Self Checking Clarification

[Edouard180]

Hi,

I recently booked a listing that uses self-check-in, but I noticed they never change their passcodes. According to Airbnb resources, passcodes must be changed between bookings (https://www.airbnb.com/resources/hosting-homes/a/how-to-provide-self-check-in-for-smooth-arrivals-23...).

I'm considering using a similar approach for my own listing. Since support didn't indicate this was a safety issue, I'm wondering if changing passcodes is merely advice rather than a mandatory rule.

Cheers,

[Patricia2526 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Edouard180  

For security, I prefer to change the door passcodes after every booking. This helps prevent any former guests from re-entering the property after their stay and ensures the safety and privacy of our incoming guests.

[Joan2709]

@Edouard180 

I agree with @Patricia2526 that door codes need to be changed after every guest.

Imagine the liability if you didn't? Stolen property, previous guest intrudes in the middle of the night and assaults current guests? Guess who would be held responsible for not changing the door codes?

[Edouard180]

Airbnb officially replied to me that it is at the host discration to change the passcodes...

Cheers,

[Joan2709]

@Edouard180 

True...I never said Airbnb had a policy that Hosts were required to change door codes, only that it's probably a good idea for security and liability reasons to do so. Sorry if I wasn't clear about that. 

I would also suggest caution about Airbnb CS giving you "official" policy on anything, as that changes depending on which CS rep you speak to on any given day. Airbnb doesn't seem to even comply with their own written policies, much less something verbal or in a CS chat. Many Hosts have been told one thing by Airbnb, only to find out that was not the case when push came to shove.

Cheers

[Deb5175]

Exactly. It's up to the host. Clearly, it makes more sense to change it. I use the guest's last 4 digits of their phone number to help them remember it. My lock can be scheduled from the app on my phone. On the other side... if you have a key that is held in one of those realtor type boxes, what is to stop a guest from duplicating the key during their stay?

[Elisa]

Hi @Edouard180 😊, 

Thank you for asking this question here!

I’m glad you’ve connected with other hosts to discuss.
What have you decided about the self check-in? Have you figured it out?

Don’t hesitate to let me know.