Airbnb hosts and renters will soon be need to follow some new policies. Airbnb announced its updated rules just in time for the busy spring and summer travel season.
The biggest change is that Airbnb banned all indoor security cameras. The ban applies to any property listed on its site, worldwide. The company said the change simplifies its policies.
Until now, Airbnb allowed hosts to use indoor security cameras in common areas, including hallways and living rooms. The cameras needed to be clearly visible and mentioned on the listing page. Airbnb never allowed cameras inside sleeping rooms or bathrooms.
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The company said the policy changes are also to clarify what Airbnb expects from both hosts and renters.
Other Changes
In addition to the ban on indoor cameras, Airbnb is making clarifications to other rules, including the use of outdoor security cameras.
Airbnb will still allow doorbell cameras and other devices such as noise decibel monitors. Hosts are required to disclose the general location of any outdoor camera. The cameras are also not allowed in certain outdoor areas such as an outdoor shower or sauna.
The new policies take effect April 30, 2024.
Previous Issues
The policy update comes after the popular online vacation rental site announced “party ban” in August 2020. Nearly two years later the company said the ban worked and it became permanent.
Last fall, Airbnb began verifying listings across the US, Canada, Australia, UK, and France. The company expects nearly 1.5 million listings to be through the verification process and will receive a “verified” badge by the end of the month.
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Airbnb says it will investigate all reports of policy violations. The outcome of violations could lead to a property being unlisted or banned from the Airbnb platform.