Are Hidden Cameras Allowed in Maryland Rental Properties?

As a Maryland renter, your right to privacy in your home is protected by state law. Landlords may have security concerns, but that does not give them open permission to install surveillance in your rental. Understanding the law around hidden cameras, video recording, and consent can help you protect your personal space and take action if needed.

Understanding Your Privacy Rights in Maryland Rentals

Maryland law recognizes a renter’s right to privacy. While landlords can enter the property for certain reasons—such as repairs or inspections—they must give notice and cannot infringe on your private life. Privacy becomes especially important when it comes to surveillance equipment, such as hidden cameras, in your rental unit.

Are Hidden Cameras Legal in Maryland Rentals?

In Maryland, it’s generally illegal for anyone—including a landlord—to record video or audio in private areas of a home without consent. Maryland is a "two-party consent" state for audio recordings, which means all parties must agree to be recorded. Secret cameras, especially in places like bedrooms, bathrooms, or any area you reasonably expect privacy, are almost always prohibited.

• Public spaces in multi-unit buildings (like hallways or lobbies): Landlords may use visible security cameras for general safety.
• Private living spaces (your actual unit): Landlords are not allowed to install hidden cameras—or any cameras—without clear notice and legal justification.
• Audio recording: Requires written consent from all parties, not just notification.

For further reading on Maryland’s electronic surveillance laws, see the Maryland Courts & Judicial Proceedings §10-402 (on intercepting communications).

When Are Landlords Allowed to Use Cameras?

Visible security cameras may be used outside your unit or in common areas, but recording private activity inside your rental without permission is illegal. If a landlord claims to use a camera inside your home for maintenance purposes, they must:

• Obtain your written consent
• Give reasonable and advance notice
• Remove any surveillance immediately upon request or complaint

What Should You Do If You Suspect Hidden Cameras?

If you think your landlord has placed unauthorized cameras or audio devices in your unit:

• Check for unusual devices or out-of-place items
• Document anything suspicious (photos, notes on location, dates)
• Do not tamper with or remove the device yourself
• Contact your landlord in writing to raise your concerns and request removal
• If not resolved, file a complaint with Maryland’s Consumer Protection Division or consider contacting local law enforcement

Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Maryland Consumer Complaint Form (OAG CPD-001)
  When to Use: If your landlord refuses to remove hidden cameras or ignores your concerns, use this form to file a complaint with the Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
  How to Use:
  • Fill out the Maryland Consumer Complaint Form online or print and mail it with supporting evidence (photos, messages)
  • Describe the surveillance issue, your attempts to resolve it, and provide your contact info
• District Court Civil Complaint Form (DC/CV 001)
  When to Use: If you seek damages or an injunction, you can file a civil complaint in the District Court of Maryland.
  How to Use:
  • Download Form DC/CV 001 from the District Court of Maryland Forms page
  • File at your local District Court, state your grievance, and attach any evidence

What Official Authority Handles Rental Disputes?

In Maryland, the District Court of Maryland hears most landlord-tenant disputes. For rental law questions, the Maryland Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division: Landlord-Tenant provides guidance and complaint resources.

Key Maryland Laws on Rental Privacy

• Maryland Courts & Judicial Proceedings §10-402 (Wiretapping and Electronic Surveillance)
• Maryland Real Property Code Ann. §8-203 (Landlord’s Right of Entry and Obligations)

In summary, hidden cameras without your knowledge or consent in your rental unit are not allowed, and renters have support from state agencies to address violations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can my landlord put cameras inside my rental unit?
   In Maryland, landlords cannot install cameras inside your private rental space without your written consent. Recording in private areas is generally illegal.
2. What should I do if I find a hidden camera in my rental?
   Document the device, notify your landlord in writing, and file a complaint with the Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division if the issue is not resolved.
3. Are cameras allowed in hallways or building entrances?
   Landlords may place visible cameras in common areas for security, but they cannot record audio or focus on individual units’ interiors.
4. Who can I contact about privacy violations by my landlord?
   You may reach out to the Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or file a complaint with the District Court of Maryland.
5. Is audio recording in my rental unit legal?
   No. Maryland law (two-party consent) makes it illegal to record audio conversations inside rentals without the clear consent of all involved people.

Conclusion

• Renters in Maryland are strongly protected against hidden or unauthorized cameras inside their units.
• If you suspect surveillance, document your concerns and follow official complaint channels for support.
• For serious privacy invasions, legal remedies are available through Maryland’s courts and state agencies.

Knowing your rights under Maryland law empowers you to advocate for your privacy and seek help when needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division: Landlord-Tenant
• District Court of Maryland – handles civil complaints and disputes
• Maryland Consumer Complaint Form
• People’s Law Library of Maryland: Renters’ Rights

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1. Maryland Courts & Judicial Proceedings §10-402 – Interception of Communications
2. Maryland Real Property Code Ann. §8-203 – Tenant's Rights and Landlord Entry
3. Maryland Consumer Complaint Form (CPD-001)
4. District Court Civil Complaint Form (DC/CV 001)
5. District Court of Maryland

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