Running an Airbnb (or a portfolio of properties) has evolved from a quick-and-easy hobby to a professional and complex business for hosts. Among the many Airbnb management issues are security and environmental concerns as guests come and go.
In today’s increasingly demanding market, Airbnb hosts have to offer both hospitality and a solid sense of security for guests. Just one of the many pieces of the transition to running a mini-business.
Guests have real-world security concerns, to keep themselves and their property safe, to be sure they are safe unauthorized access, and a range of health and safety issues. Adapting every Airbnb listing to modern security standards is a critical part of both running and marketing. As well as keeping the hosts’ investment and property safe.
How Airbnb Hosts Can Protect Their Investment
Invest in Smart Security Technology
The first line of defense for Airbnb hosts and guests starts with a technology-focused approach to reassure all parties. Modern security systems are affordable and host-friendly, using smart locks to control access, and surveillance cameras for public areas.
This recent change comes after the decision from Airbnb on banning indoor cameras, for the protection of guests from unscrupulous or overly-demanding hosts. Additional security can be installed in the form of vape detectors, noise monitors and other features to combat anti-social behavior.
With cloud connectivity, hosts can be alerted about any breaking of the rules or a dangerous event, and respond accordingly to protect their property, keep the local peace, and prepare evidence if they need to deduct expenses or charges from the overall guest bill.
Whatever systems and technology are installed, it is required, as well as wise, to inform guests of these features to discourage any efforts at breaking the rules or gaming the system to their advantage.
Improve Your Airbnb’s Structural Security
Many people think technology is great, but there’s nothing like a chunky secure lock, business-grade window locks and anti-intrusion methods to keep an Airbnb secure. In urban or higher-risk settings, security doors, security solid-core lighting, alarm systems and clear security signage will help deter casual and serious intruders.
Garages, social storage areas and bike storage should have serious locks to protect them, with additional tamper-proofing and other deterrents. Such an approach is more likely to reassure a guest than put them off your property, and is certainly better than one with no such protection.
Check Out Guests With Secure, Transparent, Vetting
Is that guest who wants your Airbnb for three months really a high-flying executive? While Airbnb has its own verification protocols and systems in place, serious Airbnb hosts can do their own detective work using ID verification, guest forms, online and social checks to see they are who they claim to be.
Reviews, LinkedIn pages, company bios, along with other hosts’ references, can all help create a more rounded picture of a guest or family, and identify any potential risk that hosts can mitigate against.
Alongside the typical written guest instructions, you can also add local contact details if there is a security problem and you do not live in the immediate neighborhood. Co-hosts can share responsibilities for an area as back-up agents to sort out issues.
Along with their details, a range of emergency contacts and trusted neighbors can also help build a sense of community, especially for people travelling alone or new to your city or area. Trusted neighbors can also do unannounced drop-ins or drive-bys to make sure that everything is okay, and no misdemeanors are taking place.
The Long-Term Checklist
While Airbnb offers host damage protection and your own insurance might cover the building, you can benefit from short-term rental insurance products or packages for portfolios to add an extra layer of security.
When they check-out, ask guests if they felt safe and secure, as well as they typical host feedback questions, to see if you are giving your property the right atmosphere, and adjust if there is consistent constructive advice.
Finally, never sit still as a host, look to make continual improvements to the property in terms of the quality and smartness of your protective features. Combine smart tools, clearly-stated policies, and physical safeguards, along with a proactive connection with your guests to ensure that safe and welcoming feeling.
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