By Mark Kawalya
Airbnb has announced a significant policy shift, to boost the privacy of its property renting clientele. The company has prohibited property hosts from using indoor security cameras, regardless of their location or purpose. Going into effect on April 30th, the new policy aims to address guest concerns which have arisen from multiple guests discovering hidden cameras within rental spaces they were living in.
Before this, Airbnb allowed hosts to install security cameras in “common areas” like hallways, living rooms, and entryways. However, hosts were obligated to disclose the presence of such cameras in their listings and ensure their visibility. Bedrooms and bathrooms were strictly off-limits for camera placement. Under the new policy, hosts are entirely barred from using indoor security cameras, to safeguard guest privacy to the highest degree.
Moreover, the updated policy imposes stricter guidelines for outdoor security cameras. Hosts must now disclose camera usage and locations prior to guest booking. Additionally, outdoor cameras cannot monitor indoor spaces or occupy areas that have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as outdoor showers or saunas.
Additionally listings must now divulge the presence of noise monitors. These devices, employed by some hosts to detect parties or excessive noise, were banned by Airbnb in 2022. By mandating disclosure, Airbnb aims to foster transparency and uphold a serene atmosphere for all guests.
The decision to enact these privacy measures followed consultations with guests, hosts, and privacy experts. Airbnb acknowledges the value of feedback and strives to create policies that are conducive to its global community. Juniper Downs, Airbnb’s head of community policy and partnership, highlighted the collaborative approach behind these changes, saying “We’ll continue to solicit feedback to ensure our policies resonate with our global community.”
Hosts have until the end of April to remove any indoor security cameras from their listings. Subsequent to this deadline, Airbnb will investigate reports of indoor cameras and may take punitive measures, including delisting or suspending the host’s account.
