Did you know hotel occupancy reached 80% in May 2024? With travel booming and guest expectations higher than ever, safety isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s essential for standing out in today’s competitive Airbnb market. Last year, Airbnb’s global revenue soared to $48.9 billion (£37.37 billion), and hosts who prioritise safety are seeing those efforts pay off in bookings and positive reviews.
So, what can you do to go beyond simply offering a room? This guide breaks down five powerful guest safety measures that make your space feel secure and inviting—a place guests want to return to and recommend. From preventing accidents to preparing for emergencies, the right precautions can transform potential risks into tranquillity. Creating a safe, memorable experience isn’t just about meeting standards; it’s about giving both you and your guests true peace of mind.
Let’s dive into the essential safety tactics that every Airbnb host should implement to protect their property and welcome guests with confidence.
Essential Safety Measures to Implement
Here are the five essential safety measures that every Airbnb host should implement.
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Install Smart Locks and Use Secure Key Exchange Systems
Security begins at the entrance, and a secure entry system is one of the easiest ways to manage access. Conventional keys are prone to being lost or copied, whereas smart locks offer versatility and enable remote access control.
Practical Steps
- Invest in a reliable smart lock system that permits simple code changes for each guest turnover. This decreases the chances of unauthorised access, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your property’s security.
- Use a reliable digital key exchange system like Airbnb’s smart lock integrations or external services, such as Keycafe or August. These platforms provide tracking options for monitoring when and who accesses the property. They also remove the necessity for keys that guests might misplace.
Tips for Hosts: Inform your guests about the locking system and offer a brief tutorial. This welcoming action might make many visitors who are unfamiliar with smart locks feel more secure and comfortable during their stay.
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Equip the Property with Essential Safety Devices
Probable dangers in rental properties include fire, carbon monoxide leaks, and electrical issues. Detecting these problems early can prevent disaster, and confirming that these safety gadgets are operational for guest safety is important.
Practical Steps
- Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in key locations like bedrooms, kitchens, and hallways. To be proactive and responsible, regularly test the batteries to ensure they are working properly.
- Place fire extinguishers in convenient locations near the kitchen area, where accidents are more likely to happen. Ensure visitors easily see them and provide brief guidance on their usage.
- Post clear signs that show where the emergency exits are. Create a printed manual with emergency contacts and evacuation plans for guests to access quickly.
Tip for Hosts: Consider installing lights that turn on when they sense movement near exits and stairs. This helps to avoid accidents and improves visibility in emergencies at night.
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Prioritise Health and Cleanliness Standards
Cleanliness has changed from a desirable quality to a vital one. A tidy environment is crucial for guest comfort and contributes to guest satisfaction and property ratings. Studies show that Airbnb properties with a cleanliness score of 4.8 or higher saw a 20% increase in bookings compared to those with lower cleanliness scores in 2023.
Practical Steps
- Clean high-contact surfaces such as room door knobs, light switches, remote controls, and bathroom fixtures.
- Provide disinfectant wipes, sanitisers, and a well-stocked first aid kit for guests with minor injuries or illnesses.
- Ensure that your Airbnb listing clearly outlines your cleaning procedures to reassure guests that their health and safety are top priorities.
Tip for Hosts: Before each guest arrives, perform a thorough cleanliness check using a checklist of necessary cleaning duties to ensure no high-traffic areas are missed. This will contribute to consistently high quality and provide you and your guests with peace of mind.
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Set Up a Reliable Surveillance System for Exterior Monitoring
Surveillance of the outside of the property can discourage undesirable actions, protect property borders, and enable you to monitor crucial entry points while respecting guest privacy.
Practical Steps
- Set up a surveillance camera system to oversee entryways and other important areas, adhering to local privacy regulations. Ensure you’re upfront about the presence of these cameras in your description to prevent confusion and establish credibility.
- Consider doorbell cameras as a prudent choice for monitoring entries. You can verify guests, monitor deliveries, and detect unusual activity without being invasive.
- Utilise cloud storage as a secure backup for video footage, offering continued access if a camera is damaged or tampered with.
Tip for Hosts: Establish a system to notify you of motion activity at designated times, such as arrival and departure periods. This will allow you to remain updated without continual disruptions.
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Develop a Clear House Manual with Emergency Procedures
A guest knowledgeable about emergencies can help minimise risks for you and them by encouraging appropriate actions. Clear instructions can impact how emergencies are managed and help prevent misunderstandings.
Practical Steps
- Create a detailed house manual with emergency contact details, addresses of nearby hospitals, and guidelines for dealing with common problems such as power cuts or water leaks.
- Offer safety guidelines for using necessary devices like heaters, stoves, and electrical panels, particularly when they possess unique attributes that visitors may not recognise.
- Put the manual in a spot where it can be easily seen, like by the main entrance or in a welcome binder, and consider providing a digital copy before check-in for convenient retrieval.
Tip for Hosts: Encourage guests to read the manual upon arrival and emphasise vital sections like emergency contacts and appliance safety in pre-check-in communication. This demonstrates your dedication to their welfare and could encourage them to seek assistance.
Conclusion
Creating a safe haven for your Airbnb guests goes far beyond just sticking to the rules; it’s all about real care and attention. By embracing top-notch safety practices, you’re protecting your belongings and crafting an atmosphere where visitors feel genuinely secure.
Imagine the peace of mind that comes from implementing reliable entry systems and having emergency plans – it reflects your commitment to their well-being! When guests feel safe and valued, they’re more likely to return, recommend your place to friends, and cherish their experience for all the right reasons.
So, prioritise safety, to watch your reputation flourish as a reliable host!
