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Security Cameras in Condos
Many of us have seen signs in businesses that state the property is under surveillance via the use of cameras. We have also visited people’s homes who have security cameras that are recording the home’s entrances, driveway, or yard. Cameras are typically used as a tool for a security system, but some people do not want to be recorded.
Condominium buildings utilize security cameras to maintain the safety of occupants and the property. But there has been some debate over the locations where security cameras should be installed in condominium buildings. The board of the condo building must balance the rights and privacy of its occupants versus the security of the building. It is important that the purpose of security cameras is laid out and explained to residents before the installation if it is an add-on service.
Placement of Cameras in Condo Buildings
The expectation of privacy only extends to a person’s home or dwelling and does not include shared locations such as the lobby, hallways, elevators, or stairwells. Condo buildings typically reserve the right to place security cameras in these areas. However, in some instances, the addition of security cameras is considered an improvement to the common areas, and the board will send a notice to the building’s occupants. Occupants may then be allowed to vote on these additional security measures.
If there is a concern for the safety and security of the occupants and staff, a board may install security cameras as a precaution without notifying residents.
Pools and fitness areas, while deemed common areas, may not have security cameras because some boards do not feel they should be under video surveillance. Integrated security systems would allow privacy in these areas while still ensuring they are protected and monitored.
Goals of Security Cameras
The goal of installing security cameras on commercial properties is to deter possible criminal activity or misbehaving. In the event of an emergency or criminal act, security camera footage can provide key evidence. Condo buildings should install signs letting occupants know they are being monitored in the common areas that have cameras installed.
Security cameras must be placed so that they do not record the inside of anyone’s unit or anything that falls outside of the property line, such as adjacent homes or businesses.
Creating a Privacy and Security Policy
A video surveillance and privacy policy should state the purpose of the security cameras, along with procedures and guidelines for the board to adhere to. Included should be guidelines relating to the access to and storage of the video footage. Additional key points your security policy should address are:
- The location of each security camera in the condo building
- Policy on allowing occupants to review video footage
- How long footage will be archived before deletion
- Notifying residents of changes to the existing security system
The board must ensure the security system equipment is properly maintained and is in good working order. It is important to note that security camera systems should not record audio, as this could be considered a criminal offense and requires prior legal consent from all parties.
The board must also ensure all camera footage is kept in a secure location with limited access. Typically, recordings are destroyed after 30 days, but the board will determine a timeline based on state statutes. Larger condo buildings may need to look into backing up footage.
High Rise Security Systems, HRSS, are experts in integrated security solutions for commercial properties. We provide security systems for multi-layered protection for commercial businesses that include fire and life safety and security in one manageable system.
HRSS is an industry leader in fire, life safety, and security integration solutions and offers comprehensive services, including custom system design, maintenance, repairs, testing, and monitoring 24/7/365. Our skilled and knowledgeable technicians deliver exceptional service and provide your business with maximum protection with our integrated commercial security systems. Contact us to learn more about commercial security systems and where security, detection and notification devices are required in public and commercial properties.