How can I legally install CCTV for my home in Singapore?

The installation of CCTV (closed-circuit television) cameras in many Singaporeans’ homes has become increasingly commonplace. And it’s not surprising, given the many benefits provided by CCTV surveillance. Such benefits include ensuring security and peace of mind when the owner is away from home for a long time.

Since CCTVs offer high surveillance, there are strict laws in Singapore to ensure that they are installed and used in a safe, proper manner. Before you begin installing your CCTV system in your home, it’s best that you first find out the rules and regulations that you should follow. That’s why, in this article, we will share how you can properly install CCTV cameras in your home in Singapore!

Inside your home

For the installation of CCTVs inside your home, the good news is that you don’t need permission from the authorities. However, there are still restrictions on how you can install and use your cameras.

HDB (Housing and Development Board) homeowners should take note that they cannot have their CCTV recording common areas, like corridors or lift lobbies, even if the camera is placed inside their flat.

Additionally, the way that your CCTV is positioned should not intrude upon your neighbour’s property and privacy – for example, if the camera is pointed such that it records your neighbour’s movements either within his apartment or in and out of it, he may file a complaint against you to have the camera removed.

This applies not only to HDB homeowners; whether you live in an HDB flat, condominium or private landed property, you should not use your CCTV cameras to record your neighbours’ movements – or you may be sued by your neighbours.

Outside your home

There are specific rules regarding the installation of CCTV outside different types of home properties:

Homeowners of landed properties have the most freedom to install their cameras outside their home. If you live in a landed property, you are allowed to install CCTV cameras on any part of your compound, including the backyard, parking space, or poolside.

For condominium homeowners, the installation of CCTV outside the home is regulated by the rules of the condo management. They might require you to get approval before installing CCTV or allow you to install the camera for a limited period of time before you have to apply for approval again. Similarly, if your camera is positioned such that it intrudes upon your neighbour’s privacy, they might also lodge a complaint to the management, resulting in you having to remove your camera.

Finally, if you’re an HDB homeowner, you can’t install CCTV outside your flat, unless approved by the Town Council. Generally, the Town Council does not allow you to install any structure in common areas, including just outside of your apartment, without acquiring approval. As such, if you want to install a CCTV camera outside your home, there must be a reason to do so, like if there has been vandalism to your property, or if you’ve been victim to the misdeeds of your neighbour. Here’s what you need to do:

Steps to install CCTV outside your HDB home

1. Lodge a police report regarding the offence that has been committed
2. Write an email to your HDB’s Town Council with a copy of the police report
3. Wait for approval (through email) from Town Council, which will take about 1 to 2 weeks. Then, you can proceed to install the CCTV outside your home.

Take note that even after approval, you are allowed to install your CCTV outside your home for only a maximum of 6 months – after which you will need to submit a new request.

Overall, any installation of CCTV cameras has to be carried out by a licenced Security Service Provider, not on your own. Don’t worry if you are not completely sure about the installation process. Your licenced CCTV vendor will advise you on where it is best to install CCTV cameras in your home compound, taking into account the laws and regulations that need to be followed!

One Stop Office Solutions is a leading CCTV surveillance company in Singapore. With 3 simple steps: consultation, our recommendation of trusted solutions, and installation, we set you up with the best and safest CCTV systems for your home. Get in touch with us today!