As technology as has advanced, and home security cameras have become more accessible to people, the issue has provoked many questions for community associations. Some of these include whether a homeowners’ association (HOA) or condominium owners’ association (COA) can or should prohibit owners from installing cameras, what type of guidelines should be implemented for the use of security cameras by owners, and whether the HOA/COA can install security cameras in common areas.
Use of Security Cameras by Individual Owners
While there is mixed evidence, some studies suggest that home security cameras and systems deter crime up to 50%. Thus, allowing owners to install and utilize home security cameras allows a sense of safety, and may in fact actually deter crime throughout the community.
However, privacy concerns should also be considered and weighed against safety concerns. Cameras should point away from neighbors’ windows and backyards. They should never be able to capture another’s private space.
Furthermore, the installation of cameras is typically considered an architectural change and should comply with the architectural guidelines and standards of the community association. If HOA/COA approval is required for architectural changes, owners should follow the procedures of the community association for approval before installing cameras.
Cameras and Common Areas
When a Board of Directors of an HOA or COA is considering installing cameras in common areas, they should first consult the governing documents. These documents often contain rules and guidelines regarding the use of cameras. Typically, cameras are used in common areas such as fitness centers, clubhouses, event spaces, and elevators. Again, privacy concerns must be considered. Cameras should not be used in areas such as bathrooms or changing rooms or point towards anywhere that captures private property.
Another consideration when deciding whether to utilize cameras in common spaces is cost. There is equipment, installation and maintenance costs but also the potential cost of having someone monitor and store the footage. A Board implementing camera usage must also decide who will access to the footage and what circumstances allow that person(s) to review footage.
If an HOA/COA Board is thinking about implementing security cameras in common areas, it should create and adopt a policy addressing all of these things. Moreover, if there are concerns over individual owners’ security cameras, a Board should consider amending the association’s community documents to include specific restrictions, guidelines, and/or standards with regards to cameras.
