Renting out your home on Airbnb can be lucrative, but it does come with risks. As an Airbnb host, it’s important to take precautions to keep your property secure and avoid problematic guests. Here are some key safety steps hosts should take before handing over those keys.
Verify Guest Identity
Require that all guests show a valid, physical ID that matches the name used to book the reservation. Cross reference the ID with their Airbnb profile info and photo to confirm it’s legitimate. Be wary of guests who make excuses why they can’t provide matching identification.
Run Background Checks
While Airbnb conducts limited background checks, hosts can take it a step further by using a service like Crimcheck. This isn’t foolproof, but running comprehensive background screenings on each guest can flag any criminal records, registered sex offender status, or other red flags.
Vet Guest Ratings and Reviews
Scan the guest’s Airbnb profile to check for positive reviews from other hosts. Someone with all 5-star ratings is ideal. Be cautious of guests with no reviews or ratings at all, as that makes vetting difficult. Also google the guest’s name to uncover any concerning online history.
Confirm Reservation Details
Make sure the details of the booking reservation match up with what the potential guest tells you. For example, do the dates align with their stated travel plans? Is the number of guests what you agreed to? Clear up any inconsistencies before approving the stay.
Set Clear House Rules
Spell out rules and policies covering noise, pets, smoking, events, timely check-out, etc. This sets clear expectations upfront. Reiterate rules at check-in too. With well-outlined policies, you have recourse if a guest violates the agreement.
Conduct In-Person Check-In
Rather than providing key codes, personally check-in each guest yourself. This gives you the chance to meet them, ask questions, and look for any red flags. Pay attention to your instincts and gut reactions. Turn down requests to leave keys in lockboxes.
Limit Entry Keys
Only supply guests with keys for the exact duration of their stay. Collect the keys back at checkout rather than letting the guest return keys on their own later. This prevents copies being made and keys falling into the wrong hands.
Inspect Premises After Stay
After checkout, do a quick inspection of your Airbnb, looking for any damage, missing items, or mess left behind. Also check for any unfamiliar items left behind by guests, which could be a security risk if containing hidden cameras.
Change Door Locks Between Guests
Resetting codes on all smart locks and changing over physical keys between each guest is smart. This ensures previous guests can’t re-enter your property later even if they copied keys.
Install Security Cameras
Interior and exterior security cameras allow you to monitor the property and track guests coming and going. Make sure to disclose any cameras upfront in your listing. Consider obvious cameras to deter misconduct too.
Connect Smart Home Devices
Linking devices like smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and motion sensors to your smartphone allows you to remotely monitor your property. Enable real-time mobile alerts for any concerning activity.
Renting out your home comes with risk, but taking prudent precautions allows you to minimize exposures as an Airbnb host. Just remember to balance safety measures and guest screening with providing quality customer service. With thoughtful policies in place, you can help protect your property without sacrificing great guest experiences.
