Airbnb has announced a significant change in its policy regarding security cameras within listings, aiming to enhance renters’ privacy. Effective April 30th, the vacation rental platform will no longer permit hosts to use indoor security cameras, irrespective of their location or purpose. This shift comes in response to numerous reports from guests who discovered hidden cameras in their rentals, prompting Airbnb to prioritize the privacy of its users.
Previously, hosts were allowed to install security cameras in “common areas,” such as hallways, living rooms, and front doors. However, hosts had to disclose the presence of these cameras in their listings, ensure their visibility, and were prohibited from placing cameras in bedrooms and bathrooms. The new policy takes a more stringent approach by prohibiting indoor security cameras entirely.
In addition to the indoor camera changes, Airbnb’s updated policy introduces new regulations for outdoor security cameras. Hosts must now disclose the use and locations of outdoor cameras before guests make a booking. Furthermore, outdoor cameras cannot surveil indoor spaces, and there are restrictions on using them in areas with a high expectation of privacy, like outdoor showers or saunas.
The revised policy also mandates the disclosure of noise decibel monitors in listings. These monitors, used by hosts to gauge potential parties within their rentals, were banned by Airbnb in 2022. Airbnb’s Head of Community Policy and Partnership, Juniper Downs, stated that these changes were made collaboratively with feedback from guests, hosts, and privacy experts. The platform plans to continue seeking input to ensure its policies align with the preferences of its global community.
Hosts on Airbnb have until the end of April to remove indoor security cameras from their listings. Any reports of indoor cameras after this deadline will prompt Airbnb to investigate, with potential consequences including the removal of the host’s listing or account. While the new policy cannot eliminate the presence of hidden cameras, it aims to reassure users that compliant hosts are no longer permitted to install cameras throughout their rentals.
