West Virginia Rental Laws: Surveillance Cameras in Common Areas

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections West Virginia published June 21, 2025 Flag of West Virginia

Many renters in West Virginia notice surveillance cameras in their apartment or multi-unit building’s hallways, laundry rooms, or parking lots. This guide explains what state law says about security cameras in rental common areas, your privacy rights, and what you can do if you feel your rights have been violated.

Are Surveillance Cameras Allowed in Shared Spaces?

In West Virginia, there is no state law that specifically prohibits landlords from installing visible security cameras in shared or common areas of residential properties. Common areas can include:

  • Building entrances and lobbies
  • Hallways and stairwells
  • Laundry rooms
  • Parking lots and garages
  • Recreation or mail rooms

However, landlords may not place cameras in private areas where tenants reasonably expect privacy, such as inside apartments, or in shared bathrooms and locker rooms. Secret or hidden recording is not allowed in such private spaces under the West Virginia Code (West Virginia Code § 55-7-9 on the right to privacy)1.

Your Privacy Rights as a Renter

While landlords have a legitimate reason to maintain safety, your right to privacy is still protected. Visible security cameras are generally acceptable in common areas, but renters can object if cameras intrude into private units or record private activities.

Your landlord must never install recording devices inside your rental unit or in shared bathrooms. If you suspect this, document what you find and seek legal advice.

When Do Cameras Cross the Line?

Surveillance in common spaces is allowed, but placing cameras in a way that captures images inside your apartment or bedroom is not permitted. West Virginia’s privacy laws generally support a person’s right to be free from "unreasonable intrusion." If a camera points through your window or records your front door's interior, this may violate your privacy rights.

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Notification Requirements for Cameras

While West Virginia does not require landlords to notify tenants before installing cameras in shared spaces, best practices suggest notifying residents for transparency and safety. If your lease mentions surveillance or you receive a notice, read it carefully. For questions, contact your landlord in writing and document the conversation.

What If You Have Concerns?

If you feel a camera invades your privacy or is being misused, here is what you can do:

  • Document where cameras are placed and what they record (photos are helpful).
  • Request information in writing from your landlord about the purpose and use of the surveillance cameras.
  • If you believe cameras record inside your apartment or shared bathrooms, contact the West Virginia Magistrate Court, which handles landlord-tenant disputes.

The relevant state law guiding landlord and tenant relationships is the West Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act2.

Filing a Formal Complaint

If a disagreement cannot be resolved through discussion with your landlord, you can file a complaint with your local magistrate court. While West Virginia does not have a statewide renter complaint form, you can use the "Civil Complaint" form to file an action concerning landlord-tenant issues, including privacy violations:

Consider documenting communication with your landlord before proceeding legally. This may strengthen your case if privacy violations are found.

Relevant Laws and Where to Get Legal Help

To sum up, renters in West Virginia have the right to safe and reasonably private living environments, and landlords may only place cameras in shared public spaces not intended for exclusive tenant use.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Are landlords allowed to put surveillance cameras in hallways or laundry rooms?
    Yes. West Virginia law allows visible cameras in common areas like hallways, lobbies, stairwells, mail rooms, and laundry facilities, as long as they do not invade private spaces.
  2. Do I have to be notified if cameras are installed?
    There is no specific notification requirement in West Virginia, but landlords should act transparently. Ask your landlord for details if you notice new cameras.
  3. Can a landlord install a camera inside my apartment or in a bathroom?
    No. Cameras are not allowed in private areas such as inside your apartment, bedrooms, or shared bathrooms. This may violate your right to privacy under West Virginia law.
  4. How do I file a complaint if my landlord invades my privacy with a camera?
    Document the issue, try to resolve it with your landlord, and if unsuccessful, file a Civil Complaint (Form SCA-M207A) with your local Magistrate Court.
  5. Where can I find official landlord-tenant laws for West Virginia?
    You can review the West Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for all relevant regulations and rights.

Key Takeaways for Renters

  • Surveillance cameras are allowed in common areas but not in private living spaces.
  • Your privacy is protected by state law—contact the courts if you believe your rights are violated.
  • To formally address camera misuse, file a Civil Complaint (SCA-M207A) with the Magistrate Court.

If you have camera-related concerns, document your observations, talk to your landlord, and use official resources for help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. See: West Virginia Code § 55-7-9 (Right to privacy)
  2. See: West Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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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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