Many Southerners still see Alabama as the heart of the South, with the melody of freedom resonating as loudly as ever. Despite having a lower population than its neighbor to the east, Alabama is no less dynamic or rich in history. Nonetheless, like any other state, the place must deal with the unpleasant reality of crime. Despite having fewer crimes per mile than most other areas in the United States, home security in Alabama is nevertheless a necessity.
Licensing Board Is Required for Home Security Providers
When it comes to regulating home security companies, Alabama’s regulations are very detailed. Alabama establishes a licensing board aimed particularly at alarm systems and their workers, with authority to make hiring decisions. Home security companies are required to pass numerous exams set by the licensing board and demonstrate that they have recruited people who satisfy the board’s reasonably high requirements.
Businesses that wish to start doing business in the state must invest heavily. If an individual establishes their own small alarm business, they must seek state registration, which will require a capital outlay starting at several hundred dollars.
Overall, Alabama’s home security provider rules are excellent news for consumers. If you have any doubts about a provider, you can always check their identity or contact the state regulatory body to ensure that everything is in order. If they aren’t, it’s a strong indication that you should not do business with them.
Security Cameras Are Covered under the Same Laws as Regular Alarm Systems
In its legal language, the state explicitly considers security cameras as part of a home security system. This is excellent news for those of you who want to install a few cameras in or around your home. It’s fair to assume that the state government has no objections to incorporating these in your security strategy.
There are a few general problems you should be aware of. The first and most apparent is how you’re using those cameras. You’re safe if it’s apparent that you’re employing them to monitor and defend your house from intruders. However, you must not angle any of your cameras towards your neighbors’ properties or their windows. This is an invasion of privacy and a violation of Alabama’s privacy laws.
The same is true when it comes to audio. Since sound travels, it’s often best to eliminate audio, particularly on cameras located outside your home. Although Alabama is a “one-party consent” state, which means that only one person involved in the discussion (hey, that might be you) must agree to the recording, there is one exception. Even if you are recording a discussion that you are unaware is taking place, you may be held responsible under the state’s eavesdropping laws.
Make Sure Your Outdoor Camera Points in the Right Direction
Outdoor cameras, including video doorbells, may be strategically placed around your property as long as they do not aim directly into a room or area that a neighbor might deem private. Cameras are permitted to be pointed from your front door toward the street, front yard, or your rear door, and more. If you can see inside a neighbor’s home, things become a bit tricky. The best course of action is to keep those digital eyes on your own and public property.
Final Thoughts
Security cameras offer an intriguing mix of both safeguarding consumers and possibly exposing them to legal concerns. Fortunately, following the laws and recommendations outlined above is as simple as installing a DIY camera, so if you adhere to those fundamental principles, you will be operating legally and successfully safeguarding your house.
At SAVI, we realize the importance of safeguarding your property via advanced surveillance systems. We offer high-quality security cameras to safeguard your house. Contact us, and let our experts take care of your security camera installation needs!