Are Hidden Cameras Legal in Rhode Island Rental Homes?

Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Rhode Island published June 21, 2025 Flag of Rhode Island

As a renter in Rhode Island, protecting your privacy is essential. With growing concerns over hidden cameras in rental properties, it's important to know when, if ever, a landlord can install or monitor devices inside your home. This article explains Rhode Island law on hidden cameras, outlines your privacy rights, and provides resources if you suspect your privacy has been violated.

Understanding Your Privacy Rights as a Rhode Island Renter

Rhode Island law treats a tenant's right to privacy with care. Landlords cannot intrude unreasonably on this privacy once you have possession of the unit. This means, generally, your landlord cannot enter your home or install surveillance equipment without notice or a valid reason.[1]

Are Hidden Cameras Allowed in Rhode Island Rentals?

In Rhode Island, installing hidden cameras inside rented homes without a tenant's consent is not legal. State privacy laws and criminal statutes specifically prohibit recording video or audio of individuals in a place where they have a "reasonable expectation of privacy," such as a bathroom, bedroom, or living room.[1][2]

  • Landlords may not install hidden or visible cameras inside your private living space.
  • Security cameras may be used in common areas, like building entrances or hallways, but must not intrude on your private life.
  • Audio recording is especially protected under both state and federal law—it is illegal to record conversations without the knowledge and consent of those being recorded.[2]

If a landlord installs hidden cameras in your living area, they may face both criminal penalties and civil liability.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Rhode Island Rental?

Your landlord has the right to enter your unit only under certain conditions:

  • To make repairs or improvements
  • To show the apartment to prospective renters or buyers
  • In case of emergencies

According to Rhode Island's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must give tenants at least two days’ notice before entering, except in emergencies.[1]

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If You Suspect a Hidden Camera in Your Rental

A feeling of being watched without your knowledge can be distressing. If you suspect there is a hidden camera in your rental, consider these steps:

  • Do a visual inspection of vents, smoke detectors, clocks, and other electronics for anything unusual.
  • Raise your concerns in writing to your landlord or property manager, keeping a copy for your records.
  • If you find a device, do not tamper with it. Instead, take photos and document your discovery.
  • Consider contacting local law enforcement and filing a formal complaint—it is a crime to record tenants without their consent in private spaces.
  • You may also file a complaint or application with the state’s tenant tribunal if your privacy rights have been violated (more below).
Rhode Island renters: Your right to privacy is protected both by state law and as a core part of your rental agreement. If you ever feel uncomfortable about surveillance, take action quickly and consider seeking support.

Relevant Official Forms for Renters

  • Complaint Form – Rhode Island District Court (Landlord/Tenant): Used when a renter wishes to start a legal complaint, such as reporting an illegal entry or privacy violation. Download from the Rhode Island Judiciary official website. Practical example: If you believe your landlord illegally installed a camera, you can use this form to file a court claim for your privacy rights.

Where Tenancy Disputes Are Handled in Rhode Island

Residential tenancy cases, including privacy complaints and illegal entry by landlords, are decided by the Rhode Island District Court, Landlord-Tenant Division. Learn more about submission rules and procedures on their official landlord-tenant information page.

Frequently Asked Questions: Privacy & Cameras in Rentals

  1. Can my landlord install cameras in shared hallways of an apartment building?
    Yes, landlords may install cameras in shared or common areas for security. However, these cameras should not record inside private spaces or be positioned to monitor into your unit.[1]
  2. Is it illegal for a landlord to record audio inside my rental?
    Yes. Both Rhode Island and federal law prohibit audio recording in private areas without consent.[2]
  3. What should I do if I find a hidden camera in my apartment?
    Document the discovery, do not tamper with the device, inform the authorities, and consider filing a complaint with the Rhode Island District Court using the official form.[1][2]
  4. Can I refuse access if my landlord tries to enter without proper notice?
    Yes, unless there is a genuine emergency. Rhode Island law requires at least two days’ notice for entry for non-urgent matters.[1]

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Rhode Island General Laws Title 34, Chapter 18 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
  2. Rhode Island General Laws § 11-35-21 – Video Voyeurism Law

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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