Washington Renters’ Privacy: Security Cameras in Common Spaces

In Washington, renters often have questions about the use of surveillance cameras in apartment building common areas. Knowing your privacy rights and what landlords can and cannot do under state law helps keep your living environment both safe and respectful. This article breaks down the key laws, your privacy protections, and what to do if you have concerns about surveillance in your building.

Understanding Surveillance Camera Laws in Washington

Surveillance cameras are increasingly common in apartment complexes and multi-family housing. In Washington, the law seeks to balance tenant privacy with landlords’ interest in safety and security. Let’s unpack the most important rules for renters and landlords.

Where Cameras Are Allowed

• Common areas: Landlords are generally allowed to install security cameras in shared spaces such as hallways, lobbies, laundry rooms, parking garages, stairwells, and entrances.
• Private areas: It is strictly illegal to install cameras in places where tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside apartments, bathrooms, or inside individual storage spaces.

Washington follows a strong standard for privacy thanks to its state constitution and privacy laws. Landlords must avoid recording audio without consent—Washington is a “two-party consent” state under RCW 9.73.030.

What Does ‘Reasonable Expectation of Privacy’ Mean?

This legal concept protects areas where you would expect not to be watched or recorded. In apartment buildings, your unit and bathrooms are always private. Common areas, on the other hand, may have surveillance for security, as long as it’s not excessive or targeting individual renters.

Notice Requirements & Landlord Obligations

• Notice: Although Washington law does not explicitly require landlords to notify tenants about security cameras in common areas, it is good practice to do so and some cities—such as Seattle—may have additional requirements through local ordinances.
  See Seattle rules for building security equipment
• Landlords cannot use cameras to harass tenants or violate anti-discrimination laws under the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.

Can I Ask My Landlord to Remove or Disable a Camera?

Yes, if you believe a camera is infringing on your privacy or targeting your activities, you can formally request removal or relocation.

• Step 1: Document the camera's location and when you noticed it.
• Step 2: Write a written request to your landlord. If the concern isn’t resolved, you may file a complaint with your city housing authority.

Official Forms and Complaints

• Washington State Attorney General’s Office Consumer Complaint Form (Online Form):
  Use this if you feel your privacy rights have been violated by your landlord’s use of cameras. Example: If a camera is placed outside your front door in a way that targets your activities, file a complaint here.
• City of Seattle Rental Housing Code Complaint Form (Download PDF):
  If you live in Seattle and believe a camera violates housing or privacy ordinances, use this form to officially notify city inspectors.

The Washington Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Program provides guidance on filing privacy complaints and resolving disputes.

What If a Camera Records Audio?

Under Washington law, it is illegal to record audio conversations without the consent of all parties involved. Cameras with recording microphones in common areas require clear signage and consent. If you suspect audio is being recorded without permission, you should file a complaint with the authorities listed above.

Your Rights Under Washington Law

• Tenant privacy is protected: Cameras cannot be used in private living spaces or bathrooms.
• Harassment or discrimination is prohibited: Surveillance must not target or single out individuals based on personal characteristics or protected status.
• Retaliation is illegal: Landlords cannot punish tenants for complaining about surveillance abuses (RCW 59.18.240).

The main legislation governing these issues is the Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RCW 59.18). It covers privacy, discrimination, and your ability to make complaints or requests to your landlord.

FAQ: Surveillance Cameras in Washington Renters' Common Areas

1. Can my landlord use cameras inside my apartment in Washington?
   No. It is illegal for landlords to install or operate cameras anywhere inside your private rental unit, including inside doorways.
2. Do landlords have to tell tenants about cameras in common areas?
   While state law does not always require notice, it is considered good practice and may be required by local city code. Check your lease and ask your landlord or local city housing office.
3. Can cameras in common areas record sound in Washington?
   No, not without the consent of everyone being recorded, as Washington is a two-party consent state for audio. Signs must be posted if audio is being recorded.
4. What if I believe I am being singled out by a camera?
   You should document the placement and talk to your landlord. If not resolved, contact your local housing authority or file a complaint with the Washington Attorney General’s Office.
5. Is it legal to have cameras covering shared laundry or mailrooms?
   Generally yes, as these are considered common areas, but the cameras must not secretly record audio or invade individual privacy.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Washington Renters

• Landlords can install cameras in shared hallways, entrances, and common areas, but never inside your apartment or bathrooms.
• Recording audio in any space requires the consent of everyone present.
• If you feel your privacy is violated, take action by documenting issues and seeking help from officials or city authorities.

Protect your privacy and know your rights when it comes to surveillance in your rental building. Clear communication and understanding the law are your best tools.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (full text)
• Washington Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Program — guidance and complaint support
• Renting in Seattle: City of Seattle Renter Support
• WA Dept. of Commerce: Tenants’ Rights
• For rental disputes, the official tribunal for Washington is your Washington State Courts, typically District or Superior Court

---

1. Washington Residential Landlord-Tenant Act: RCW 59.18
2. Washington Privacy in Communications: RCW 9.73.030
3. Seattle Rental Housing Code and Guidelines: SDCI: Security Equipment
4. WA AG Landlord-Tenant Complaints: Washington Attorney General
5. WA Tenant Rights: Dept. of Commerce

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