I just wrote to AirBNB advocacy at: getinvolved@airbnb.com
I would encourage EVERYONE to write to them. Here is what I wrote:
I wanted to make another comment, that I IMPLORE you to re-assess the recent indoor security camera ruling. I am asking that you consult with good hosts to come up with a solution that benefits ALL concerned; Guests, Hosts and AirBNB alike.
If we can have a way to disable, or for the guests themselves to have control in disabling any interior cameras, then those cameras can be there for the times that the residence is not being hosted, which is most of the time for me. I must have security when the house is vacant, but I have no need for those cameras when the house is rented. Tearing out a multi thousand dollar system is really a bad option, and jeopardizing the security of my property is not wise.
We are in partnership; you at AirBNB and ourselves - the property owners, and ultimately we are responsible for the safety of our investments without which we will not have properties to rent together. My home was broken into by a homeless drug addict vagrant who stayed there very recently and, thanks to footage obtained, the Police were able to apprehend the culprit and prevent further break ins and damage in my neighborhood.
Can we PLEASE not come to a better arrangement? For example, the cameras could be disabled prior to a guest’s arrival AND the guest can be provided with a physical method by which they themselves can shield / cover the disabled cameras for more additional confidence? I am sure that you would have OVERWHELMING support from our community for a thought out policy, one that could be embraced by all of us Hosts.
By the way, this aforementioned scenario is how it has operated for me since I have started and I have had NO questions from guests, ZERO complaints or comments, and all of my guests have even appreciated the additional security that we provide to them during their stay.
Please do not let a few bad apples ruin everything for all of the fine Hosts out there that bring favor and success to the AirBNB platform.
Sincerely,