These are the worst places to put a home security camera

Installing home security cameras can enhance safety, but poor placement can make them ineffective or even problematic. To ensure your security system works as intended, avoid placing cameras in the following locations.

Avoid placing cameras where privacy is expected

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is installing cameras in areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Bathrooms, bedrooms, and changing areas are off-limits unless absolutely necessary. If a camera must be placed in such a location—like in a shared rental—it should be clearly visible and disclosed to everyone in the household.

Never point a camera directly at a neighbor’s property

Cameras should protect your home, not invade someone else’s privacy. Pointing a camera toward a neighbor’s windows, backyard, or private spaces could result in complaints or even legal consequences. To prevent disputes, many modern security cameras offer privacy zones that block out certain areas from being recorded.

Hidden areas may not be the best spots

It may seem logical to place cameras in areas that are hard to see, like side alleys or back corners, but statistics show that most burglars enter through front doors or ground-level windows. Prioritizing coverage of these entry points is more effective than monitoring less accessible spots.

Avoid placing cameras behind obstructions

A camera that is blocked by trees, walls, or decorations won’t capture useful footage. Outdoor cameras should be installed where trees or growing plants won’t obstruct their view, and indoor cameras should be positioned where doors and furniture won’t interfere.

Windows and direct sunlight cause problems

Placing a camera behind a window often results in glare that makes footage useless. Similarly, cameras pointed toward the sky or in direct sunlight can suffer from overexposure, UV damage, and poor image quality. Angling the camera downward and placing it in shaded areas can help.

Keep cameras away from vents and heat sources

Mounting a camera near a heat source like a vent, fireplace, or heater can lead to lens fogging, faster battery degradation, and adhesive failure in wireless models. Over time, this can result in poor performance or even complete camera failure.