After 90+ hours of research and testing, we feel confident recommending Wyze Cam as the best security camera system for Airbnb. It delivers high-quality performance and features at an incredibly affordable price. The system is super easy-to-use and you can be sure to receive prompt alerts for every event.
We also considered the weatherproof Google Nest camera as our top pick since we love its seamless interface and smart capabilities, but the Wyze model’s value is hard to beat.
Fully loaded with all the features you may need, Arlo costs a bit more than some of the competition. However, Netgear appears to have thought of everything an Airbnb host may need. That said, be sure you really want all of these features, and make sure your wifi can support this system.
This is another fully loaded and therefore more costly option to many security solutions on the market. It’s also part of a family of high-tech, smart home products, meaning you can integrate it with devices like the Google Nest thermostat and hub.
This camera is a great deal and less expensive than many cameras on the market. It’s designed for indoor use and is very reliable. This camera is both ALEXA and Google Assistant compatible and comes with all expected features. It has a live stream that can be viewed at any time on the Wyze app, as well as a two-way speaker, and AI sound, motion, and person detection.
The Zmodo Wireless Outdoor Camera system offers lower video resolution. However, it’s cost point is also much lower. For the price, this device performs very well.
Heimvision offers another loaded option for your security camera needs at a low cost. It also offers other features, like zoom and tracking to take security to the next level.
The Kasa Cam is much more reasonably priced than some of its competitors and integrates well with other automated home systems. However, it’s not the most reliable when it comes to security alerts and sound quality.
This customizable security camera cost more than some of its competitors but features the ability to customize sound activation.
This indoor/outdoor security camera is outfitted with HD and Night Vision.
This cost-efficient wireless rotating dome IP Security Surveillance Camera allows for 360-degree coverage.
This easy to use HD security camera offers enhanced low-light capacity for a moderate cost.
This fully loaded security camera system allows you to arm, disarm, and view live streaming video from your Alexa-enabled devices.
We have all heard the horror stories about Airbnb guests that refuse to obey House Rules and hotel guests that spend their short stay destroying property. As a property owner, you are, of course, interested in protecting your investment. However, Is it necessary to protect your short term rental property with security cameras?
I’m sure that the answer is different for different people and for people with different intentions. It is clear that having camera footage can help a host when attempting to recoup money from an insurance claim. However, camera footage may not be necessary and can lead to a loss in income from your rental property if your potential client’s find the practice invasive.
Before deciding to invest in a security system for your rental property, you should be aware of the rules established by Airbnb regarding the use of surveillance devices. Airbnb allows hosts to use security cameras and recording devices within the exterior of their property and in common areas within the rental property. However, hosts are not allowed to place recording devices in any private space. Private spaces include any bathrooms, bedrooms, and spaces with fold out sleeping space. So, depending upon the layout of your space, there may be little interior space where you can reasonably place security cameras.
Not only are hosts not allowed to monitor private or potentially private spaces, but they are required to disclose the use of these devices prior to rental within their House Rules. If recording devices are not disclosed prior to booking, the renter has the right to cancel their reservation upon disclosure of the security cameras and recording devices. If the renter cancels the reservation upon disclosure of the recording devices, they will receive a refund and the host may be responsible for cancellation penalties.
Hosts who have been caught using surveillance devices without prior disclosure have been removed from the Airbnb community in the past and can face prosecution in accordance with local law. Hosts should also be aware that there are specific laws regarding audio recording in many states that may not be covered under normal disclosure of security cameras.
