Why WIFI Smart Locks & Passive Cameras Are Useful in Your Short-Term Rental
My short-term and vacation rentals typically have smart locks on the doors, and passive video cameras outside the units (motion sensor cameras) for one reason: safety. I want my guests to be safe, and I want the unit to be safe for my clients in case anything happens. Having both of these has proved to be useful for other reasons too which I didn't foresee. It has allowed me to help guests get into the units faster if they're having issues, and catch any problems that arise next to the unit (theft or break-ins).
Let's start with the smart locks on the doors—something not all buildings allow if you're unit is in an apartment complex or there's HOA rules. I check the rules before putting this on, and of course check with the owner to make sure they're comfortable with this. Installing smart locks can help you and your guest so much. Here's how:
• Assigning a special code per guest:
I assign a random number each time a guest leaves. There's not cap on the times you can change codes, so this is helpful when someone leaves—this way they don't forget to return a key, or don't go back inside if there's a new guest.
• Helping guests get into the unit if they're having trouble:
The first time this was most useful was late at night for guests with a baby. Their flight had been delayed and they were getting there past the time my greeter could meet them. They arrived and had trouble with the door, so they called me to get it open. From my app, I could see they had entered in the wrong code multiple times (they were tired). But I let them know, and they were able to quicky open the door and get in. This has happened multiple times.
• Save you from a requested refund because they couldn't open the door:
Your guests could be tired, overwhelmed, not paying attention—different of reasons—and not be able to get inside. This will frustrate them and could result in them calling the platform they booked you on, for example Airbnb, and saying they can't get in and ask for a refund. Having a smart lock will help them get in immediately if they reach out to you, and also prove to the platform that they didn't put in the right code and you shouldn't be penalized for their mistake.
• Monitor if the door is being opened:
The other benefit to this is you can see if anyone is opening the door when there shouldn't be anyone there. I especially appreciate this safety measure for my cleaners, as it's much safer for them to know that nobody has the new code (just them) and they aren't afraid of anyone coming back into the unit.
Outside Motion Sensor Cameras
In addition to the smart locks, you should also install outside motion sensor cameras in the outside areas of your units, including the front door, the backyard, and a balcony area (never facing inside the house). The main reason for this being safety for your guest and for the property owner. The WIFI connected cameras will erase all video every 3 days, and if you live in a sunny area, you can buy them with solar panel attached so they don't need to be re-charged. By installing motion sensor cameras, you can also make sure you have proof for any issues that arise from the platforms.