According to Airbnb, this change doesn’t come without much thought and consideration. The company stressed that it consulted various organizations, privacy specialists, and even guests and hosts before changing the indoor security cameras policy.
As for outdoor cameras that show guests entering or leaving the property, hosts will be able to hold onto them. However, Airbnb is mandating that property owners make guests aware of these devices in their listing descriptions.
Saunas, outdoor showers, and other similar spaces designed for privacy, even outdoors, must remain camera-free zones, per Airbnb’s rules.
On Monday, the company expressed these policy tweaks will streamline its security camera rules, while also placing privacy first and foremost.
Some hosts may not like Airbnb’s policy change
Many hosts place indoor security cameras in their kitchens, living rooms, and hallways for their own protection.
These can be used as evidence if guests raise issues about the property after arriving; in extreme cases where someone trashes a listing (or if other disputes arise), Airbnb hosts with indoor security cameras have footage on their side as they seek recourse.
