I own a 2 family building , and have had disputes between current tenants. I want to install a security system with remote video monitoring . Does any one know the law and if permits are required to install?

Thanks,
Rob


What's Your Take? Leave a Comment

  1. As someone licensed to install fire and security systems, I can tell you there are no permits required as it is a low voltage system (however the install must meet code). Video is legal in all common areas. Audio is permitted if conspicuous signage is posted.

  2. Highly recommend a video system if you have problems with tenants. From experience, I can tell you that not only are they helpful (if not instrumental) should you end up in Housing Court, they are a serious deterrent to drug dealing, false harassment accusations, mail theft, vandalism and other behavior. No permit is required for video monitoring in common areas. Audio recording, however, is not legal in common areas unless you are part of the conversation. Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to monitor private space – that’s creepy anyway. Again, talk to your lawyer, but I can tell you that cameras have solved a number of problems with bad tenants.

  3. Wouldn’t it be cheaper not to renew the lease of the offensive party(ies)? Say you have a camera in the hallway and catch one of your tenants spitting on their neighbors’ mailbox, then what?

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