5 Smart Security Essentials Every Short-term Rental Should Have

Being a short-term rental host calls for more than just renting out your property. We’ve heard our fair share of horror stories: break-ins, damaged property, stolen items - the list goes on. But with the wonders of today’s technology, smart home security devices can help ease your mind and ensure that your investments are well protected and your guests are kept safe. Best of all, you can monitor any activity and control access to your rental, all from the palm of your hands.

From video doorbells to lockboxes, here are 5 security devices that all short-term rental hosts should definitely consider.

1. Video Doorbells

Most short-term rental hosts face this common dilemma - how do you ensure that your guests are abiding by the maximum number of party rules, without infringing their privacy? Look no further than video doorbells, where like its name suggests, functions as a doorbell but also as a security camera. All guests are recorded at the front door and are forced to be accountable if they invite any extra guests over or violate the no-pet policy. Furthermore, having a video doorbell will help to discourage burglars from attempting a break-in.

Ring Video Doorbell 4

Retailing for USD 199.99, the Ring Video Doorbell 4 is one of the best in the market. With its HD night-vision feature, you can get a clear visual in case anything goes south in the middle of the night. You also receive real-time notifications so that you will always be aware of what is happening and can take immediate action when necessary.

2. Outdoor Security Cameras

If video doorbells don’t offer you enough assurance, investing in a security camera might do the trick. Security cameras are great for monitoring the exterior of your short term rental property from all angles, and emulating the feeling of protection that hotels give to guests.

Arlo Ultra 2 Wireless Security Camera

The Arlo Ultra 2 is a feisty contender among security technologies. Packed with newer and more extensive features to the Arlo Ultra, it comes with a 4K resolution and a 12x zoom so that you can easily pick out smaller details such as a car license plate. Its ultra-wide viewing angle allows you to cover more ground so that you will never miss a thing.

3. Smart Lockboxes and Locks

With the prospects for the short-term rental industry looking up, more hosts are looking for contactless solutions to help facilitate check-ins during these unusual times. While contactless check-ins are not unfamiliar to this space, Covid-19 has accelerated this shift, as it is not only safer but more efficient and cost-friendly in the longer run.

Lockboxes are an ideal solution. A smooth handoff process will not only leave a good impression for guests but allows hosts to have more flexibility around their schedule.

igloohome Keybox 3

The igloohome Keybox 3 easily connects to your Airbnb account via the igloohome app and using its unique algoPIN™ technology, automatically creates and sends PIN codes for each guest according to your listings. The Keybox 3 further allows you to track dates and times at which the Keybox is accessed so that you can easily monitor the arrival and departure of your guests.

If you find that keys are too much of a hassle and are looking for a more permanent solution, smart locks are a fantastic alternative. Unlike physical keys, installing smart locks also remarkably reduces the probability of keys getting lost or duplicated.

igloohome Deadbolt 2S Metal Grey

Apart from its sleek, stylistic, and universal design, the igloohome Deadbolt 2S Metal Grey packs many security features that can rival the big boys. Like the Keybox 3, it uses the same algoPIN™ technology and integrates directly with Airbnb booking and messaging systems.

4. Motion and Sound Detector

Short-term rental companies have been imposing stricter rules against parties even before the onset of COVID-19 due to the amount of disturbance these gatherings cause for neighbours. Sensory devices eliminate this threat whilst maintaining guest privacy, by monitoring noises, temperature and motions that indicate that a crowd is assembling.

Minut Smart Home Alarm

For a small monthly fee, Minut allows you to monitor multiple properties and access features such as noise and occupancy monitoring. It also comes with a Guest Connect feature, where if the noise level exceeds the threshold for a specified duration, Minut will start to flash, sound and even issue a text message to your guest. This serves as a warning to your guests and resolves the issue quickly and efficiently before it gets out of control.

5. Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector

Smoke detectors are vital to every short-term rental, for the early detection of fire in your property could mean the difference between life or death. However, if no one is around to hear them, they may as well not work at all. Here is where smart smoke detectors have an edge - though quite a jump in price compared to traditional smoke detectors, its connectivity alone is well worth the cost. Smart smoke detectors will alert you no matter where you are at so that you can react quickly in the event of an emergency.

First Alert Onelink Smart Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm

The First Alert Onelink Smart Smoke + Carbon Monoxide Alarm is one of the most comprehensive smart smoke detectors in the market. It detects fires faster than its traditional counterparts, wirelessly connects with other compatible smart alarms, and can alert occupants to the precise location of the smoke. Most importantly, it notifies you on your smartphone when the alarm is triggered so that you can immediately contact your guests to confirm whether it is a real fire or just a poorly cooked dinner.

You can’t put a price tag on safety.

Sure, security devices can be expensive, but they are critical not only in protecting your property but your guests’ wellbeing. As the sharing economy grows, so will its threats. Investing in smart security home devices will not only give your guests a greater sense of security but offer short-term rental hosts a greater peace of mind. And that feeling is worth every penny.