New York Laws on Security Cameras in Building Common Areas

Many New York renters wonder whether landlords can put surveillance cameras in hallways, lobbies, laundry rooms, or other common areas. Knowing your rights can help protect your privacy and ensure building safety. This article reviews New York laws on surveillance cameras in shared spaces, explains your privacy protections, and provides links to official resources and complaint options.

Can Landlords Install Security Cameras in Common Areas?

In New York State, property owners are generally allowed to install security cameras in common areas like hallways, lobbies, entryways, and laundry rooms. The main goal is to protect tenants and property by deterring crime. However, there are important rules to remember:

• No cameras in private spaces: Cameras must never be placed in locations where tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside apartments, bathrooms, or locker rooms.
• Notice and transparency: Building management should not use cameras in ways that are hidden or secretive. Most buildings should notify tenants if new cameras are installed for security purposes.
• Reasonable use: Surveillance should be for legitimate purposes (like security), not for harassing or targeting individual renters.

New York City also has specific rules, including requirements for higher quality video systems in some buildings under Local Law 3 of 2019, especially for multi-family buildings with three or more units. Learn more about NYC Local Law 3 requirements.

What About Privacy Rights?

Tenants in New York have privacy rights under the New York State Real Property Law § 235, which prohibits landlords from interfering with your reasonable and private use of rental property.

• Landlords must not record audio without consent, as New York law requires at least one party’s consent for audio recordings.
• Cameras in public or common areas are generally permitted, as renters do not have the same expectation of privacy in these areas.
• All footage should be used only for building management and safety—using it for harassment or personal scrutiny may violate tenant rights.

If you believe a surveillance camera violates your privacy, you can contact your landlord in writing, or file a formal complaint (steps below).

Who Enforces These Rules?

The New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is the main agency handling residential tenancy matters in New York State, including privacy and security concerns.

NYC renters may also contact the NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development (HPD) for privacy complaints relating to city buildings.

What Forms Are Available for Complaints?

• DHCR Tenant’s Statement of Complaint(s) - Form RA-81
  
  • When to use: If you are in a rent-regulated apartment and believe a building camera violates your privacy or tenant rights.
  • How to use: Fill out and sign the form, describing the issue (e.g., surveillance camera in an inappropriate area or lack of notice), then submit it to DHCR.
  • View and download DHCR Form RA-81

Other complaints about harassment, discrimination, or failure to provide notice may use different forms. Check the HCR tenant complaint page for the latest options.

How to File a Formal Complaint

If you believe cameras are used improperly in your building, here are the typical action steps:

• Contact your landlord or building manager in writing to address your concerns.
• If unresolved, complete a DHCR Form RA-81 and submit it according to the instructions on the form.
• For NYC tenants, complaints about building security and surveillance can also be made via HPD or 311.

Understanding Local Variations

Some cities and rental buildings may have additional policies or security requirements. Always check with building management, and the local city website for any special rules or upgrades affecting surveillance or tenant protections.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord put cameras in the hallways or laundry rooms?
   Yes. In most cases, landlords are allowed to install cameras in common areas such as hallways and laundry rooms, as long as they do not record in private areas like bathrooms or inside your apartment.
2. Do landlords have to tell tenants before installing cameras?
   Generally, building management should notify tenants about new surveillance cameras. Notification builds trust, even if it is not always strictly required.
3. What should I do if a camera seems to violate my privacy?
   First, contact your landlord in writing. If your concern is not resolved, file a complaint with DHCR using the official form for your situation.
4. Is audio surveillance legal in New York rental buildings?
   No, recording audio is not legal without consent under New York law. Cameras may video record common areas, but not record conversations.
5. Who can help me if I have a surveillance complaint?
   Contact the New York State HCR or, in NYC, the HPD for support and information. See resources below for contact information.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords may install security cameras in most shared building spaces in New York, but never in private spaces.
• Notice, transparency, and reasonable use are required—audio recording is not allowed without consent.
• Renters can file official complaints using DHCR forms or contact city agencies for help if their privacy is violated.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) — Your official portal for tenant complaints and guidance
• HCR Tenant Complaint Forms and Instructions
• NYC HPD Tenant Rights and Assistance
• NYC 311 — Report building or privacy concerns online
• Read New York State Real Property Law § 235

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1. New York State Real Property Law § 235 – Use and Enjoyment
2. New York State HCR – Renters Rights
3. HCR – Tenant Complaint Forms
4. NYC Local Law 3 of 2019 – Security Cameras in Residential Buildings
5. NYC HPD – Tenant Rights and Resources

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