The neighbor's camera films your property: he is not allowed to do that

A private surveillance camera may in principle only capture the owner's own property. If the neighbor films your property, the shared access or public areas, that violates your personality rights. Even a serious sense of being watched (surveillance pressure) can be enough.

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Your chances of getting your money back

If a camera captures your property or public areas without authorization, that violates your personality rights. You have a claim to removal and that it stop (§§ 823, 1004 BGB).

Even a serious surveillance pressure, for example a swiveling camera or one seemingly aimed at you, can give rise to a claim, even if it is unclear whether recording actually takes place.

What you should do now

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1. Document the situation
Record the location and orientation of the camera (photos) and what it can capture.
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2. Approach the neighbor
Ask the neighbor in writing to orient the camera so that only their own property is captured.
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3. Demand removal
If nothing changes, demand removal of the impairment and that it stop, with a deadline.
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4. Escalate
If that does not help, a complaint to the data protection authority and, if necessary, a lawsuit may be options.

How to spot the scam

The camera is swiveling and can be aimed at your property.
The shared house entrance or the street are also captured.
The neighbor refuses any information about the coverage area.

Frequently asked questions

Is my neighbor allowed to film my property?

No. A private camera may in principle only capture the owner's own property. If your property, the shared access or public areas are also captured, that violates your personality rights, and you can demand removal.

Is it enough that I feel watched?

Under certain circumstances, yes. Even a serious surveillance pressure, for example from a swiveling camera or one seemingly aimed at you, can give rise to a claim, even if it is unclear whether recording actually takes place.

What can I do?

Approach the neighbor and demand that the camera be aimed only at their property. If that does not help, demand removal and that it stop in writing. If it stays that way, you can turn to the data protection authority or file a lawsuit.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.