A video doorbell is legal to fit and use. The questions start when it can see beyond your own front step. Video doorbell law in the UK comes down to one thing: what the camera captures.
If it only sees your property
If the camera covers only your own door, path and garden, data protection law does not apply to you. This is known as the household exemption.
If it sees the street or a neighbour
Many doorbells face the pavement, the road or the house opposite. If yours records people outside the boundary of your home, data protection law applies. You are allowed to do it, and you take on some duties:
- Have a clear reason for recording, such as protecting your home.
- Capture no more than you need.
- Let people know. A small sign is enough.
- Keep footage secure and delete it when you no longer need it.
- If someone asks for footage of themselves, you usually need to provide it within one month.
Sound is the sensitive part
Most complaints between neighbours are about audio. Some doorbells pick up conversations a long way from the door. If yours lets you turn audio recording off, or reduce its range, that is the simplest way to avoid a problem.
Six ways to keep it simple
- Angle the doorbell so it looks at your path and not next door’s window.
- Use privacy zones to mask areas outside your boundary.
- Set motion detection to cover your own property only.
- Turn off audio recording if you do not need it.
- Tell your neighbours you are fitting one.
- Delete old clips regularly.
Flats and rented homes
If you rent or own a leasehold flat, check with your landlord or managing agent before fixing anything to the door frame or a shared hallway.
What if a neighbour complains?
Talk to them first and show them what the camera sees. Most worries end there. If you cannot agree, the Information Commissioner’s Office has guidance for both sides.
We fit video doorbells with the view and privacy zones set up for your home. See your price in 6 quick steps.