How to Protect Your Short-Term Rental Property from Parties
I have a strict no parties policy on all my properties…and yet, people do it. They end up breaking furniture, clogging toilets, and/or having the police called on them by neighbors. Over the years, I've learned to spot potential party planners well. It's important to make a distinction when I say "party," by which I mean a big blow out party (that will inevitably damage your short-term or vacation rental property), and not those renters who just want to have a fun weekend with friends. Over the course of years of managing properties, the biggest different is that people who are looking to have fun with friends won't ask you if they can have a party. Their intentions aren't to do a big damaging affair but rather have a girl's weekend.
So how do you spot the partiers and protect your property from damages? Here are some key tips:
• Establish clear house rules:
Every time someone rents a property, I make it clear, both on the property profile and after that they cannot have parties. Airbnb will allow you to write the house rules on the property profile, so take advantage of this space to write the rules. They will also give an option to accept or deny reservations, so if you suspect they want to rent your property, you can ask potential guests if they're planning on doing so.
• Ask directly:
When I think a guest may be trying to rent a property for a big party, I simply ask what their plans are. Most folks don't try to hide it! If guests want to have a party, it's important that they rent a property that will allow them to do so.
• Be wary of holiday rentals:
There are certain times that trigger party mode, and the fastest way to tell if guests are going to throw a party is if it's a local trying to rent your place during Halloween or other big holidays. The other dates to watch for: New Year's Eve, graduation, spring break, Independence Day. If there are big universities in your area, check when their spring break and graduation are!
• Install noise monitors:
Just like I'm up front about outdoor cameras, I also let guests know that I have installed noise monitors. In most neighborhoods there are noise ordinances, so to make sure people aren't violating the rules, I set up noise monitors.
• Develop a good relationship with neighbors:
I once got a call from a neighbor letting me know that someone had called the police on the giant party happening next door, and I should come right away. The guests had trashed the house, and while I wasn't there in time to cancel their reservation, at least the neighbor let me know what was happening so I could deal with it. Neighbors will be your eyes and ears if something is happening, so make friends!