Are Hallway Cameras Legal? Nova Scotia Tenant Privacy Guide

Many tenants in Nova Scotia wonder whether landlords can legally install hallway cameras in apartment buildings or rental properties. Privacy and safety are important considerations in any rental, so understanding your rights—and your landlord's obligations—is crucial. This guide covers what Nova Scotia law says about cameras in common areas, what you can do if you're concerned about surveillance, and how to protect your privacy as a tenant.

Can Landlords Install Hallway Cameras in Nova Scotia?

Landlords in Nova Scotia are permitted to install surveillance cameras in common areas such as hallways, entrances, laundry rooms, and parking areas. However, there are significant restrictions to protect tenant privacy:

• Cameras must only record common areas (never inside private units or bathrooms).
• Notice about video surveillance should be posted, and tenants should be informed of the cameras’ presence.
• Cameras may only be used for legitimate purposes such as safety, security, or protecting property.

Under Nova Scotia’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1] and federal privacy laws, landlords must balance safety with respect for tenant privacy.

Are Hidden Cameras Allowed?

Hidden cameras are not permitted in any area under a landlord’s control, including hallways. Installing cameras without proper notice or for invasive purposes could be a violation of tenant rights and privacy.

Tenant Privacy Rights and Surveillance Laws

In Nova Scotia, landlords have a “duty of quiet enjoyment,” which means you have the right to live in your home without unnecessary disturbance or surveillance. While cameras in common spaces can be legal, they should not monitor your activities excessively or capture the inside of your unit.

• The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada provides guidelines on video surveillance in residential settings.
• Landlords must follow the Residential Tenancies Act, which protects tenant privacy and outlines legal entry and surveillance limits.
• If you feel your privacy has been violated, you may bring a complaint to the Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program.

Looking to better understand your rights about security, inspections, or privacy? Get more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

What Is Not Allowed?

• Recording inside your unit, through windows, or in bathrooms.
• Surveillance with audio recording in any area (audio recording is much more restricted).
• Using videos for reasons other than security—such as monitoring tenant behaviour or enforcing lease terms.

For more on the shared responsibilities of tenants and landlords (such as safety, maintenance, and privacy), see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Can Tenants Do if They Are Concerned About Surveillance?

If you feel a camera is infringing on your privacy, follow these practical steps:

• Ask for Information: Request written details from your landlord on where cameras are located, what they record, and why they are in place.
• Check for Notice: Ensure there are posted signs indicating video surveillance in your building’s hallways or entries.
• File a Complaint: If you believe your privacy rights are being violated, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Program using the "Application to Director (Form K)":
  - Used for: Disputes about privacy, quiet enjoyment, or other tenant rights
  - Download/Submit: Application to Director (Form K)
  - Example: "I have noticed a new camera in the hallway that points directly at my door and was not notified. I want the Director to review if this breaches my privacy."
• Contact a Privacy Commissioner: If you have concerns about data usage or storage, you can also contact the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada for general advice.

Routine inspections are a normal part of tenancy, but cameras cannot be used in place of proper notice or lawful entry. For more insight, see Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Summary

Landlords may use hallway cameras in Nova Scotia only under strict guidelines, prioritizing safety and privacy. Tenants can take action if surveillance feels invasive or unlawful.

If you are searching for a new place or want to compare privacy and features in rentals, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQs About Hallway Cameras and Tenant Privacy in Nova Scotia

1. Can my landlord put a camera in the hallway outside my apartment?
   Yes, as long as the camera is only recording the common hallway, notice is given, and it is used for security (not monitoring specific tenants).
2. Can a landlord record audio in building hallways?
   Generally, audio recording is not permitted, as this is a stricter privacy concern under Canadian privacy law.
3. What should I do if I see a camera pointing towards my door?
   Ask your landlord for information in writing. If unresolved, submit Form K to the Residential Tenancies Program.
4. Are hidden cameras legal in rental buildings?
   No. All cameras must be visible and tenants must be informed about surveillance in common areas.
5. Who enforces tenant privacy rights in Nova Scotia?
   The Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program manages disputes, and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner can provide additional guidance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Cameras are allowed in common hallways, never inside private units—and must respect privacy.
• Tenants should be notified of all video surveillance, and all hidden cameras are prohibited.
• If you're concerned, you can ask questions, request written information, and file a complaint if needed.

Tenant privacy is protected under the law in Nova Scotia. Know your rights and steps you can take to address concerns.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program – Forms, official guides, and application information for tenant issues.
• Residential Tenancies Act and Regulations – Full legislation text.
• Nova Scotia Legal Aid – Free tenant advice and advocacy.
• For a broad overview, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nova Scotia.

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1. ^[1] Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Act
2. ^[2] Nova Scotia Residential Tenancies Program

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