Can my landlord use cameras inside my flat or room?

No. Cameras are generally not allowed in your private rented space. Installing them without your consent likely breaches your privacy rights and the law.

Do landlords have to display signs for cameras in shared areas?

Yes, if cameras are in shared hallways or entrances, clear and visible signs must be posted to inform everyone who may be recorded.

What should I do if I discover a camera I wasn’t told about?

Contact your landlord in writing first. If not resolved, raise your concern with your local authority, Rent Smart Wales, or the ICO for privacy issues.

Can I refuse entry for repairs if a camera is pointing at my door?

You must allow reasonable access for repairs, but you can ask your landlord to adjust or clarify the use of cameras so your privacy isn’t unnecessarily affected.

Where can I get support for privacy or surveillance problems in my rented home?

See the help and support section for trusted, official resources and contact options in Wales.

Your Rights if Your Landlord Installs Cameras in Wales

Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Wales published: June 29, 2025

Worried about your landlord installing cameras where you rent in Wales? It’s natural to want privacy in your home, and UK laws set clear limits on monitoring. This guide explains whether landlords must tell tenants about cameras in or around rented homes in Wales, what types of surveillance are allowed, and what to do if you’re concerned about your rights.

Understanding Privacy Rights for Renters in Wales

As a renter, you have a fundamental right to enjoy your home in peace and privacy. This is legally protected under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016^[1] and the UK’s Data Protection Act 2018^[2]. Landlords must respect your right to “quiet enjoyment,” which means you should be able to live in your home without unnecessary interference.

Are Landlords Required to Tell You About Cameras?

In Wales, landlords are not generally allowed to install cameras inside your private living space—for example, bedrooms, living rooms, or bathrooms. Doing so without your knowledge or agreement would almost always breach your privacy rights and is likely to violate the law.

Indoor common areas: Cameras in shared hallways or entrances of a multi-tenant building are possible, but the landlord must have a valid reason and follow strict rules under data protection law.
Outdoor/exterior cameras: Cameras outside the property (like on a driveway or communal entrance) are more common, but landlords should still inform tenants if these are in use, especially if they might record areas you use or your guests entering/leaving.

Landlords who use surveillance must comply with the Data Protection Act 2018, which requires them to:

Inform tenants about camera placement and purpose
Display clear signage if cameras cover shared or communal areas
Only collect, store, or share footage in line with privacy laws

If you find a camera in your private space and weren’t told, or if you’re unsure about monitoring, you have clear rights to challenge this.

What You Can Do If You’re Concerned About Cameras

If you suspect your landlord has installed cameras without proper notice or in a way that invades your privacy, here are practical steps to follow:

Talk to your landlord in writing, stating your concerns and asking them to explain the purpose, placement, and legal basis of any cameras.
If you feel your privacy rights are at risk or privacy law is being broken, contact Rent Smart Wales or your local authority’s housing team for advice.
You can seek help or make a formal complaint using:

Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) Complaint Form: Use this if you believe your data privacy is breached.
Public Services Ombudsman for Wales Complaint Form: For unresolved grievances involving local authorities or housing associations.

If you wish to challenge an eviction or believe you’re being treated unfairly for raising concerns, you may need to apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Renters in Wales are also protected from retaliatory eviction if they complain about privacy breaches. For more on your tenancy and eviction rights, refer to the Welsh Government’s guidance for tenants.

Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them

Residential Property Tribunal Wales Application Form
When you believe a serious breach of your rights has occurred (such as unlawful entry or unauthorized surveillance) and informal complaints have failed. Find the official forms and guidance here.
ICO Data Protection Complaint Form
If your landlord has collected video or audio of you without telling you, and you believe this breaks data protection law. Start a complaint online at the ICO.
Ombudsman Wales Complaint Form
Used if your landlord is a local authority or social landlord and your complaint about surveillance is not resolved locally. Access the complaint form here.

Each form should be completed clearly with details of what happened, and you should keep a copy for your records. If you’re unsure which to use, contact Rent Smart Wales for initial guidance.

If you ever feel unsafe or believe hidden cameras are in use, contact your local council or the police immediately.

FAQ: Landlord Cameras and Your Rights in Wales

Can my landlord use cameras inside my flat or room?
No. Cameras are generally not allowed in your private rented space. Installing them without your consent likely breaches your privacy rights and the law.
Do landlords have to display signs for cameras in shared areas?
Yes, if cameras are in shared hallways or entrances, clear and visible signs must be posted to inform everyone who may be recorded.
What should I do if I discover a camera I wasn’t told about?
Contact your landlord in writing first. If not resolved, raise your concern with your local authority, Rent Smart Wales, or the ICO for privacy issues.
Can I refuse entry for repairs if a camera is pointing at my door?
You must allow reasonable access for repairs, but you can ask your landlord to adjust or clarify the use of cameras so your privacy isn’t unnecessarily affected.
Where can I get support for privacy or surveillance problems in my rented home?
See the help and support section below for trusted, official resources and contact options in Wales.

Key Takeaways: Understanding Landlord Camera Rules in Wales

Landlords must respect your right to privacy and cannot put cameras in your personal living space without clear consent.
You have the right to know about, question, or challenge camera use in shared or outdoor areas.
If you have concerns, use official channels (local council, ICO, Residential Property Tribunal Wales) to seek advice and make a complaint if needed.

In summary, camera use is highly regulated to protect your privacy as a renter in Wales. Act promptly if you think your rights are at risk.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Wales

Rent Smart Wales – Official body for landlord and tenant registration, with helplines and advice for renters.
Residential Property Tribunal Wales – Handles disputes over tenancies, including privacy issues.
Welsh Government: Renting Homes Guidance – Comprehensive, plain-language advice for tenants in Wales.
Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) – For privacy/data protection complaints and guidance.
Public Services Ombudsman for Wales – Independent complaints service for social housing issues.