Airbnb to ban hosts from using indoor security cameras
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Airbnb is set to ban its hosts from having indoor security cameras in their properties beginning next month, the company announced Monday.
Airbnb currently allows indoor security cameras in common areas of a home, such as a living room or a hallway, provided that the camera is easily visible and is disclosed in the listing before booking.
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However, starting April 30, security cameras will not be allowed indoors at all. Cameras were already prohibited in bathrooms and sleeping areas.
“Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb,” Head of Community Policy and Partnerships Juniper Downs said in a statement. “These changes were made in consultation with our gusts, Hosts and privacy experts, and we’ll continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community.”
The company said a majority of its listings don’t report having indoor security cameras.
“I would never stay at a place that had cameras inside,” said Dr. Genevieve Dobson, an Airbnb host since 2012. “It’s just uncomfortable. It’s an invasion of privacy.
Outdoor security cameras will still be allowed, as long as they’re not pointing at indoor spaces or other areas like outdoor showers or saunas. The general location of the cameras must also be disclosed prior to booking.
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Doorbell cameras and noise decibel meters are also still allowed.
“There has been a growing concern and growing scenarios where the privacy issue has surfaced,” said Aminta Goynes, a board-certified realtor. “One person’s expectation of privacy and what that looks like is going to be different from someone else. That’s where we have to strike the balance and start having those conversations.”
Airbnb said Hosts found in violation of the new camera rules will be investigated and may have their accounts and/or listings removed.
The company has been working in recent years to crack down on guests using houses for parties by implementing reservation screenings and allowing neighbors to file complaints about disruptive behavior.
In September, a child was killed during an unauthorized party at a Airbnb in Polk County.
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