North Carolina Laws on Surveillance Cameras in Apartment Common Areas

Surveillance cameras are becoming more common in apartment buildings across North Carolina. As a renter, it's important to understand your privacy rights, when and where cameras are permitted, and how state law protects both residents and landlords. This guide explains North Carolina's key rules around security cameras in shared or common areas, and what you can do if you have privacy concerns.

Are Surveillance Cameras Allowed in Apartment Common Areas?

Under North Carolina law, landlords can generally install security cameras in common areas of rental properties, such as hallways, laundry rooms, lobbies, mailrooms, or parking lots. These areas are considered semi-public, so there is generally no expectation of full privacy. However, there are important limits to camera placement and use.

• No cameras in private areas. North Carolina law strictly prohibits video recording in areas where renters have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside apartments, bathrooms, and inside changing rooms.
• Audio recording is restricted. Recording conversations (with audio) without consent may be illegal under the North Carolina Electronic Surveillance Act.
• Notice is encouraged. While not always required by state law, many professional landlords will provide written notice or post signs if surveillance cameras are in use for safety and transparency.

Relevant North Carolina Laws

• North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42: Landlord and Tenant – covers landlord duties and renter protections¹
• North Carolina Electronic Surveillance Act (N.C.G.S. § 15A-286 et seq.) – regulates interception of oral and electronic communications²

Landlords must also comply with federal wiretapping laws, which prohibit intercepting audio communications without at least one party’s consent in North Carolina (a "one-party consent" state).

What Should You Do if You Have Concerns About Surveillance Cameras?

If you feel that a security camera invades your privacy or is improperly placed, you have rights and options:

• Request more information or removal. Write to your landlord or property manager and ask for details about the camera's location, purpose, and data retention.
• Document your concern. Take notes and photographs if you believe a camera is in a prohibited area (such as directed into your apartment).
• Refer to your lease. Some leases specifically mention security protocols. Review your lease for rules on cameras and privacy.
• Contact local authorities. If you believe your privacy is being unlawfully invaded, you can file a complaint with your local law enforcement or seek guidance from your county’s district court housing division.

Is There an Official Form for Privacy Complaints?

North Carolina does not require a specific official state form for surveillance camera complaints. However, renters can use the "Complaint in Summary Ejectment (Form CVM-001)" if a privacy dispute contributes to a landlord-tenant dispute that escalates to an eviction or court action. This form is typically for eviction actions, not specifically for privacy issues. For privacy-only disputes, written communication and, if necessary, filing a report with local law enforcement or the district court is the best route.

• Form name: Complaint in Summary Ejectment (Form CVM-001)
• When to use: If a landlord retaliates against a renter for raising a camera/privacy issue by starting an eviction, use this form to respond in court. Example: "My landlord tried to evict me after I complained about a camera pointing into my window."
• Official source: Download Complaint in Summary Ejectment (CVM-001)

Who Handles Disputes Over Surveillance Cameras?

Residential tenancy disputes in North Carolina are generally handled by North Carolina District Courts in your county. There is no separate tribunal or housing board. Landlord-tenant cases, including those involving privacy issues, fall under their jurisdiction.

FAQs: Surveillance, Privacy, and Renters' Rights in North Carolina

1. Can my landlord put cameras in my apartment building's common hallway?
   Yes, landlords may install security cameras in common hallways for safety, as long as they are not recording inside private living spaces.
2. Do I have to be notified if cameras are installed in my building?
   While North Carolina law does not always require notice, posting signs or providing written notification is a good practice and is often found in leases.
3. Is audio recording allowed in common areas?
   Audio surveillance is restricted and generally not permitted without at least one party's consent under North Carolina law.
4. What do I do if I believe a camera is pointed into my private space?
   Document your concerns, request removal or adjustment from your landlord in writing, and contact local authorities or legal aid if the issue is not resolved.
5. Is there a government agency I can call if my landlord won't address privacy complaints?
   Privacy invasion concerns can be raised to your local police department or your county district court's housing division if part of a broader landlord-tenant dispute.

Key Takeaways for North Carolina Renters

• Surveillance cameras are permitted in apartment common areas in North Carolina, but not in private spaces.
• Audio recording is more restricted than video and generally needs consent.
• If your privacy is being violated, document the situation and use official channels or legal aid for help.

Understanding your rights about security cameras can help you feel safer in your home and know what steps to take if concerns arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Carolina District Courts – Landlord/Tenant Help
• Legal Aid of North Carolina – Free legal help for eligible renters
• North Carolina Department of Justice: Landlord-Tenant Issues
• North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42 (Landlord and Tenant Law)

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1. See N.C. General Statutes, Chapter 42 for complete landlord-tenant law.
2. See North Carolina Electronic Surveillance Act (N.C.G.S. § 15A-286 et seq.).

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