Ohio Renters’ Rights: Surveillance Cameras in Common Areas

Security cameras in apartment hallways, laundry rooms, or shared entryways are increasingly common in Ohio. But many renters wonder: What are the laws about surveillance cameras in these common areas? Knowing your rights under Ohio law helps you protect your privacy and address concerns with your landlord, especially if you feel uncomfortable or your privacy feels invaded.

Surveillance Cameras in Common Areas: What Ohio Law Says

Ohio recognizes a renter’s right to reasonable privacy, but landlords also have the right to protect property and residents’ safety. Currently, Ohio landlord-tenant law does not have specific statutes about installing or recording with surveillance cameras in shared (common) areas of apartment buildings, but other privacy and landlord-tenant rules still apply.^[1]

• It is generally legal for landlords to install cameras in public/common areas (like lobbies, hallways, entrances, or laundry rooms).
• Cameras cannot be placed where renters can reasonably expect privacy, such as inside apartments or any shared bathroom.
• Audio recording is more strictly regulated than video; surreptitious audio may violate Ohio’s wiretapping laws unless at least one party consents.^[2]

Do Landlords Have to Notify Tenants About Cameras?

Ohio law does not specifically require landlords to tell you if they are installing security cameras in common areas. However:

• If cameras are added after your lease signing, many landlords will provide notice as a courtesy or under building policy.
• Cameras must not record inside your private unit without your written consent.

Your Right to Privacy and Safety

Ohio’s standard lease obligations require that landlords keep rentals safe and in good repair. Cameras in public spaces can help address vandalism or theft but should not interfere with your basic right to residential privacy.

How to Address Concerns About Surveillance

If you are worried about a new or existing camera in your building, you have options for addressing your concerns:

• Check your lease: Review if there is any written agreement about surveillance cameras.
• Ask your landlord/property manager: Put your concerns or questions in writing and request a response about camera locations and footage access.
• Contact local law enforcement if you believe a camera violates criminal laws—such as recording in private areas.
• File a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission if you believe recording is used to harass or discriminate against you.

Applicable Forms and How to Use Them

• Complaint Form – Ohio Civil Rights Commission
  Complaint of Discrimination
  When to Use: If you believe surveillance in common areas is being used in a discriminatory way or to harass certain tenants, you can file a discrimination charge online. For example, if you notice cameras only point towards units leased by a certain race or group, this form can help start an official investigation.

Be sure to provide detailed information and, if possible, evidence of how the use of cameras is discriminatory.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Ohio?

Ohio civil courts, especially in the small claims division, generally handle landlord-tenant disputes. For discrimination or privacy violations related to protected statuses, the Ohio Civil Rights Commission investigates official complaints. Tenant-landlord information and self-help resources can be found at the Ohio Judicial System website.

Key Legislation

Relevant legal protections for renters are found in the Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321: Landlords and Tenants and, regarding privacy, general criminal statutes under wiretapping and invasion of privacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord put cameras in the hallways or laundry room of my apartment building?
   Yes, landlords in Ohio are generally allowed to install cameras in public or shared spaces, like hallways, lobbies, or laundry rooms, to protect property and resident safety, so long as cameras do not infringe on your right to privacy inside your unit or bathrooms.
2. Does my landlord need to notify me before installing cameras in common areas?
   Ohio law does not require written notice for installing surveillance in common areas. However, best practice (and some city ordinances) encourage landlords to inform tenants. Check your lease for any rules on this.
3. Is it legal for landlords to record audio in common areas?
   Audio recording is much more restricted than video. Under Ohio law, at least one party must consent to being recorded for audio. Many security cameras record video only. If you believe audio is being recorded without approval, contact local law enforcement.
4. What should I do if I think a camera is invading my privacy?
   Document the situation, contact your landlord with your concerns, and, if necessary, file a complaint with the local authorities or the Ohio Civil Rights Commission.
5. Are there forms I can use to complain about misuse of cameras?
   Yes. The Ohio Civil Rights Commission Complaint Form may be used if you believe surveillance is being used in a discriminatory way.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Civil Rights Commission: File discrimination complaints or get information about fair housing and privacy rights.
• Ohio Courts Directory: Find your local municipal or small claims court for rental disputes.
• Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321: Landlords and Tenants: Complete rental law for Ohio residents.
• Ohio Legal Help – Housing: Free tenant guides for Ohio renters.

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1. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 (Landlords and Tenants)
2. Ohio Revised Code 2933.52: Wiretapping Law

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