Video Doorbell Clause
(Apartment Lease)

Summary

This clause may be included in a residential apartment lease to govern the installation and use of video doorbell cameras by the tenant. This clause does not address an obligation of tenant to permit the landlord to install such devices. This clause contains practical guidance, drafting notes, and an alternate clause. Video doorbells allow occupants to see, and in some instances hear, activity outside their front door. These doorbells are used to provide security and are often motion activated. The installation of a video doorbell within an apartment building can raise issues not present with detached single-family homes. For example, the doorbell may inadvertently record activities in a nearby unit that has its door open. Or conversations in the hallway might be picked up. To address these concerns, many landlords limit and regulate their use. This clause requires a tenant that installs a video doorbell to comply with applicable law and regulations and to indemnify the landlord against losses suffered and claims brought against the landlord as a result of the tenant's video doorbell installation. If the landlord instead wishes to prohibit the installation of video doorbells, use the alternate clause. The defined terms used in this clause should be modified to conform to those used in the apartment lease. Best practice is to monitor this evolving area of law for changes in practice and additional local law requirements. For more on residential leasing, see Residential Lease Agreements and Residential Leasing Resource Kit.