Video doorbells are legal in the UK but must comply with data protection rules and only capture footage within the owner's property boundaries. If a neighbour's doorbell camera records your property or public spaces without proper compliance, you can complain to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).
First steps and ICO complaints
If you're worried about a neighbour's doorbell camera recording your property, start with a friendly conversation to discuss the camera's field of view. Home security company Eufy advises: "Take photos of the camera's position and note any lack of signage."
The ICO has the power to order changes such as moving or adjusting the device if it captures property or public spaces without proper compliance.
Data protection requirements
Eufy explained: "The key is proportionality: the camera must serve a legitimate purpose, like home security, without unnecessary intrusion."
Owners must carry out a Data Protection Impact Assessment if their cameras capture public spaces and display clear signage to inform people of recording. Any footage must be stored securely and deleted when no longer needed.
Penalties for breaching rules
Breaching video doorbell regulations can result in significant financial penalties, with one landmark case seeing damages and costs of around £100,000.
