December 2025
Installing CCTV cameras can be an excellent solution to enhance your property’s safety and security. However, it’s crucial that you are aware of any requirements when gathering CCTV footage as well as understanding who is allowed to request access to this.
Here at Lynx, we’ve been established security system installers for over 30 years, offering services throughout the Midlands, so we are well-versed in the appropriate procedures that should be taken when installing these cameras. This blog contains all the information we think you need to know about who can see your CCTV footage.
Who Can Access Footage - Commercial Vs Domestic
It’s important to note that both domestic and commercial CCTV footage can be viewed by the owner of the security system. However, others are allowed to request footage depending on the circumstances.
There must always be a legitimate need for security cameras; installation cannot simply be due to idle curiosity. For example, a person may install CCTV cameras if they’re concerned about the safety of their property.
Similarities Between Applications
- Access is typically limited to the owner and any authorised personnel - whoever is required to look at the footage in the case of an emergency.
- Individuals recorded are also allowed to request to see footage of themselves if necessary.
- Police officers, or other legal figures such as solicitors, can also request to see footage if required for legal purposes. E.g. if a crime has been committed.
The main difference between these types is the significance to Data Protection Laws - domestic CCTV systems are typically exempt from this, but there can be instances where this isn’t the case.
Related article: Who Can Access CCTV Footage at Work
Be Transparent
Following on from this, it is a legal requirement that you make people aware that they are being recorded, should this system be publicly used. This makes it important to consider whether your CCTV cameras are public-facing, especially if it’s a domestic system, as this can impact the requirements of your system.
Individuals don’t need a verbal warning from owners that CCTV is in operation, but signs should be placed and made clearly visible. This should include basic information about the purpose of surveillance and contact details for any enquiries.
For commercial applications, it is vital to be open with your employees and any other visitors about the recording of CCTV footage to prevent any GDPR breaches.
Rights Under Data Protection Laws 2018
You have rights under the Data Protection Laws establishing how to deal with others recording CCTV footage of you. These rights are:
- The right to a Subject Access Request as a means to request footage of yourself for necessary purposes.
- The right to erasure, giving you the right to request footage taken of you to be deleted.
- The right to object to any CCTV footage recording of you. You can do this by contacting the owner before your visit to let them know of your disapproval. They need to have good grounds to continue recording you without your consent.
Recording private conversations can also be deemed illegal; therefore, you should be careful of what your CCTV camera is recording and whether it remains legally compliant.
Lynx Services
We offer CCTV systems for commercial properties and domestic properties, including new builds, helping you ensure the safety of your property to solidify your peace of mind.
We also suggest that you regularly check your systems are working properly to further guarantee safety and effectiveness.
If you have a CCTV system, or are considering getting one, it’s vital to have these professionally maintained at least once a year, alongside your own regular checks - Lynx are more than happy to assist you with this!
If you have any additional queries or want more information about our security systems, get in touch today. Call our office on 0800 998 1303 or email us via [email protected] and let our team of experts help you through the process.
Enjoy this blog? Check out our other blogs here for more tips, answers and advice!
Common Customer Queries
1. What should I do if something goes wrong with my security alarm system?
Our engineers are able to help with any home security issues that may incur, no matter the time of day, across the Midlands. You can contact our office throughout the working week and an emergency engineer will be available both evenings and weekends via our out-of-hours service.
2. What are the advantages of a monitored alarm system?
A monitored alarm system can give you a further sense of security surrounding your property. It can be connected to our Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) so that any signals sent from the alarm system can be used to alert you, nominated keyholders or even your local Police.
3. Does a house security alarm affect my insurance?
Whether your home security system reduces the cost of your insurance policy is entirely dependent on the terms and conditions of your insurance provider.
4. Will my pet trigger my house security alarm?
If your pet stands higher than the average adult human knee, or is prone to jumping onto furniture or counter-tops, it is likely they will activate your home security alarm system in rooms that have detectors.
However, altering your security system may be possible. Speak to us today to find out. If you’re thinking of installing an alarm, you can talk to us and consider including your pets when making your bespoke house alarm.
Check out our FAQ's page for more.