Illinois Laws on Security Cameras in Apartment Common Areas

Feeling safe in your apartment is essential—but so is protecting your privacy. Many Illinois renters wonder what rights they have when surveillance cameras are used in the hallways, laundry rooms, lobbies, or outdoors of their apartment buildings. This article explains the current Illinois laws and key renter protections around security cameras in shared spaces.

Are Security Cameras Allowed in Common Areas?

Illinois law generally allows landlords or property managers to install and use surveillance cameras in the common areas of rental properties, such as:

• Building entrances and lobbies
• Hallways and stairwells
• Laundry and mail rooms
• Parking lots or garages
• Outdoor common spaces

There is no statewide law that bans security cameras in these shared spaces, as long as they are not used to record inside private units or locations where renters have a “reasonable expectation of privacy” (like bathrooms or inside bedrooms).

Your Privacy Rights as a Renter in Illinois

Although landlords have the right to protect the property, your privacy is also protected. Under the Illinois Residential Tenants' Right to Privacy Act, landlords cannot install cameras or listening devices inside any area primarily used for living or sleeping. Installing cameras inside your rental unit, or in areas such as shared bathrooms or locker rooms, would violate this law¹.

What About Audio Recording?

Illinois also has a strict eavesdropping law. Recording conversations, even in common areas, may violate the Illinois Eavesdropping Act if all parties do not consent. Most building security cameras are video-only to avoid violating this law².

Can a Renter Request Camera Footage?

There is currently no Illinois law that gives renters the automatic right to request or view surveillance footage. However, you can ask your landlord or management company if footage is available—especially after a security incident. If you need evidence after a crime, law enforcement can also request access during their investigation.

Who Oversees Rental Housing Issues in Illinois?

For most rental disputes in Illinois, the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) provides information and can refer you to proper complaint channels. For court actions, the Illinois Circuit Courts handle landlord-tenant matters. In Chicago, Chicago Department of Housing assists with city-specific rental protections.

Relevant Legislation

• Illinois Residential Tenants' Right to Privacy Act
• Illinois Eavesdropping Act
• Illinois Security Deposit Return Act (if concerns involve move-out disputes)

What Forms Might Renters Use?

Illinois does not require a standard form specifically for surveillance camera complaints. Depending on your situation:

• Tenant Complaint Form: Some cities offer a general complaint form, such as the Chicago Renter Complaint Form. Use this if you believe your privacy rights are being violated by improper camera placement. Submit online or by mail to the city.
• Court Complaint Forms: If negotiating with your landlord doesn’t resolve the problem, you may file a civil complaint in your local Illinois Circuit Court using the standard court forms. For example, the "Complaint (For Any Civil Action)" form is available for general disputes.

Always contact your local housing department or legal aid group if you need help choosing the right form.

Action Steps if You Have Concerns about Cameras in Common Areas

• Ask your landlord or property management in writing for information about camera locations and policies.
• If you believe a camera violates your privacy, document its placement and send a written request for adjustment.
• If the problem is not resolved, file a complaint using the appropriate form through your city or county housing office.
• For serious violations, consider seeking legal advice or filing in Circuit Court.

Taking prompt action helps safeguard both your privacy and your security.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord install cameras inside my apartment?
   No. Landlords cannot place cameras inside your personal rental unit, including bedrooms or bathrooms, under Illinois law.
2. Are landlords allowed to record audio with security cameras in common areas?
   Not unless all parties consent. Illinois law restricts audio recording without everyone's consent, even in shared areas.
3. What should I do if a camera seems to invade my privacy?
   Request in writing that your landlord move or adjust the camera. If unresolved, file a complaint with your city housing office or the courts.
4. Can I ask to see video footage after a security incident?
   You can ask, but landlords aren’t legally required to show it to tenants unless required by law enforcement or a court.
5. Who can I contact if I believe my rights are being violated?
   Start with your city housing department or the Illinois Housing Development Authority for guidance on your options.

Key Takeaways for Illinois Renters

• Surveillance cameras are legal in common areas, but never inside private units or places with expected privacy.
• Audio recording usually requires the consent of all parties under Illinois law.
• If you have concerns, take action by contacting your landlord or local housing agency.

Knowing your rights empowers you to balance safety with privacy while renting in Illinois.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Housing Development Authority: General housing information and resources
• City of Chicago File a Complaint: For renters in Chicago city limits
• Illinois Standard [Court Forms]: Use if filing a case in court
• Illinois Legal Aid Online: Free information for renters statewide
• Illinois Department of Human Services: Additional support for housing concerns

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1. See: Illinois Residential Tenants' Right to Privacy Act
2. Reference: Illinois Eavesdropping Act
3. Illinois Housing Tribunal: Not a single statewide tribunal, but issues go to your local Illinois Circuit Court

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