Effective Home Security Measures for Your Short-Term Rental: Expert Advice

Ensuring the security of your short-term rental is paramount in providing a safe and enjoyable experience for guests. Experts emphasize the importance of robust security measures, ranging from smart technology integration to vigilant property management. Discover how a proactive approach to home security safeguards your investment and fosters a positive guest experience, leading to increased satisfaction and repeat bookings.

Why is it important to think about security when you have an Airbnb?

Ensuring security in an Airbnb is crucial for both hosts and guests. The nature of short-term rentals makes properties susceptible to various risks, including unauthorized access, theft, or damage. Prioritizing security measures, such as robust lock systems, secure key exchanges, and surveillance cameras, helps create a safe environment for guests, enhancing their experience and satisfaction. For hosts, it safeguards their property and reputation. Additionally, considering the privacy and safety concerns of guests contributes to positive reviews and repeat business. Proactive security measures protect physical assets and build trust, building a secure and welcoming atmosphere that is essential for the success and sustainability of an Airbnb venture.

Kristy | Kiki interiors

What are some security measures a vacation rental should take into account?

Security is extremely important for hosts and guests in vacation rentals. As a host, you need to protect your property while safeguarding guests from injury as much as possible. 

I recommend all my clients have a well-lit exterior with a remote camera so they can see who is coming and going but also to help thwart against crime. Remote Keypad deadbolts are super convenient for everyone…they are a must-have. No need to worry about losing keys, lockouts, or late-night locksmith calls. Codes are automatically generated for each new guest and cannot be reused. Decibel monitors can alert the hosts of a party taking place. 

Technology is great, but don’t forget the basics: first aid kits, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and window locks. Pro tip: opt for non-glass cups and mugs so guests can’t cut themselves! 

Pete Appezzato | The Short-Term Shop 

What are the benefits of smart locks in short-term rentals? 

Smart locks are a key technology leading the digital change in the hospitality industry. Although the industry has been slow to adopt technology, the global pandemic and the growth and wider availability of tech solutions are transforming both short-term rentals and hotels.

Smart locks reduce wait times, enhance guest satisfaction, and improve security with self-serve check-ins in hotels. In short-term rentals, they offer even more benefits that are specific to the industry.

Many short-term rental businesses are dispersed across various locations. They don’t have a lobby or on-site concierge. This turns check-ins and property access into a complex task of passing keys. Smart locks allow vacation rental managers to handle check-ins remotely at any time, even late nights or early mornings. They also enable controlled access for cleaning teams and maintenance vendors at set times and dates. Some settings allow one code for multiple doors, simplifying cleaning and maintenance. This enables quicker property turnover, allowing more upsells like early check-ins and late check-outs.

Another great benefit is that smart locks give short-term rental operators complete control over property access and track entry history. This helps win chargeback cases against fraudulent guest claims, preventing revenue loss.

Smart locks simplify STR property management, reduce staff needs, improve guest experience, and open up new revenue opportunities, which is crucial for profit-focused 2024.

–Sasha Barak | Enso Connect

How can smart home technology help short-term rental hosts manage and maintain their properties remotely and securely?

Anyone invested in the short-term rental game understands on a fundamental level that smart home technology can make their lives easier, but knowing where to start is an entirely different story.  

Specifically, the demand for smart security measures is rising due to ease of integration and use. A recent study reported 82% of short-term rental owners are looking to implement keyless technology in the next two years.

As property owners shop around, they need to be sure what they choose is physically and digitally secure.  Z-Wave-certified smart security products offer unrivaled protection against cyber threats due to mandatory security protocols required for device certification. Many of the most popular smart security brands like Yale, August, Schlage, Alfred Kwikset, Kaadas, Alarm.com, Lockly, and Abode leverage Z-Wave technology because of its proven track record and reliability.   

The Z-Wave ecosystem consists of over 4,500 products that have been certified for interoperability. This means a Z-Wave smart lock seamlessly integrates with other Z-Wave devices, such as thermostats, sensors, or even leak detectors, to help maintain properties remotely and securely.

-Avi Rosenthal, Chairman of the Board of Directors | Z-Wave Alliance  

What are the most effective security measures you recommend for vacation rental properties?

We have a system set up where you can provide unique codes for each guest that are only active during their reservation. This gives us the flexibility to extend stays or allow early check-ins quite seamlessly with our other tools. In addition, our unique code system allows us to set temporary codes for vendors like handymen, plumbers, etc. Should they arrive late or on the wrong day, their code won’t grant access. As many other faction rental managers know, sometimes owners want master codes to access their property at any time. This can cause awkward or even unsafe experiences for guests. With our system, owners have a master code that works ONLY whenever the property is NOT booked, thus preventing an owner from intruding during a guest stay.

-Jacob Mueller, Co-Founder & CEO | Renjoy

Investing in smart locks is one of the most effective home security measures for your short-term rental. Smart locks provide convenience for both you and your guests and offer enhanced security by allowing remote access control and monitoring. With features like temporary passcodes and smartphone connectivity, you can easily track who enters and exits the property, giving you peace of mind when managing multiple guest turnovers.

Another essential aspect of home security for short-term rentals is installing outdoor surveillance cameras. These cameras are a visible deterrent to potential intruders and provide valuable evidence in the event of a security breach. Opt for weather-resistant cameras with motion detection and night vision capabilities to ensure comprehensive coverage around your property. Additionally, informing guests about the presence of surveillance cameras can serve as an added layer of protection while also promoting transparency.

-Camille Moore, Creative Content Writer | RealManage

Why Choose a Smart Lock for Your Airbnb? 

Choosing a smart lock for your Airbnb is crucial. Unlike traditional hotels with front desks, most Airbnb properties don’t have a physical check-in point. Smart locks offer seamless guest entry, eliminating the hassles of physical keys. When integrated with your property management system and a smart device management software like SuiteOp, smartlocks get new superpowers for security and efficiency. Each guest receives a unique access code that expires after checkout, ensuring tight control over property access. Staff members also have their individual codes, providing a comprehensive entry log. Smart locks also excel in distributed property operations, allowing you to grant access from anywhere using a smartphone or computer. In summary, smart locks are indispensable for modern short-term rentals, simplifying guest experiences and enhancing security.

–Simon Seroussi | SuiteOp 

What measures can hosts take to secure valuables in their home during short-term rentals?

To safeguard host belongings, the best first step is to either lock away or remove any valuable items. Additionally, add a smart lockbox or lock so you can control access to your property. Visible cameras and alarm systems are also great ways to deter thieves and, at the very least, provide evidence, but of course, be respectful of your guest’s privacy. Implementing a thorough guest screening process is also crucial in minimizing the risk of bad or untrustworthy guests. Once you’ve screened your guests, make sure to communicate expectations regarding the security of your home, such as locking doors and windows when they go out. Finally, find yourself a local contact or property manager who can address security concerns and assist guests if you’re unable to. 

–Connor Griffiths | Lifty Life Hospitality

What are some ways to secure the host in their short-term rental business? 

Keeping your short-term rental business safe requires you to be proactive and then reactive.

Proactively, you want to know who is staying in your homes. At Safely, we love seeing the guest’s ID. Not only do you have more certainty of the guest’s identity, but the guest also knows that you know who they are. They will think twice before getting extra crazy.

We also like to check sex offender lists because this screening helps to keep your community safe. When you can, you also need to track guests who have destroyed homes or tried to extort money from you by finding imaginary problems. 

No matter how diligent you are, you can never prevent everything. The right insurance coverage goes a long way. We don’t like damage deposits because guests don’t like you holding their money, and the cost of any damage will likely be more than you collected. We also don’t like credit card holds because guests will often win a chargeback dispute with their credit card company. We find that a specialized insurance policy that covers damage, theft, intentional acts, and your own liability provides the best protection for our hosts.

-Andrew Bate | Safely 

What are the most effective security measures you recommend for vacation rental properties?

We have a system set up where you can provide unique codes for each guest that are only active during their reservation. This gives us the flexibility to extend stays or allow early check-ins quite seamlessly with our other tools. In addition, our unique code system allows us to set temporary codes for vendors like handymen, plumbers, etc. Should they arrive late or on the wrong day, their code won’t grant access. As many other faction rental managers know, sometimes owners want master codes to access their property at any time. This can cause awkward or even unsafe experiences for guests. With our system, owners have a master code that works ONLY whenever the property is NOT booked, thus preventing an owner from intruding during a guest stay.

-Jacob Mueller, Co-Founder & CEO, Renjoy  

How can automation streamline the check-in and check-out processes for short-term rental guests?

Automation can transform the check-in and check-out processes for short-term rental guests into seamless experiences. By implementing smart locks and mobile apps, guests can access properties with ease, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Automated messaging systems can provide guests with timely information, such as Wi-Fi codes and house rules, ensuring they have everything they need upon arrival. For check-out, these systems can remind guests of departure procedures, helping to maintain the property’s condition and prepare it for the next visitor. By streamlining these processes, hosts can enhance guest satisfaction, optimize operational efficiency, and ultimately drive more bookings. Leveraging technology not only elevates the guest experience but also provides a competitive edge in the dynamic short-term rental market.

–Jordan Hollander Co-Founder | Hotel Tech Report

What are the benefits of online travel agencies (OTAs) in ensuring the safety and security of guests and properties?

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) have benefits that enhance the safety and security of guests and properties in short-term rentals. The first one is the guest verification process, which often includes identity checks and background reviews, helping hosts feel more confident about who they welcome into their homes. OTAs also provide secure payment systems, reducing the risk of fraud and ensuring that all transactions are tracked and documented.

OTAs help facilitate clear communication between hosts and guests. Through their platforms, hosts can easily share house rules, emergency contact information, and safety protocols, making sure guests are informed about security measures.

Some OTAs provide insurance or guarantee programs that cover property damage or liability, offering hosts financial protection in case of incidents. Overall, OTAs have several features that can help protect your property.

SiteMinder

How to Protect Your Vacation Rental from Scams & Fraud?

Running a short-term rental is already a considerable effort, especially when you want to create the highest guest experience (and revenue), even before dealing with scams and fraud out there.

Protecting yourself starts with using a trusted rental platform, whether verified OTA or your own bookings website. On an OTA, make sure to keep communication on the platform and document everything. It’s important to remember the scammer may be viewed by the OTA as a legitimate paying guest, so evidence is crucial. On your own website, have a strong rental agreement and make sure it’s signed by the person who is staying.

However, through any channel, stay on top of the communication and look for red flags. Bookings for other people, constant changes, lack of response or hard-to-understand messages, and even asking for discounts right away can be a sign that something may be awry.

-Jeffrey Breece | Beyond

How could you give maintenance to locks from your short-term rental to protect your guests? 

Most of our properties have traditional locks. We always keep spare keys for these, as loss of keys is one of the most common problems with renters. We inspect these locks regularly, keep them lubricated where necessary, and use trusted and vetted locksmith contractors to deal with any issues. These are the same core locksmiths we use to address any lock-related maintenance requests from renters.

Some of our properties now also have smart lock solutions. These allow keyless entry, so eliminate the “lost key” problems. We can also manage the key codes to allow temporary access for cleaning staff or maintenance staff. Some of these smart solutions also provide remote monitoring so that we can track property access, though this is not yet a common feature.

Lock maintenance is essential to protect the owner’s property and ensure the safety of tenants.

Greg Bacheller | Real Property Management Colorado

Why is it important to keep extra linen inventory locked away from guests?

Keep extra inventory locked away from guests is our number one recommendation for our Airbnb Laundry Service clients,” according to Mark Vlaskamp from 2ULaundry.

If you’re an experienced Airbnb host, you know that your guests will open every drawer, closet, and storage bin that you have. And, if you haven’t experienced this yet, you will! This is especially true with guests staying more than one night.

If you store your extra inventory in an unlocked closet, it WILL be used. This is most common with towels. It’s perfectly normal to stock extra linens for the guests to use as needed. But be sure the majority of your inventory is kept safe.

We see it way more than you think. A guest uses 80 pounds of laundry in a weekend stay. Lock it up to be safe…

Lock them away in a place that only you, your house cleaning team, and your Airbnb linen service have access to.

Mark Vlaskamp | Commercial Laundry Service

What are the essential smart devices for enhancing home security, and how do they contribute to overall safety?

Integrating new smart home devices into your security system can significantly enhance safety and convenience. Key devices include smart locks, which allow keyless entry and remote access, ensuring you can control who enters your home even when you’re away. Video doorbells provide real-time front door monitoring, deterring potential intruders by capturing video footage and sending alerts to your smartphone when someone approaches. Smart cameras and motion detectors can cover vulnerable areas, instantly alerting you to suspicious activity.

Smart smoke detectors and flood sensors add another layer of protection by notifying you of environmental hazards. Integrating these devices into a unified system allows for seamless automation, where, for instance, a motion sensor can trigger an alarm or alert authorities. Overall, these smart devices enhance security and offer peace of mind by allowing homeowners to monitor their property remotely.

Gearbrain.com

By implementing the recommended strategies, hosts can protect their property and cultivate a reputation for safety and reliability, ultimately enhancing the overall success of their short-term rental venture. Stay informed, stay secure!