Alabama Laws on Security Cameras in Shared Rental Spaces

Renters in Alabama often have questions about the use of surveillance cameras in shared spaces like hallways, laundry rooms, parking lots, and entryways. Balancing safety and privacy is important, and Alabama law addresses what landlords can and cannot do when it comes to monitoring common areas. Here's what you need to know about your rights as a renter in Alabama regarding security cameras in common spaces.

Are Landlords Allowed to Install Cameras in Common Areas?

Alabama law does not specifically prohibit landlords from installing security cameras in shared or common areas of rental properties. Common areas may include:

• Building entrances and lobbies
• Hallways and stairwells
• Laundry rooms
• Parking lots and garages
• Mail areas

These areas are generally open to all tenants, visitors, and staff. Security cameras here are usually permitted as long as they are not used to invade tenants’ reasonable expectation of privacy.

Privacy Rights in Alabama Rental Properties

While Alabama has no state statute directly regulating the placement of security cameras in rental common areas, both Alabama’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and basic privacy principles apply. Landlords cannot place cameras in areas where you have an expectation of privacy, such as:

• Inside apartment units
• Bathrooms (public or private)
• Inside bedroom areas

Placing cameras in these restricted areas without consent is illegal under state and federal wiretapping and privacy laws¹.

Your Rights and Steps If You Have Concerns

If you notice cameras in what you believe are inappropriate or private spaces, you can take several actions to protect your privacy.

• Document the camera’s location, type, and any posted signage
• Contact your landlord or property manager in writing to express your concerns
• If the issue involves a suspected privacy violation, you may wish to notify local law enforcement or file a complaint with the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division

Official Forms: Filing a Privacy Complaint

• Form Name: Consumer Complaint Form
  How it's used: Tenants may use this official form to report a landlord who is suspected of violating privacy rights (for example, installing cameras in bedrooms or bathrooms) or engaging in harassing surveillance. Example: If a tenant discovers a hidden camera in a bathroom, they would complete this form, attaching relevant documentation and photos.
  Download the Alabama Consumer Complaint Form (PDF)

After submitting the complaint, the Attorney General's office will review and may contact both parties for more information.

Which Alabama Tribunal Handles Tenant-Landlord Issues?

Most landlord–tenant disputes in Alabama, including those involving privacy and security, are handled by your local county District Court. You can find county court contact information on the Alabama Judicial System Clerks directory.

Tip: Always document your concerns in writing—email is usually sufficient—and keep copies for your records.

Relevant Alabama Legislation

The primary law governing your tenancy is the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. While this law does not mention cameras directly, it does require landlords to provide safe premises and respect tenant privacy (Sections 35-9A-204 and 35-9A-301)².

For recording devices and consent, Alabama is a "one-party consent" state under Ala. Code § 13A-11-30, which means at least one person must consent to audio recordings. Visual recording in private spaces is absolutely prohibited without consent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord put cameras in the hallways or parking lot?
   Yes, Alabama landlords may install security cameras in common areas like hallways and parking lots, provided these do not infringe on tenant privacy or record inside private living spaces.
2. Are hidden cameras allowed in my apartment?
   No. Landlords cannot place any surveillance devices inside tenants’ apartments or private areas such as bathrooms and bedrooms.
3. How do I report inappropriate or illegal camera placement?
   You can use Alabama’s official Consumer Complaint Form and, if needed, contact your local District Court for further legal action.
4. Is my landlord required to notify me before installing cameras?
   While no law requires landlords to notify tenants before adding cameras in shared spaces, best practice—and sometimes lease agreements—may require it. Always check your lease terms.
5. Can I remove or block a camera myself?
   No, do not tamper with property-owned security devices. Instead, document your concerns and follow the complaint process for resolution.

Summary: What Alabama Renters Should Know

• Security cameras are generally allowed in common areas but not in places where you have a reasonable expectation of privacy.
• If you’re concerned about privacy violations, document, communicate in writing, and use Alabama’s official resources for reporting.
• Landlord–tenant disputes are typically addressed by your local District Court under Alabama’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Staying informed about your privacy rights helps you feel secure in your home and community spaces.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alabama Attorney General – Consumer Complaint: File a privacy or landlord-tenant complaint
• Alabama District Courts: Local court information for tenant–landlord disputes
• Alabama Legal Help – Housing: Free legal aid for renters
• Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Full text of the law

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1. Alabama Code § 13A-11-30 (Criminal Surveillance Law), Criminal Surveillance Law
2. Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Sections 35-9A-204 and 35-9A-301

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