Can my landlord install surveillance cameras in common areas?

What the Law Says

New York law permits video surveillance in common areas of rental properties, but places strict limits on where and how it may be used—especially to protect tenant privacy.

Under New York law, landlords may install video-only surveillance cameras in common areas such as lobbies, hallways, laundry rooms, parking garages, and building entrances. These areas are not considered private, so tenants have no reasonable expectation of privacy there.

However, recording audio is illegal without consent under NY Penal Law § 250.00, which defines eavesdropping as 'the intentional overhearing or recording of a conversation or discussion by mechanical, electronic, or other means.' Video-only recording does not violate this statute — unless it captures sound.

Cameras are strictly prohibited in locations where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy — including bathrooms, changing rooms, bedrooms, and inside individual apartments. Installing cameras in such places may violate both criminal law and civil privacy rights.

Statutory Text

Eavesdropping is the intentional overhearing or recording of a conversation or discussion by mechanical, electronic, or other means.

— NY Penal Law § 250.00 — Definition of eavesdropping

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