It is generally legal to install a video camera in your home to monitor a babysitter or nanny, and does not require the consent of the babysitter or nanny. But it is generally illegal to place such a camera in private places such as bathrooms or a live-in nanny’s bedroom. And in some states that require both parties to consent to the recording of a conversation, it is illegal to place a camera or other device in your home that records audio without the consent (preferably in writing) of your babysitter or nanny. These states that require two-way consent to record conversations (your consent and the babysitter or nanny’s consent) include California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

In Washington State, it is legal for homeowners to install video cameras in their homes for the purpose of monitoring a babysitter or nanny. This can be done without the consent of the individual being recorded, as long as the camera is placed in common areas and not in private spaces such as bathrooms or a live-in nanny's bedroom. However, Washington is a two-party consent state when it comes to audio recordings. This means that it is illegal to record conversations without the consent of all parties involved. Therefore, if a camera also captures audio, the homeowner must obtain consent from the babysitter or nanny to legally record audio conversations. It is advisable to obtain this consent in writing to ensure clarity and legal compliance.