While it may seem perfectly fine to install cameras in your own home, there are actually illegal uses of nanny cams that you need to be aware of. If you want to protect your family when hiring a new nanny, there are a few considerations about how you can and can't use these devices, and whether or not you need to make your nanny aware of them.
Nanny cams certainly offer a higher level of protection across the home. They ensure your nanny is doing his or her job, and even provide protection from burglary. However, there arelegal ramifications to using them. Here are a few things you need to make sure you do before installing nanny cams, or hiring a nanny if you already have them in place:
Communicate trust – While you want to keep your nanny cams hidden, you also need to tell your nanny that you use them. The use of a nanny cam implies you don't trust your nanny, but the truth is that you're simply covering your bases, and you want to communicate this clearly. Explain to the nanny that you trust him or her, but also want to do what's best for your child.
Don't install them in the bathroom – It may be your home, but filming someone in the bathroom without his or her permission is still illegal. Don't install a nanny cam in any of your bathrooms to provide privacy and ensure you're staying within the bounds of the law.
Tell the nanny – Every nanny should have full disclosure that nanny cams are in use in your household. If you haven't installed them yet, tell him or her beforehand, and if you already have them and are interviewing, discuss it during the interview.
If you're looking to hire a nanny, contact Colonial Domestic Agency for expert placement services help.