Neighbours can install lawful video doorbells in the UK if privacy rules are followed, warns government

UK neighbours can legally install video doorbells on their properties provided they adhere to privacy regulations, with authorities emphasising responsible use and potential repercussions for breaches.

A neighbour can lawfully install a video doorbell in the UK, but only if it is used in a way that respects privacy rules. According to UK government guidance, domestic CCTV and similar doorbell cameras are acceptable when they are aimed mainly at the owner’s property; once they begin capturing neighbours’ homes, gardens, shared areas or public spaces, the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 can apply. The ICO says householders must use such systems responsibly and take account of other people’s privacy. (gov.uk)

If you think a camera is pointed at your home, the best first step is to speak to the neighbour calmly and ask what the camera can see. The government says householders should think carefully about what they need the system to record, whether it needs audio, and how they can minimise intrusion. The ICO also tells people with complaints about home CCTV to follow this approach before escalating the issue. (gov.uk)

If that does not resolve matters, you can complain to the ICO. The regulator says domestic CCTV complaints are within its remit when a camera records beyond the boundary of the owner’s property. It can consider the issue and, where needed, require changes to the system. In practice, that may mean repositioning the device, narrowing its field of view or reducing what it records. (ico.org.uk)

Owners also have obligations if their doorbell captures anything outside their boundary. Government guidance says they should take steps to reduce intrusion, inform people where appropriate and keep recordings secure for only as long as needed. A notable county court case, Fairhurst v Woodard, showed that intrusive use of a Ring doorbell can lead to findings of harassment and data protection breaches, with damages and costs reported at around £100,000. (gov.uk)