Visiting my home for sale: should I disconnect the video surveillance?

SellMorgane JacquetJune 22, 2021Share on

To ensure the security of your home, you are free to install a video surveillance system. You must ensure that everyone's privacy is respected.

During visits, you can leave the video surveillance plugged in

When you install a video surveillance system in your home, you must ensure that you do not interfere with the privacy of your visitors, neighbors or passers-by. Indeed, everyone has a right to their image. When one or more people outside your family circle come to your home – such is the case of a real estate agent who shows your property for sale – you must inform them of the presence of the video surveillance system.

Failing to do so may result in criminal penalties. Capturing or recording a person's words or image in a private place without their consent is punishable by one year's imprisonment and a fine of €45,000.

The installation of cameras in a private place does not require any prior administrative authorization.

Installing a video surveillance device at home

As an owner, you can freely install cameras in your home, especially if you want to secure it against numerous burglaries. This practice is allowed. It must be ensured that the installed device only films the interior of the property. This can be inside the home or even a private garden. Indeed, as an individual, you do not have the right to film public roads even if you wish to ensure the safety of your vehicle parked in front of your home.

Once your installation is complete, you are free to decide who can view the recorded images.