’s important to note that the ICO can’t make your neighbour remove their CCTV. What they can do is ask the CCTV owner to make sure they are complying with the Data Protection Act by installing a sign to show they have security cameras or responding to your concerns.

CCTV and home security systems in Wigan

The team at Argus Fire & Safety recognises that there can be a fine balance between one neighbour’s security and another’s privacy. If you’re looking to install home security cameras but want to make sure you’re following the right data protection laws, we can help. 

We have extensive knowledge of CCTV privacy laws in the UK and will make sure your system points in the right direction and keeps your home secure without affecting your neighbours. 

Find out more about our CCTV cameras and get in touch to have a chat with one of our helpful team members.