Neighbour's Ring Doorbell Recording Garden Raises Privacy Concerns in Immingham
Anna-Marie from Immingham, Lincolnshire sought advice in a Money Problem story published on 16 December 2025 about her neighbour's Ring video doorbell recording her front garden. This situation touches on data protection laws which apply when CCTV captures footage beyond a property boundary. Such recording must have a legitimate purpose, avoid excessive capture, include a clear notice of recording, provide footage upon request, ensure footage is regularly or automatically deleted, and cease if there is no legitimate reason, especially if the recorded person objects.
The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) emphasizes residents have a right to privacy in and around their homes, and cameras capturing beyond the boundary may fall under data protection rules. The recommended first step is to talk to the neighbour to request repositioning or adjusting the camera settings, explain any concerns, inquire about why the recording is taking place, check for privacy blockers or blurring, and ask to see the recorded footage.
If discussions fail to resolve the issue, the ICO may send a letter to the neighbour, but enforcement actions such as removing the camera or deleting footage are unlikely. For situations involving harassment, individuals should contact their landlord, local housing officer, or the police; however, police are unlikely to treat CCTV recording as harassment unless accompanied by additional abusive behavior. Legal action in court is considered a last resort due to its costly and time-consuming nature.
