Are Hidden Cameras Allowed in Oregon Rentals?

Oregon renters enjoy clear rights to privacy in their homes and should know what’s legal regarding hidden cameras or surveillance in rental properties. Understanding state law on this topic protects your security and empowers you if privacy concerns arise during your tenancy.

Oregon Privacy Laws: Your Rights as a Renter

Oregon law protects renters’ privacy and restricts landlord entry and surveillance. Your home—whether an apartment or house—is your private space, and landlords cannot surveil it at will. If you’re wondering whether hidden cameras in your rental are legal, it’s important to know the law distinguishes between common areas (like shared hallways) and private spaces (like bedrooms and bathrooms).

Can Landlords Use Hidden Cameras Inside Your Rental?

According to Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 90 – Residential Landlord and Tenant, landlords are not allowed to enter your rental unit without proper notice, except in emergencies. Similarly, placing hidden cameras or recording devices in places where you have a reasonable expectation of privacy—such as inside your living room, bedroom, or bathroom—is generally prohibited.^[1]

• Inside your unit: Recording or monitoring tenants without consent is a violation of Oregon privacy law.
• Common/shared areas: Landlords may install visible security cameras in common spaces, but cannot record audio without consent.
• Notice: If any monitoring equipment is present or installed, landlords should inform tenants in advance.

What Does Oregon Law Say About Recording?

Oregon is a “one-party consent” state for audio recordings, meaning at least one party involved in the conversation must consent. However, landlords are not permitted to record renters’ private activities within their rented unit. Installing cameras or microphones without your knowledge inside your home would typically violate ORS 165.540: Obtaining Contents of Communications.^[2]

What to Do If You Suspect Hidden Cameras

If you suspect unauthorized surveillance in your rental property, you have several options:

• Document: Take photos or videos of suspected devices. Save any correspondence with your landlord.
• Write to your landlord: Clearly state your concerns and request the removal of any surveillance devices found inside your unit.
• Contact local law enforcement: For hidden cameras in private spaces, file a police report if you believe your privacy rights were violated.
• File a formal complaint: Reach out to Oregon’s tenant-landlord authorities for assistance or mediation.

Official Forms and How to Submit a Complaint

The State of Oregon does not have a specific official form for reporting hidden cameras in rentals but does offer resources if you need to file a general landlord complaint:

• Consumer Complaint Form (Oregon Department of Justice)
  This form is used for reporting unfair landlord practices or privacy violations. Example: "A renter discovers a hidden surveillance camera in their bedroom and wants to report it to the Attorney General." Submit a complaint online here.
• Residential Landlord and Tenant Law Information (Oregon Judicial Department)
  Reference material for taking formal legal steps such as small claims for damages or a restraining order in severe cases. Find resources here.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in Oregon?

Most residential tenancy disputes in Oregon are addressed through local courts and the Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord and Tenant Information portal for Small Claims or civil filings. For guidance and mediation, renters can also contact housing authorities or the Oregon Department of Justice.

Relevant Oregon Rental Legislation

Key statutes protecting your privacy include:

• Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 90 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (covers entry, notice, and rental rights)
• ORS 165.540: Obtaining Contents of Communications (law surrounding consent for recording)

You can read the full Oregon landlord-tenant law online for further details.

FAQs for Renters

1. Can my landlord place cameras in the hallway or entrance?
   Visible security cameras may be installed in shared hallways or entryways, but these should not record audio without tenant consent.
2. What if I find a hidden camera in my bedroom or bathroom?
   This is generally illegal. Document it, notify your landlord in writing, and contact local authorities or file a complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice.
3. Can my landlord enter my rental to check on or install cameras?
   Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies, and cannot enter just to install surveillance without your knowledge.
4. Are nanny cams or cameras installed by roommates allowed?
   Other tenants or visitors should not install cameras in your private areas without your permission.
5. Where can I get help with privacy disputes in my rental?
   Contact the Oregon Judicial Department, Oregon Department of Justice, or local tenant advocacy organizations for support and next steps.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

• Hidden cameras in private rental spaces are almost always illegal without your knowledge or consent.
• Visible surveillance is sometimes allowed in common areas but cannot include audio without consent.
• If you find unauthorized devices, document, report, and know that Oregon law is on your side.

If in doubt, consult official sources or tenant support services for guidance specific to your situation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord and Tenant Information: Guides for disputes, small claims, and tenant protections.
• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Tenant Resources: Housing support, eviction prevention, and legal help.
• Oregon Department of Justice – File a Consumer Complaint: Report illegal surveillance or unfair practices.
• Local Legal Aid: Find no- or low-cost tenant advice at Oregon Law Help.

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1. Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 90 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. ORS 165.540 – Obtaining Contents of Communications

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