Are Hidden Cameras Allowed in Kentucky Rental Properties?

Every renter values their privacy, especially inside their home. In Kentucky, concerns about landlords installing hidden cameras in rental units are becoming more common. This article explains what the law says about hidden surveillance in Kentucky rental properties, what landlords can and cannot do, and how renters can protect their privacy rights.

Your Right to Privacy in Kentucky Rentals

In Kentucky, tenants have strong rights to privacy within their rented homes. While landlords do have some rights to enter a rental unit for specific reasons, placing hidden cameras in areas where tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as living spaces and bedrooms, can violate state and federal laws. Understanding these rights can help protect you against unwanted surveillance.

What Does Kentucky Law Say?

Kentucky law does not have a single, specific statute about cameras in rentals, but several laws protect tenant privacy. Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) Chapter 383 – Landlord and Tenant Law outlines your right to peaceful enjoyment and privacy.

• Landlords generally may only enter your unit for repairs, inspections, or emergencies, and must give at least two days' notice (KRS 383.615).
• Invasion of privacy, such as recording a tenant without consent in private areas, may also be covered under Kentucky’s video voyeurism law (KRS 531.090).

Where Are Cameras Never Allowed?

Even if surveillance is claimed to be for security, it is never legal for landlords to put cameras in places where you expect privacy. This includes:

• Bedrooms
• Bathrooms
• Inside closets
• Other private living spaces

Security cameras may be allowed in common areas (such as hallways, entryways, or shared laundry rooms), as long as tenants are notified and cameras are visible.

Can My Landlord Install Cameras Without Telling Me?

No. In Kentucky, recording someone in a place where they expect privacy—like a rental home—is illegal without consent. Hidden cameras, especially those with audio recording, can break privacy and wiretapping laws. If you find an undocumented camera in your unit, you may have legal grounds to file a complaint.

Tip: If you spot any device that looks like a hidden camera, take photos, do not move or tamper with it, and contact local law enforcement or a legal aid service for guidance.

How to Address Illegal Camera Use in Your Rental

If you believe your landlord has placed hidden cameras in your Kentucky rental:

• Document the location and type of devices found (take clear photos).
• Write to your landlord asking for an explanation and removal of any illicit devices.
• If needed, file a complaint with law enforcement or the Kentucky District Court, which handles residential landlord-tenant disputes.

Kentucky does not have a specific tenant complaint form for this issue, but you may use a Petition for Relief (AOC-1027) to request action or compensation for privacy violations. For example, if you discover a hidden camera and your landlord refuses to remove it, you may file this petition in your local district court.

How to Use Petition for Relief (AOC-1027)

• Form name: Petition for Relief
• When to use: If you believe your landlord is violating your right to privacy or breaking Kentucky rental laws, you may submit this form to your local district court.
• How to use: Download the official AOC-1027 form, fill out the details of your case, and file it with the court clerk.

You can learn more about your rights in the Kentucky Landlord/Tenant Act and how to file in district court by visiting the Kentucky District Courts website.

FAQ: Kentucky Hidden Camera Tenant Rights

1. Can my landlord put security cameras in my Kentucky apartment?
   Landlords cannot place cameras inside your private living space. Outdoor or common area security cameras may be permitted if tenants are notified.
2. What should I do if I find a hidden camera in my rental?
   Document the camera, notify your landlord in writing, and contact your local police or file a petition with the Kentucky District Court.
3. Are audio recordings by landlords allowed in Kentucky?
   No. Recording audio without consent is illegal under both state and federal law.
4. How can I make a formal complaint about illegal surveillance?
   You may use a Petition for Relief (AOC-1027) and submit it to your local district court.
5. Is my landlord required to notify me if security cameras are installed in shared areas?
   Yes, landlords should inform tenants of visible cameras in shared or common areas.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

• Landlords are never allowed to place hidden cameras in your private living areas in Kentucky.
• If you discover an illegal camera, document everything, inform your landlord, and contact local authorities or file with the Kentucky District Court.
• Your privacy rights are protected by Kentucky landlord-tenant law and video voyeurism statutes.

Knowing your rights can help you stay safe and take action if your privacy is violated.

Need Help? Resources for Kentucky Renters

• Kentucky District Court – Handles residential landlord/tenant disputes.
• Kentucky Landlord/Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383) – Full landlord and tenant law.
• Kentucky Housing Corporation – Tenant resources and housing information.
• Kentucky Legal Aid – Free or low-cost legal help for tenants facing landlord disputes.

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1. KRS Chapter 383 – Kentucky Landlord/Tenant Act
2. KRS 531.090 – Video Voyeurism Statute
3. Kentucky District Court
4. Petition for Relief (AOC-1027)
5. Kentucky Housing Corporation

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