The Role of External Security Cameras at Airbnb Properties: Rules, Benefits, and Real-Life Examples

The safety and security of short-term rental properties have become a significant concern for hosts worldwide.

As an Airbnb host, ensuring your property remains protected while respecting guest privacy is a fine balance. External security cameras, particularly doorbell cameras and motion-activated CCTV, play a crucial role in maintaining security.

However, Airbnb has strict guidelines about their use, and hosts must adhere to these rules to avoid penalties or even suspension from the platform.

In this blog, we will cover Airbnbs policies on security cameras, the importance of transparency with guests, and real-life situations where external CCTV cameras have proven invaluable.

We’ll also highlight our go-to choice for surveillance: the Arlo Essential Series cameras, discussing their features, WiFi range, and effectiveness in short-term rentals.

Airbnb Rules on Security Cameras

Airbnb allows hosts to use external security cameras but enforces strict policies to ensure guest privacy is not violated.

Here are the key rules every host should be aware of:

1. Disclosure Is Mandatory as Hosts must clearly disclose the presence and location of security cameras in their Airbnb listing. Guests must be aware before booking that the property is monitored externally.

2. No Indoor Cameras - Inside the home, including in common areas, are strictly prohibited. Airbnb has a zero-tolerance policy on hidden cameras.

3. No Cameras in Private Spaces - Security cameras cannot be positioned in a way that invades guest privacy, such as overlooking windows, bathrooms, or bedrooms.

4. Reasonable Placement - External cameras should be placed in obvious, non-intrusive locations, such as driveways, front doors, and backyards, solely for security and property monitoring.

5. No Real-Time Monitoring of Guests - While cameras can be used to review footage in case of incidents, constantly monitoring guests in real time may be considered an invasion of privacy.

Hosts who fail to comply with these rules risk suspension or removal from the platform.

The Importance of Transparency With Guests

Security cameras serve a dual purpose: protecting the property and ensuring guest safety. However, the key to using them effectively is clear and honest communication with guests.

Listing Disclosure: The presence of cameras should be mentioned explicitly in the Airbnb listing. A simple statement such as, For security purposes, external cameras are located at the front and rear entrances, ensures transparency.

Message Guests Before Arrival: A reminder in the check-in message can reinforce awareness. Example: For security reasons, we have external cameras covering the front entrance and driveway. These do not monitor private areas.

Signs on the Property: Visible signs indicating security cameras are in use deter unauthorised activities and help guests understand they are in a monitored environment.

By setting expectations early, hosts can avoid misunderstandings and ensure guests feel comfortable during their stay.

When Security Cameras Saved the Day

External cameras have proven to be invaluable tools for protecting our Airbnb property on multiple occasions. Here are two real-life examples where CCTV footage helped us avoid significant losses and unjustified penalties.

Incident #1: Party Prevention and a Guest Ban

One evening, we noticed unusual activity at our property through our security cameras. The person checking in was not the guest who booked the property (a clear violation of Airbnbs policies)

Moments later, more people arrived, and it became evident that an unauthorised party was about to take place.

Thanks to our security cameras, we were able to:

Immediately contact Airbnb support, providing video evidence that the listed guest was not present.

Shut down the party before it escalated, preventing potential damages and noise complaints.

Have the responsible guest banned from Airbnb, ensuring they couldn’t repeat this behaviour at another rental.

Without camera footage, proving this violation would have been difficult, and we could have been left dealing with significant property damage.

Incident #2: Disputing a False Review After a Party

In another instance, a guest booked our property for a “quiet stay” but later hosted a birthday gathering with loud music and multiple visitors. When we noticed the disturbance via our external cameras, we immediately contacted the guest and requested that they stop.

Instead of complying, the guest denied everything and later left a spiteful two-star review, accusing us of making false accusations. This kind of review can significantly impact a hosts ranking in the Airbnb algorithm.

Fortunately, we had clear video evidence showing the number of people entering and leaving the property. After submitting the footage to Airbnb support, the inaccurate review was removed, preventing long-term damage to our listings reputation.

These cases highlight why security cameras are essential for Airbnb hosts to not only prevent unauthorised activities but also serve as crucial evidence when disputes arise.

Our Favourite Security Camera: The Arlo Essential Series

When choosing a security camera for an Airbnb property, reliability, ease of installation, and good connectivity are key. Our top recommendation is the Arlo Essential Series cameras, and heres why:

Key Features of the Arlo Essential Series

• 100% Wireless - these cameras operate on WiFi and do not require complex wiring, making installation simple.

• Extended WiFi Range - With a strong signal, these cameras can connect even from the farthest corners of a property, especially when paired with an Arlo base station.

• 1080p HD Video & Night Vision Clear footage, even in low-light conditions, ensures round-the-clock monitoring.

• Motion Detection & Alerts - Instant notifications allow hosts to respond to any suspicious activity in real time.

• Weather-Resistant Design - Built to withstand rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor placement.

• Two-Way Audio - Allows hosts to communicate remotely if needed, providing an additional layer of security.

With Arlos smart detection features, false alerts are minimised, meaning hosts only receive notifications for genuine activity.

The Importance of Smart Doorbells in Airbnb Properties

Alongside security cameras, smart doorbells (such as the Arlo Video Doorbell or Ring Video Doorbell) are another valuable investment for Airbnb hosts. These devices provide:

• Live Video Feeds - Hosts can see who arrives at the property in real time.

• Motion-Triggered Alerts - Guests or unauthorised visitors cannot go unnoticed.

• Two-Way Communication - A great feature for assisting guests remotely or confirming the identity of visitors.

By integrating a smart doorbell with external security cameras, hosts can maximise security while maintaining a non-intrusive monitoring approach.

Final Thoughts

External security cameras are an essential tool for Airbnb hosts, ensuring the safety of their property while preventing unauthorised activities. However, they must be used within Airbnbs guidelines, with full disclosure and respect for guest privacy.

Real-life experiences demonstrate just how crucial CCTV footage can be when preventing unauthorised parties or disputing false claims. With high-quality devices like the Arlo Essential Series cameras and smart doorbells, hosts can maintain security without compromising guest comfort.

If you’re an Airbnb host looking to protect your property and reputation, investing in reliable security cameras is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

Happy Hosting!