Installing a home security camera is one of the best ways to keep an eye on your property, deter would-be intruders, and even catch those last-minute holiday package deliveries. However, mounting your camera in the wrong location can diminish its effectiveness and potentially land you in hot water with neighbors or even local authorities. Below are seven spots you should avoid when installing your home security camera—plus tips on where to install it instead.
1. Places With an “Expectation of Privacy”
Every state has its own nuances regarding privacy laws, but there’s a universal concept known as the “reasonable expectation of privacy.” Bathrooms, bedrooms, and other personal spaces typically fall under this category. Installing a camera in these areas can lead to serious legal issues and ethical concerns.
Avoid:
Bathrooms (full or half)
Bedrooms
Other private spaces (e.g., changing rooms in a shared home)
What to do instead:
If you must monitor a private area, make sure the camera is clearly visible and that everyone in the home is aware of it.
Focus on common areas such as living rooms, entryways, and hallways, where the expectation of privacy is lower.
2. Directly Facing a Neighbor’s Property
While it’s tempting to angle your camera so it covers as much territory as possible, you could accidentally (or intentionally) capture views into a neighbor’s yard or windows. In many regions, that’s not only rude—it can also be illegal.
Avoid:
Aiming your camera so it clearly views a neighbor’s bedroom, porch, or backyard
Creating any impression that you’re “spying” on their property
What to do instead:
Use privacy zones (available on many modern security cams) to block out areas you don’t want to record.
Position the camera so it focuses on your driveway, porch, or yard, ensuring minimal overlap with your neighbor’s property.
3. Hard-to-See “Hidden” Spots
It might seem logical to cover those dark or hidden corners where an intruder might lurk, but data shows that most burglars opt for more obvious entry points—such as the front door or first-floor windows.
Avoid:
Placing cameras exclusively in spots you personally can’t see from windows or doors
Covering only secluded alleyways or back corners
What to do instead:
Prioritize main entry points such as the front door, garage, or ground-floor windows—where 34% of burglars enter, according to ADT research.
If you want to keep an eye on those hidden spots, consider purchasing multiple cameras. A bundle pack (such as Arlo, Ring, Blink, or Wyze) will let you cover both the main entrances and out-of-sight areas.
4. Behind Obstructions
A camera with a blocked or partially blocked field of view won’t do you much good. Sometimes, these obstructions aren’t immediately obvious—like a tree branch that sways in the wind or a door that’s frequently left open.
Avoid:
Mounting your camera behind large objects (e.g., furniture, tall shelves)
Placing a camera outdoors where growing shrubbery or tree branches could block its view
What to do instead:
Trim foliage regularly or choose spots where plants won’t obstruct the lens.
Indoors, test the camera’s view with doors opened and closed.
Position cameras out of reach of curious pets or rambunctious toddlers, which can cause accidental bumps or knock the camera out of angle.
5. Through a Window
Placing an indoor-only camera by a window to capture outdoor activity seems cost-effective, but you’ll likely run into glare issues and limited viewing angles.
Avoid:
Relying on an indoor camera pointed through glass for outdoor surveillance
Ignoring potential glare from sunlight, which can wash out the camera’s image
What to do instead:
Invest in a weatherproof outdoor security camera designed to handle direct exposure to the elements.
Position your outdoor cam to cover main entry points (driveways, porches, back doors) without dealing with reflections or glare.
6. Facing the Sky
While it’s unlikely you’ll point your camera straight at the clouds, many cameras have wide-angle lenses that capture a good portion of the sky. This can lead to issues with sun glare and overexposure, making important details impossible to see. Prolonged direct sunlight may also damage the camera lens and degrade its battery over time.
Avoid:
Mounting cameras where the sun’s path is in direct alignment with the lens for large chunks of the day
Installing in spots with zero shading or UV protection
What to do instead:
Angle your camera downward or position it under eaves, awnings, or shaded overhangs.
Check your camera’s feed at different times of day to ensure the sun isn’t washing out the view.
7. Near Vents or Heaters
Heat sources—like space heaters, fireplaces, dryer vents, and HVAC exhausts—create a host of problems for security cameras. The lens tends to get dirty faster, and the extra heat can damage internal batteries or electronics.
Avoid:
Mounting cameras directly above or beside a working fireplace or heat vent
Placing adhesive-based cameras near high temperatures (the heat can weaken the adhesive and cause the camera to fall)
What to do instead:
Choose a spot away from direct heat, especially if you’re using a wireless model.
If your chosen location is prone to temperature fluctuations (like a garage or porch near a heat vent), consider a camera built for extreme weather.
Bonus Tip: Camera Height and Power Sources
There’s no universal “correct” height for installing a security camera. Higher vantage points can give you a wider field of view, but they also make it harder to access the cam for battery changes or routine cleaning.
If you opt for a battery-powered camera, consider a spot that’s easy to reach. Alternatively, use a solar-powered security camera for hassle-free charging.
Video doorbells like Ring and Nest are generally installed around 4 feet from the bottom of the doorframe, perfect for capturing clear facial shots.
FAQs
How do I avoid legal issues when installing a security camera?
Always respect the “expectation of privacy.” This means steering clear of bathrooms, bedrooms, and other private areas. Make sure your camera angles don’t infringe on neighbors’ private spaces, especially backyards or windows. When in doubt, consult local regulations or speak with a legal professional to be absolutely certain you’re in the clear.
What are the biggest obstructions to a security camera?
Common obstructions include tree branches, shrubs, and direct glare from sunlight or reflections off windows. Regular trimming and strategic positioning can help your camera maintain a clear view. Indoors, make sure pets or swinging doors aren’t blocking the lens.
Why should I keep my camera away from vents and heat sources?
Heat sources can shorten a camera’s lifespan by damaging internal components and dirtying the lens. This extra wear and tear often results in more frequent cleanings and potential battery failure—especially in wireless models. Plus, melted adhesives can cause a wired or wireless camera to detach and fall, leading to damage or pricey repairs.
Bottom Line
Security cameras are an excellent way to keep your home and loved ones safe, but placement is crucial. By avoiding these seven problem areas and following best practices for installation, you can maximize your camera’s effectiveness, stay on good terms with neighbors, and ensure your investment in home security truly pays off.