Can My Neighbour Have CCTV Pointing at My House UK

As CCTV becomes more affordable and widespread, many homeowners in the UK are choosing to install security cameras to protect their property. However, tensions can arise when one neighbour’s CCTV appears to be pointing at another person’s home, driveway or garden. If your neighbour has CCTV that overlooks your house, you might wonder if it is legal, whether your privacy is being breached and what you can do about it.

This article explains the legal position on residential CCTV in the UK, your rights to privacy, what steps you can take if you have concerns and how neighbours can resolve disputes over surveillance in a fair and lawful way.

What does UK law say about domestic CCTV?

Under UK law, homeowners are allowed to install CCTV on their property for security purposes. This is perfectly legal, even if the system records outside the boundaries of their home, such as public pavements or nearby properties. However, once the cameras record images beyond their own property line, the owner becomes subject to data protection laws under the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

This means the person operating the CCTV must have a legitimate reason for recording, inform others that they are being filmed (usually with a sign), and ensure that recordings are stored securely and not misused. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) provides clear guidance on how private individuals should use CCTV responsibly.

Can a neighbour legally record your home?

If your neighbour’s CCTV captures parts of your property, such as your driveway, front door or garden, it is not automatically illegal. However, the recording must be justified, proportionate and respectful of your privacy. For example, pointing a camera at your front door to monitor the street for security reasons may be reasonable. Deliberately pointing it into your windows or private spaces without a valid reason could be considered intrusive and may breach privacy rights.

The law does not prohibit external surveillance outright, but it does require operators to strike a balance between protecting their property and respecting others’ private lives.

What should your neighbour be doing if they have CCTV?

If their system records areas outside their property boundary, your neighbour should take several steps to stay within the law. They should place clear signs stating that CCTV is in operation, avoid capturing more footage than necessary, and provide a valid reason for recording. They are also responsible for keeping any footage secure and ensuring it is only used for lawful purposes, such as reporting crime.

If their system has audio recording, this is more sensitive and often considered more intrusive than video. Most domestic systems do not need to record sound, and doing so can raise further privacy concerns.

What can you do if you are uncomfortable?

If you believe your neighbour’s CCTV is affecting your privacy, the first step is to speak with them directly. They may not realise that their cameras are pointing towards your home, and an informal conversation can often resolve concerns quickly.

If that does not work, or you are not satisfied with their response, you can raise a concern with the Information Commissioner’s Office. The ICO can investigate misuse of CCTV under data protection law and may issue guidance or warnings if your neighbour is acting unlawfully.

You may also consider speaking with your local council’s community safety team, especially if there is a wider dispute or anti-social behaviour issue. In extreme cases, where surveillance is deliberate, targeted or part of a pattern of harassment, you could seek legal advice or apply for an injunction through the civil courts.

Do the police get involved in CCTV disputes?

The police do not usually intervene in disputes over domestic CCTV unless a criminal offence is involved. If you believe that footage is being used to harass you, or if the camera is being used in a threatening or voyeuristic way, then this may be considered harassment or a public order offence. In such cases, the police can investigate and take appropriate action.

How can CCTV be used responsibly between neighbours?

Neighbourly CCTV does not have to be a source of conflict. Many neighbours install cameras as a mutual benefit, helping deter crime and support community safety. If your neighbour has explained their reasons, and their cameras do not invade private spaces unnecessarily, the system may be acceptable.

It is always helpful for neighbours to discuss any planned CCTV installations in advance, position cameras to minimise overspill and maintain open communication. Mutual respect and understanding can prevent most disputes from escalating.

Conclusion

Your neighbour can have CCTV pointing towards your house in the UK if it is for a legitimate reason, but they must comply with data protection laws if the cameras capture areas beyond their own property. If you feel your privacy is being breached, try to resolve the matter amicably. If concerns persist, you can escalate the issue to the Information Commissioner’s Office or seek legal advice. Responsible use of CCTV is possible with the right safeguards, and clear communication between neighbours can help maintain both security and trust.