Q: Can my roommate put cameras up in a common/shared space in my apartment?
I have 3 other roommates and 1 of them put up a camera in our living room but me and 1 other roommate did not consent to being recorded. Is that legal?
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A:
In most places, putting up a camera in shared or common spaces without the consent of all parties can be a legal gray area. Privacy laws often differ by state or country, but many jurisdictions have laws that protect individuals' reasonable expectation of privacy, even in shared spaces like an apartment living room. Recording people without their consent may violate those laws, especially if two roommates did not agree to it.
It's important to talk to your roommate about the camera and explain your concerns. A respectful conversation might help resolve the issue without further conflict. You could suggest alternative security measures that everyone can agree on.
If the roommate refuses to take down the camera, you may want to research local privacy laws or reach out to the apartment management for clarity on the rules. Depending on where you live, you might have legal grounds to object to being recorded in your own living space without consent.
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