We received these questions about the use of security cameras and privacy.
Table of Contents:
- QUESTION: Do I need to seek approval prior to installation if a camera does not change the appearance of the lot but is part of a fixed doorbell?
- QUESTION: Security Camera and Privacy: Is the Strata Corporation required to provide approval?
Question: Do I need to seek approval prior to installation if a camera does not change the appearance of the lot but is part of a fixed doorbell?
My front door faces my neighbours front door (about 30ft apart). A doorbell with a camera has been installed which faces the direction of my front door. I feel my personal space is being invaded.
I have seen the Q&A below but there is no reference to a fixed doorbell which includes a camera, as opposed to a separate CCTV camera. Does there still have to be approved prior to installation if the camera does not change the appearance of the lot?
Answer: The real issue is the camera, not how it is housed.
Our article regarding cameras would still be applicable as the real issue is the camera, not how it is housed.
We would suggest you raise this at the AGM and enquire if it has been approved, as the camera could be recording private areas.
Tyson D’Sylva SA Area Development Manager Ace Body Corporate Management P: 08 8342 1544 E: tyson.d@acebodycorp.com.au
This post appears in Strata News #389.
Question: Security Camera and Privacy: Is the Strata Corporation required to provide approval?
I write to ask you what the current strata laws are in SA regarding the use of an outdoor security camera and privacy.
My neighbour has installed an outdoor dome security camera and I can’t see in which direction the camera is pointing.
I also do not know if the camera is active or passive or the range of the camera.
I want to know what my rights are because I do not want to be filmed. It is an invasion of my privacy and makes me feel uncomfortable.
Can you provide me with the current law regarding the installation and use of active and / or passive outdoor cameras for strata units in SA.
Does the installation of outdoor cameras require the strata corporation’s prior approval because our corporation did not approve the installation of outdoor cameras at a previous meeting?
Answer: Installing security cameras would require approval from the corporation
Many people choose to live in a body corporate because it gives a greater sense of community and security.
Depending on what security is to be installed eg roller shutters, security screens, alarms, CCTV etc, will normally require some level of approval and it is our understating installing cameras would require approval from the corporation as it may on some level cause a visual change from the original aesthetics of the development.
During this approval seeking process questions asked from your reader can be answered. As to your rights regarding this, it is best to start at Office of the Australian Information Commissioner: Surveillance and monitoring: What can I do about my neighbour’s security camera?
All your queries about security camera and privacy should be brought up with the committee of the corporation (if you have one) or, failing that, seek your professional manager’s advice.
The more you can discuss the issue with all involved the better, as you don’t want to feel imprisoned in your own castle!
Tyson D’Sylva Ace Body Corporate Management E: tyson.d@acebodycorp.com.au P: 08 8342 1544
This post appears in Strata News #106.
Have a question about the use of security cameras and privacy or something to add to the article? Leave a comment below.
Embed Read next:- SA : Q&A Do We Need To Supply Our Tenant’s Details to Strata?
- NSW: Q&A Handling a False Accusation of Privacy Breach
This article is not intended to be personal advice and you should not rely on it as a substitute for any form of advice.
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