Tenant requesting secrutiy cameras

Discussion in 'Property Management' started by FKS, 24th Aug, 2015.

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  1. FKS

    FKS Active Member

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    Hi all,

    I received a call from my property manager asking if the tenants can install some security cameras. From what was explained to me the tenants will patch up any holes they create.

    My initial thoughts are that i would be open to considering it provided it's installed by a licensed electrician and once the lease is up any holes are returned to their original state. At the tenants own expense.

    Are there any possible insurance issues? Any other real concerns or questions i should be considering.

    I curious to know what your thoughts are.
     
    FKS, 24th Aug, 2015
    #1
  2. Chilliblue

    Chilliblue Well-Known Member

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    I would agree on the basis that the tenant signs off on:

    1. All items to be installed are to be detailed on a plan with specifications as to what is to be installed and the contractors licence and insurance information.

    2. Tenant is responsible for the maintenance, removal and make good.

    3. Approval of the above must be granted prior to installation.

    Then ensure that your PM photographs the works once completed
     
    Chilliblue, 24th Aug, 2015
    #2
  3. SeafordSunshine

    SeafordSunshine Well-Known Member

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    I think it could be illegal for the cameras to be pointing 'at the neighbours house' I would check with the Privacy Commission to confirm just what you can and cant film, and then post it on here so we all learn from your experience.. you don't want to be sued! here is the NSW contact details , I am not sure where to look on there though.
    http://www.ipc.nsw.gov.au/privacy-laws
     
    SeafordSunshine, 24th Aug, 2015
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  4. Perp

    Perp Well-Known Member

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    I don't believe there are laws regarding any photographs taken from your private premises, anywhere in Australia.
     
    Perp, 24th Aug, 2015
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  5. SeafordSunshine

    SeafordSunshine Well-Known Member

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    SeafordSunshine, 24th Aug, 2015
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  6. thatbum

    thatbum Well-Known Member

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    thatbum, 24th Aug, 2015
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  7. Chilliblue

    Chilliblue Well-Known Member

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    Unless minors are involved
     
    Chilliblue, 24th Aug, 2015
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  8. Perp

    Perp Well-Known Member

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    Unless they're pornographic, which I assume is outside of what surveillance cameras capture, I wouldn't have thought so. Can you cite a source?
     
    Perp, 24th Aug, 2015
    #8
  9. Scott No Mates

    Scott No Mates Well-Known Member

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    Mini Minors?
     
    Scott No Mates, 24th Aug, 2015
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  10. WestOz

    WestOz Well-Known Member

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    I wouldn't agree to their request to damage the property then hope they fix it when leaving, bond may not cover it.
    If it were me I'd agree to personally pay for a system to be installed (which stays) if they agree to a rent and term increase.
     
    WestOz, 24th Aug, 2015
    #10
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  11. wylie

    wylie Moderator Staff Member

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    I'm also in the camp that I wouldn't want to rely on them "making good" at the end of the tenancy. At that time, they are "out of there" mentally and having to patch and repair, or even pay for someone else to do it is going to be low on their priority list.

    I would look at allowing them to install a system, approved by me, and left at the end. That way, you get the benefit for the next tenant (who will likely not want it anyway) and if you approve it before it goes in, you are not left with an ugly mess.
     
    wylie, 24th Aug, 2015
    #11
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  12. Chilliblue

    Chilliblue Well-Known Member

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    In Australia the taking and publication of a person's photograph, without their consent or knowledge is not an invasion of privacy, nor is it in contravention of case or statute law.

    However, various states have brought in versions of Anti Voyeurism Laws which need to be taken into consideration.

    However, it I was a neighbour with cameras pointed towards my property, I would move heaven and earth to have them relocated.
     
    Last edited: 25th Aug, 2015
    Chilliblue, 25th Aug, 2015
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  13. FKS

    FKS Active Member

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    As far as installation, I'm not overly concerned because all i can see them doing is creating a small hole in the eave lining to connect the power. Even if they don't fix it adequately i can't see it being a major patch-up job. Should only be a few small holes at most.

    If the tenant was to install it as mentioned above my major concerns would be that it is done by a licensed electrical and that i approve the cameras and locations before they go in. I wouldn't want the tenant installing anything and potentially voiding any insurance or creating potential issues.

    Or as has been mentioned above the other option could be for me to suggest supplying and installing the cameras with the tenant agreeing to an increase in rent to help recoup some of the costs and agreeing to a term increase.

    I'm inclined to let them install it at this stage providing it's done by a licensed electrician and them agreeing to patch the holes after. If i was to go down this route i assume i should also request that it's uninstalled by a licensed electrician or would this not be necessary? I also don't want to be liable for any privacy issues so i wouldn't be happy if any of the cameras faced neighbors properties.
     
    FKS, 25th Aug, 2015
    #13
  14. Sonamic

    Sonamic Well-Known Member

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    Is it not a value add? Will an Electronic Security System not also lower your Insurance Premium? And if you paid to have it put in for keeps would the Cost not be A Deduction?
     
    Sonamic, 25th Aug, 2015
    #14
  15. WestOz

    WestOz Well-Known Member

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    If a Wireless/WiFi system is used hard wiring isn't required, just need to mount the bracket which could be done with double sided tape, best option for tenants.
     
    WestOz, 25th Aug, 2015
    #15
  16. Raydar

    Raydar Well-Known Member

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    I'd be more concerned about why they want them. Either the IP is in a bad area OR, they are hiding something and want to keep abreast of who is outside at any given time.
     
    Raydar, 25th Aug, 2015
    #16
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  17. FKS

    FKS Active Member

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    I think it's to do with kids jumping the fence from what i can recall
     
    FKS, 25th Aug, 2015
    #17
  18. WestOz

    WestOz Well-Known Member

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    WestOz, 25th Aug, 2015
    #18
  19. Jamie_

    Jamie_ Well-Known Member

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    enjoy your drug house
     
    Jamie_, 26th Aug, 2015
    #19
  20. Raydar

    Raydar Well-Known Member

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    Raydar, 26th Aug, 2015
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