Best security systems for Airbnb or Vrbo vacation homes

We’ve all heard the stories: Guests who throw big parties, stolen items, a break-in at the home.

The good news: These are all preventable (or catchable) with the right security measures. Safeguarding a vacation home can be challenging for Airbnb and Vrbo hosts, who must balance security with guest privacy. We’ll break down what protective measures are allowed and highlight some cost-effective options available today.

Types of security systems

Deterring or catching any bad activity at your vacation home requires multiple fronts. We’ve outlined the main options here.

Security cameras

Most hosts’ instincts are to install security cameras to deter crime. However, recording in and around your property can violate your guests’ right to privacy. Not to mention violate Vrbo and Airbnb rules.

In general, the law doesn’t allow video surveillance in places or at times where guests have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Think outdoor pools, backyard patios, and similar. However, security cameras at the front entrance of the home are allowed.

Smart locks

Keyless vacation rental locks are one of the smartest ways to secure access to your home. Some require guests to download an app to unlock them. Others allow homeowners to assign unique codes to guests during their stay and revoke them after check-out.

Vacasa offers a smart lock program to our vacation homeowners. We’ll find the best smart lock for your vacation rental and climate, install it, program it, and take care of any maintenance. Homeowners just handle the cost of the smart lock itself.

Video doorbells

Even though video doorbells typically face the front sidewalk (which is considered a non-private area), a doorbell’s audio recording feature could raise red flags. That’s because eavesdropping on guests and their conversations can infringe on guests’ rights. We recommend disabling the doorbell’s audio transmission first. Then, in most cases, you can continue to use the doorbell under the same guidelines as security cameras.

To maintain trusted relationships with our guests, Vacasa discloses any on-property cameras and any audio transmission in your vacation home listing. More importantly, Vrbo and Airbnb require this.

Noise monitors

Noise monitoring devices are non-invasive and only measure the overall noise levels at your location, instead of recording any conversations (which is unlawful). Again, Airbnb and Vrbo require you to disclose where these noise monitors are located within the home. Though, it’s important to note that they’re only allowed in common spaces (such as a living room, kitchen, and dining room), but prohibited in bedrooms, bathrooms, and sleeping areas.

Safety essentials—including a noise monitor and smart lock—are included with Vacasa’s full-service management.

Important things to consider

Here are the key things Airbnb hosts should consider when buying home security tools:

Where can you place cameras and recording devices

Both Airbnb and Vrbo don’t allow any security cameras inside a home and in any outdoor areas where guests have an expectation of privacy, like in the backyard pool and hot tub. However, video doorbells (recording the front entrance of the home) and noise monitors are allowed—so long as you disclose where they’re located in your property listing.

Integration with smart home technology

Airbnb hosts should seek security devices that are compatible with popular smart home platforms such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit. This gives you more control over what’s happening in your vacation rental at all times, while also automating any home processes.

User-friendly features

Look for intuitive mobile apps and easy-to-use interfaces so both you and your guests can quickly access and operate the system. Features like push notifications, remote access, and customizable settings are important.

Automation and monitoring

Hosts should look for security devices with automation capabilities, like motion-activated cameras, smart locks that auto-lock, and noise monitors that can detect disturbances. 24/7 professional monitoring services can also provide an extra layer of security.

Reliability

The security equipment should be durable, weatherproof, and have a proven track record of consistent performance. Make sure to research reviews and ratings to ensure the products are reliable.

Budget

Balance the cost of the security tools with the level of protection they provide your home and your guests. There are many affordable options available, but don’t forget to also consider the long-term costs of monitoring services and maintenance.

Highly rated security systems for vacation homes

Achieving peace of mind for your vacation home doesn’t have to be pricey or difficult. Many of these are smart DIY security options offering affordability and easy installation.

Security cameras

Nest Cam Outdoor

Integrates with smart home platforms, has motion detection and alerts, and provides clear 1080p video. As one review noted, "The video quality is fantastic and the motion alerts let me keep an eye on my property remotely."

Samsung Wisenet Smartcam

Offers 24/7 live streaming, two-way audio, and advanced motion detection. This allows hosts to monitor their property and communicate with guests when needed.

Blink Home Security Camera

Affordable, wireless, and easy to install with long battery life. This makes it a great option for Airbnb and Vrbo hosts on a budget who want a simple, hassle-free security camera.

Smart locks

Schlage Encode Plus

Allows remote locking/unlocking, integration with smart home platforms, and auto-lock features. As one reviewer commented, "Smart locks are a game-changer. They allow guests to check in independently and give me peace of mind that my home is secure even when I'm not there."

Yale Assure Lock SL

Sleek design, keyless entry, and compatibility with voice assistants. This provides a convenient and secure access solution for Airbnb and Vrbo hosts and their guests.

Schlage Sense

Provides keypad entry, Bluetooth connectivity, and integration with Apple HomeKit. The keypad entry is useful for managing guest access without physical keys.

August Wi-Fi Smart Lock

Simple installation, remote access, and automatic locking/unlocking. This smart lock makes it easy for hosts to control access to their property from anywhere.

Alarm systems, video doorbells, and noise monitors

Alarm systems

SimpliSafe, ADT, Abode, Arlo, and Frontpoint offer flexible, customizable security solutions with professional monitoring options for Airbnb and Vrbo hosts.

Video doorbells

Products like Ring, Arlo, Nest, and Eufy provide high-quality video, smart features, and easy installation to enhance security and the guest experience.

Noise monitor

NoiseAware is a discreet device that detects and alerts you to noise disturbances and possible parties, helping you protect your home and maintain good relationships with neighbors.

Overall, these top-rated home security products give Airbnb and Vrbo hosts the tools they need to protect their properties, provide a safe and seamless experience for guests, and run their vacation rental businesses more efficiently.