With the rise of smart home technology, video doorbells like Ring and Nest have become a common security feature for homeowners. These devices offer added safety and convenience, allowing residents to monitor visitors and deliveries in real time. However, in community associations where shared spaces and privacy considerations come into play, video doorbells can present unique challenges.

Balancing individual security with community privacy and governance standards is essential for condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community associations. Below are several key considerations for board members, property managers, and community leaders to address regarding video doorbells including privacy concerns, rules/regulations, surveillance limitations, and law enforcement access.


Privacy Concerns & Neighboring Homes

Video doorbells are generally designed to monitor activity outside a residence. But their recording capabilities can sometimes extend beyond a homeowner’s property. This raises concerns about privacy, particularly when a doorbell camera captures:

  • Neighboring front doors, windows, or backyards
  • Shared driveways, hallways, or pathways used by multiple residents
  • Community common areas such as pools, courtyards, or fitness centers

Associations should consider adopting policies that balance security benefits with resident privacy. Homeowners should be encouraged to adjust camera angles to limit unnecessary surveillance of their neighbors’ property while still monitoring their own entryways.


Association Restrictions & Policies

Every community operates under a set of governing documents that outline permitted modifications to association units and common areas. Boards may consider establishing video doorbell association policies that address:

  • Placement restrictions – Defining where video doorbells can be installed to prevent intrusion into common areas or neighboring properties
  • Visibility guidelines – Limiting excessive or overly conspicuous surveillance equipment that may impact community aesthetics and architectural guidelines
  • Recording limitations – Ensuring that video doorbells are used strictly for personal security and do not infringe on community spaces or private residences

By proactively setting guidelines, associations can help homeowners utilize security devices without violating community standards or creating disputes among fellow neighbors.


Common Area Surveillance Concerns

A major consideration for community associations is whether video doorbells violate rules regarding unauthorized surveillance of common areas, including:

  • Shared hallways and entryways in a condominium building
  • Community amenities and shared spaces like clubhouses, fitness centers, or pools
  • Community sidewalks, bike paths, and courtyards
  • Recreational areas including a playground or court (ex. basketball, tennis, pickleball)

If governing documents prohibit individual owners from installing cameras that monitor these areas, boards may need to clarify restrictions and ensure enforcement.

Alternatively, associations may choose to implement their own surveillance systems in common spaces to provide security while maintaining compliance with privacy regulations. However, this introduces several logical and legal issues including recording storage, retention, and access, and security.


Legal Resource

As video doorbells become more prevalent in community associations, it’s important for boards to strike a balance between individual security and community-wide privacy standards. There are also considerations regarding law enforcement requests for video footage in criminal investigations.

Implementing clear policies, addressing privacy concerns, and ensuring compliance with governing documents can help minimize disputes while allowing residents to feel safe in their homes. For associations seeking guidance on video surveillance policies, consulting legal counsel can help ensure that regulations align with state laws and community governance.

Questions about video doorbells in your community association, privacy concerns, or other legal issues? Do not hesitate to call 855-537-0500 or visit www.ksnlaw.com.

Since 1983, KSN has been a legal resource for condominium, homeowner, and townhome associations. Additionally, we represent clients in real estate transactions, collections, landlord/tenant issues, and property tax appeals. We represent thousands of clients and community associations throughout the US with offices in several states including Florida, Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.

 

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