An increasing number of homeowners are fitting video doorbells, drawn by the convenience of seeing and speaking to visitors remotely. But if a neighbour's device records your property, you may have privacy concerns. Under UK law, video doorbells are generally lawful, but they must comply with privacy and data protection regulations.
When is a video doorbell legal?
In the UK, using a video doorbell is generally lawful, but it must comply with privacy and data protection regulations. It is typically not a problem if the doorbell is positioned to record only within the boundaries of someone's property. However, complications can arise if the footage captures public spaces, such as streets and pavements, or extends onto a neighbouring property. Video doorbells fall under the jurisdiction of the UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA).
Home surveillance firm Eufy explained: "The key is proportionality: the camera must serve a legitimate purpose, like home security, without unnecessary intrusion. A standard doorbell camera can be installed without issue if positioned to minimise capturing external areas."
"For example, a doorbell camera angled to focus on your front door is acceptable, while one recording large areas of public space or a neighbour's windows may be considered excessive."
Rules on communal areas
Southampton Council stated that devices must not film or capture images of communal areas. It said: "If you video people in shared spaces, or on public footpaths or streets, this would infringe on privacy rights, which is unlawful according to the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Human Rights Act 1998."
Should your doorbell record people outside your property, you are legally obliged to handle their personal data appropriately. Eufy stated: "If your doorbell captures public or shared spaces, you should carry out a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) to check privacy risks. You also need to let people know recording is in progress, usually with a clear sign, as asking for consent isn't practical."
Any footage captured by your doorbell must be stored securely and deleted once it is no longer required. Sharing recordings is only permissible for legitimate reasons, such as handing them over to the police.
Penalties and how to complain
Those who fail to comply with video doorbell regulations could face fines or even legal proceedings. Both the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and the civil courts hold the power to take action against offenders. The ICO can issue fines, enforcement notices, and orders requiring changes to how cameras are operated. Separately, civil action may also be pursued.
Eufy said: "Neighbours may sue if cameras are intrusive or record their property without consent. An example of the video doorbell rules fines is Fairhurst v Woodard (2021), where a homeowner was found guilty of harassment and data breaches, with damages and costs reported at around £100,000."
If you believe a neighbour's doorbell is pointed towards your property, attempt to speak with them calmly and enquire about when the camera is recording. Eufy recommended requesting to view sample footage to determine whether the camera is monitoring your private area. It added: "If the issue isn't resolved, take photos of the camera's position and note any lack of signage. You can then raise a complaint with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), which has the power to order changes such as moving or adjusting the device. In serious cases, like ongoing harassment, contact the police or seek legal advice about civil action."
