Alaska Laws on Surveillance Cameras in Apartment Common Areas

As technology advances, security cameras in shared spaces like apartment hallways, laundry rooms, and parking lots have become more common in Alaska. But what exactly are your rights as a renter regarding surveillance in these community areas? Understanding Alaska’s laws can help you protect your privacy and know what your landlord can (and cannot) do when it comes to cameras in your building.

Can Landlords Install Security Cameras in Common Areas in Alaska?

Alaska law does not specifically prohibit landlords from installing video surveillance cameras in common areas of rental properties, provided these cameras are not in places where tenants can reasonably expect privacy (such as inside individual units or bathrooms). The main source of tenant and landlord regulations in Alaska is the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Where Can Cameras Be Placed?

Alaska landlords may lawfully place surveillance cameras in areas such as:

• Building entrances and exits
• Hallways and stairwells
• Parking lots and garages
• Shared laundry, mailbox, or storage rooms

However, cameras cannot be installed in places where privacy is expected, such as:

• Inside your rented unit
• Bathrooms or changing rooms
• Directly outside windows facing into a unit

Are Landlords Required to Notify Tenants About Cameras?

While Alaska law does not require advance written notice to tenants about cameras installed in common areas, landlords generally must refrain from intruding on a tenant’s right to "quiet enjoyment" of their rental home.^[2] Placing cameras in a manner that’s unreasonably intrusive—such as aiming them into windows or using audio recording without consent—may violate Alaska privacy laws or other statutes.

Steps to Take If You Believe Your Privacy Is Violated

If you have concerns about surveillance cameras on the property, you have the right to ask your landlord about their purpose and placement. If you believe a camera is unreasonably invasive or installed in a prohibited area, consider these steps:

• Check your lease agreement for any provisions about video or audio monitoring
• Politely ask your landlord to explain the cameras’ locations and to move them if needed
• If the issue involves a clear privacy violation, gather evidence (photos, lease language) and contact the Alaska Landlord and Tenant Mediation Office

If you feel uncomfortable or harassed by camera placement, document your communications with your landlord and consider contacting the Alaska Department of Law Consumer Protection Unit for guidance.

Reporting and Official Forms

If discussions with your landlord fail to resolve the issue, you can file a formal complaint. Alaska does not have a specific form solely for "camera complaints," but general tenant-landlord disputes—including privacy issues—can be raised using the Notice to Landlord of Breach of Agreement or Violation of Law form.

• Form Name: Notice to Landlord of Breach of Agreement or Violation of Law
• When/how to use: Use when your landlord's actions—like installing cameras in prohibited areas—violate your rental agreement or state law. Fill out the form, detail the violation, and deliver it to your landlord. If the problem isn’t fixed, you can take the complaint to Alaska’s Civil Division for further action.
• View the official form and instructions here.

Who Handles Tenant Disputes in Alaska?

The official body that handles most residential tenancy disputes in Alaska is the Alaska Department of Law: Consumer Protection – Landlord & Tenant. For some cases, district court involvement may be required.

Laws Protecting Renter Privacy in Alaska

Alaska’s Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act primarily governs landlord and tenant relations, including rights to privacy. Surveillance laws may also reference Alaska criminal statutes on harassment, privacy, and eavesdropping.^[3]

FAQ: Surveillance Cameras in Alaska Apartment Common Areas

1. Can my landlord put cameras in the hallway or lobby? Yes, in Alaska, landlords can install cameras in shared hallways or lobbies, as these are considered common areas and not private spaces.
2. Does my landlord need to inform me about cameras? Alaska law does not specifically require written notice for common area cameras, but check your lease for any such policies.
3. Can there be audio recording on cameras? Audio recording without the consent of at least one party may violate Alaska’s recording laws. Confirm with your landlord and review Alaska statutes before assuming audio is legal.^[3]
4. Are cameras allowed inside my rental unit? No, landlords cannot place surveillance cameras inside your private apartment or home under Alaska law.
5. What should I do if I feel a camera invades my privacy? Document your concern, speak with your landlord, and, if unresolved, submit a Notice to Landlord of Breach of Agreement or Violation of Law.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Alaska Renters

• Landlords in Alaska may install cameras in common areas, but not in private spaces.
• Your right to privacy is protected—cameras cannot be used in a way that is harassing or unreasonably intrusive.
• If you have concerns about surveillance, use Alaska’s official forms and contact the proper agencies for support.

By knowing your rights and the steps to resolve issues, you can enjoy greater peace of mind in your Alaska rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Alaska Department of Law: Landlord & Tenant Information
• Alaska Court System: Housing & Landlord-Tenant Self-Help
• Notice to Landlord of Breach of Agreement or Violation of Law (Official Form)
• For legal advice or mediation: Contact the Alaska Legal Services Corporation

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1. Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03.010 - 34.03.380)
2. Alaska Department of Law – Landlord & Tenant
3. AK Statute 11.61.110: Harassment, Eavesdropping, and Privacy

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