CCTV cameras and smart doorbells in your home

On this page, you can find information about installing CCTV cameras and smart doorbells in your home, as well as what to do in case of a CCTV or doorbell camera dispute with a neighbour.

Can I install CCTV and/or a smart doorbell in my home?

CCTV and smart doorbells can add extra security to a home, so we understand that some of our customers may choose to install them. We permit customers to install CCTV cameras and/or smart doorbells outside their homes, as long as they use them responsibly and respect their neighbour’s privacy. Such cameras must also be used in accordance with the law. You can find out more about this on the Information Commissioner's Office website.

CCTV and smart doorbell disputes

Using a CCTV camera or smart doorbell is not considered antisocial behaviour or a breach of tenancy, even if neighbours are unhappy about the camera. Disputes over CCTV and doorbell camera use are civil matters, and Selwood Housing will only intervene if there is clear evidence of antisocial behaviour. If you are unhappy about the use of your neighbour’s CCTV camera or smart doorbell, you should follow the guidance on the Information Commissioner's Office website.

Tips and advice for installing CCTV cameras and smart doorbells in your home

When installing a CCTV camera in your home, please follow these guidelines:

• Prevent property damage. Take care to avoid damaging your property during installation. If accidental damage occurs, you should arrange for it to be repaired using materials that match the existing surface. You should also notify us. We may charge for any unrepaired damage. 
• Mount the camera on a suitable surface. Do not mount CCTV cameras on chimneys, flues, flat timber or felt roofs, corrugated sheeting, or cladding. Please note, there are special methods for fixing cameras to Pre-Cast Reinforced Concrete (PRC) houses. If your property has PRC, or if you're unsure if the surface of your home is suitable for mounting a camera on, please contact us for advice.
• Mount the camera securely. Fix the camera securely according to the manufacturer's instructions. To avoid damage to outside brickwork and internal plasterwork, holes for the camera fixings must have pilot holes drilled from both sides of the brickwork. Holes should be drilled through the mortar joint to avoid damage. 
• Do not disturb asbestos. If you are unsure, please contact us before installation so we can advise if there is any asbestos in your home and where it is located.  
• Install the CCTV system correctly, meeting all relevant regulations. Wires or cables should ideally be hidden and appropriately secured using metal clips. If your camera is being installed by a contractor, please supply us with a copy of the minor works electrical certificate. The contractor will be able to supply this on completion of the work.
• Ensure you have insurance to cover for incidental damage. 
• Follow height restrictions. Install the camera no higher than the highest part of the roof, excluding chimney stacks.  
• Respect your neighbour's privacy. Follow best practices for camera placement to ensure you are respecting your neighbour’s privacy while protecting your home.  

Smart doorbells

Smart doorbells can be installed outside the front door of your home, following the manufacturer's instructions. We do not allow smart doorbells to be installed on fire doors or their frames. If you are unsure whether a door in your home is a fire door, please contact customer support for advice.