QUESTION: Our association has security cameras by the garage gate and outside our entrance doors, but the cameras do not work. They are only there to deter thieves. Does this bring a false sense of security to owners who may sue if they are not working cameras?
ANSWER: Even if they deter some criminal activity, dummy cameras create potential liability for the association because they create an expectation in owners and visitors that the association is monitoring the common area. In my opinion, it is better to spend the money to have working cameras. In addition, the association should have a reasonable maintenance schedule by in-house staff or an independent vendor so that non-working cameras are promptly repaired.
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