Cameras that stay within your home's boundary
If a home camera only captures your own property, data protection law generally does not apply to it. The picture changes when a camera also records a shared driveway, a neighbour's property or the public street. The ICO's guidance says data protection law then applies, so you need to be able to justify the recording, put up signs saying CCTV is in use, delete footage regularly and respond if someone asks for a copy of footage they appear in.
Businesses have clearer duties
A business using CCTV is processing personal data and needs a clear reason for recording, such as preventing theft or protecting staff. You should be able to explain that reason, keep footage secure, limit who can view it and delete it when it is no longer needed. Signs telling people that recording is in use are expected.
Point cameras where they are needed
Careful positioning solves most privacy problems before they start. Many cameras let you mask parts of the image, blocking out a neighbour's window or garden while still covering your own door. Choosing the right lens and angle avoids capturing more than you need.
Be cautious with audio
Many cameras can record sound, but audio recording is considered far more intrusive than video. It is hard to justify for most homes and businesses, so it is usually best switched off unless there is a specific and strong reason for it.
People can ask for their footage
Someone captured by a business CCTV system, or by a home camera that records beyond the property boundary, can make a subject access request and ask for a copy of the footage of them. You normally need to respond within one month. If the footage shows other people, you may need to blur or otherwise protect them before releasing it.
Retention and security matter too
Keep footage for as long as you need it and no longer. Protect the recorder and app accounts with strong passwords, and keep the system updated. If an incident occurs, export the relevant clip promptly so it is not overwritten before you need it.
What to do next
Look at each camera's live view and check whether it captures anything beyond your boundary. If it does, adjust the angle or add privacy masking, and for a business, make sure signs are in place and someone knows how to handle a request for footage.
Symnetrix plans CCTV coverage to protect what matters without recording more than necessary, including camera placement, privacy masking and secure local storage. Learn more about cctv installation in Hastings and East Sussex, or contact Symnetrix to discuss your setup.