Airbnb bans indoor security cameras

Airbnb will no longer allow hosts to use indoor security cameras, regardless of where they are placed or what they are used for. Airbnb said in an update on Monday that the changes to “prioritize tenant privacy” will take effect on April 30.

The vacation rental app previously allowed hosts to install security cameras in “common areas” of their properties, including hallways, living rooms and front doors. Airbnb requires hosts to reveal if they have security cameras in their listings and make them clearly visible, and bans hosts from using cameras in bedrooms and bathrooms.

Airbnb’s new policy also introduces new rules for outdoor security cameras, now requiring hosts to disclose their use and location before guests can book a place. Owners also can’t use outdoor cameras to monitor indoor spaces, or use them in “certain outdoor areas where there is a high expectation of privacy,” such as outdoor showers or saunas.

Additionally, listings must disclose noise decibel monitors, which hosts may use to gauge whether parties are taking place in their rentals — a practice Airbnb banned in 2022. “These changes were made in consultation with our tenants, landlords and privacy experts. “We will continue to seek feedback to help ensure our policies work for our global community. Juniper Downs, director of community policy and partnerships at Airbnb, said in a statement.

Airbnb hosts have until the end of April to remove security cameras from their properties. If a guest reports the presence of an indoor camera after that, Airbnb says it will investigate and may remove the host’s listing or account as a result. The new policy still won’t control the presence of hidden cameras, but it will at least give landlords who follow the rules some peace of mind by no longer placing cameras anywhere in their rentals.