Are Hidden Cameras Legal in Ohio Rental Properties?

As a renter in Ohio, you may have concerns about your privacy—especially when it comes to the use of surveillance devices like hidden cameras. Understanding your rights about hidden cameras in Ohio rental homes is essential to protect your privacy and peace of mind. This guide breaks down the relevant Ohio laws, your landlord's obligations, and practical steps you can take if you suspect unlawful surveillance.

Ohio Laws on Cameras in Rental Properties

Ohio law recognizes a renter's right to privacy within their home. Landlords cannot secretly monitor tenants in areas where privacy is expected, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, or living rooms. However, common areas outside your unit (like hallways and entrances) may be monitored or recorded, as long as it does not intrude on personal privacy.

What Does the Law Say?

• Ohio is a "one-party consent" state, meaning at least one person must consent to recorded conversations (Ohio Revised Code Section 2933.52).
• Secretly recording video or audio in areas where you expect privacy is generally illegal unless all parties consent.
• Under the Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321), landlords must respect tenants' right to peaceful enjoyment of their home and cannot harass or invade their privacy.

Hidden cameras inside a tenant's private living space, especially without disclosure, are not allowed under Ohio law.

Landlord Entry and Notification Requirements

Ohio landlords are required to provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering a tenant's rental unit, except in emergencies. This includes for routine inspections, repairs, or showings (Ohio Revised Code Section 5321.04).

A landlord cannot use a hidden camera as a substitute for legally required notice. Placing a surveillance device to monitor you in your home, without disclosure or consent, can be considered a privacy violation and possibly harassment.

If You Discover a Camera

• Ask your landlord about any cameras you find or suspect in your unit.
• If you believe your privacy has been violated, document the evidence (photos, emails, etc.).
• Consider submitting a formal complaint to your local law enforcement and to the proper state tribunal or agency.

Relevant Complaint Forms and How to Use Them

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission Housing Complaint Form
  • When to Use: If you believe your landlord is discriminating against you or violating your privacy rights.
  • How to Use: Complete and submit the form with detailed information about your complaint. For example, if you find a hidden camera in your bedroom, give dates, device location, and communications.
  • File a Complaint with the OCRC
• Complaint to Local Law Enforcement
  • When to Use: If you discover a hidden camera, especially in private areas, contact your local police department. Surreptitious video or audio recording may be a crime.
  • How to Use: Call or visit your local police station. Provide documentation and explain what you found in your rental unit.

Ohio Tribunal for Tenant Issues

In Ohio, residential tenancy disputes are handled through the Municipal or County Courts in your location. These courts handle landlord-tenant cases, including privacy violations under state law.

Your Rights and Action Steps

As a tenant, you have the right to:

• Live in your rental property free from hidden cameras or other secret surveillance.
• Receive 24 hours' notice before landlord entry, except for emergencies.
• File a formal complaint if you think your rights have been violated.

Most situations can be resolved by communicating with your landlord, but do not hesitate to use official channels if needed.

FAQs for Ohio Renters about Cameras and Privacy

1. Can my landlord install cameras inside my rental unit in Ohio?
   Generally, no. Landlords cannot legally place cameras inside your private rental space without your consent.
2. Is it legal for a landlord to record audio in my home?
   No, recording audio without at least one-party consent is illegal, and private conversations are protected under Ohio law.
3. What should I do if I find a hidden camera in my rental?
   Do not remove it. Document it, contact your landlord, and consider filing complaints with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or contacting local law enforcement.
4. Can cameras be placed in shared spaces?
   Landlords may install visible cameras in shared spaces like hallways, but not inside your private unit or spaces where privacy is expected.
5. Who can I contact for help if I think my privacy has been violated?
   Reach out to local law enforcement, the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, or your area's Municipal or County Court for help.

Key Takeaways for Ohio Renters

• Ohio law prohibits hidden cameras in private rental spaces without consent.
• Landlords must respect your privacy and give proper notice before entering.
• Use official complaint forms and contact authorities if you suspect unlawful surveillance.

You have the right to privacy at home. If you're concerned, there are clear steps and resources to support you.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission – File a Housing Complaint
• Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321)
• Find Your Local Municipal or County Court for Tenant Disputes
• Ohio Revised Code on Intercepting Communications (Section 2933.52)

---

1. Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321)
2. Ohio Revised Code Section 2933.52 – Interception of Communications
3. Ohio Civil Rights Commission Housing Complaint Form
4. Ohio Municipal and County Courts Directory

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations