Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

Resident-installed security camera OK outside apartment?

Can a resident of an apartment (multi-unit walk-up, not highrise) install a security camera outside of the rented apartment (i.e., front of the building), looking down the main walk, without landlord permission? What recourse does the tenant have if the landlord requires that it be removed?


Asked on 6/29/07, 2:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert L. Bennett Law offices of Robert L. Bennett

Re: Resident-installed security camera OK outside apartment?

Interesting question! I have been doing this a long time, and it is rare to find something new.

I know of no actual law that covers this, but the general law is that you rent the entire premises, and are entitled to use the premises, unless you are damaging something, committing a criminal act, or creating a "nuisance".

I would ask the landlord if there is any objection.

As to recourse, you may wish to have an attorney write a letter to landlord, if landlord refuses to permit the camera, or put it up anyway, and let him try to evict you, which means you'll be letting a judge decide.

The law has been for many centuries that the tenant is entitled to "quiet enjoyment" of the leased premises. Sorry, but I can't give a more definitive answer.

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Answered on 6/29/07, 4:00 pm


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