Recent research has shed light on a growing concern: neighborhoods with higher densities of Airbnbs are experiencing increased crime rates. A study by the University of Pennsylvania highlights how the transient nature of short-term rentals can lead to antisocial behavior, disturbances, and even violent crime. For rental hosts, this isn’t just about protecting your property—criminal activity can bring legal troubles, harm your reputation, and create friction with neighbors.
The best defense? A strong screening process that helps you identify red flags before they become major problems.
Here’s how you can tighten your screening process to keep criminals out without creating unnecessary friction for legitimate guests.
Require Verified IDs with Photo Matching
Start with the basics—know who’s booking your property. Require all guests to submit a government-issued ID as part of the booking process and ensure it matches the profile photo on the booking platform. Some hosts make the mistake of only verifying IDs for the primary guest, but this leaves room for others in the group to act as potential bad actors.
When reviewing an ID, check:
– Does the name match the booking details?
– Does the photo resemble the person in any uploaded images or video calls?
– Are there signs of tampering, like blurred text or inconsistent fonts?
You can use tools or platforms like Autohost to automate the ID verification process and reduce manual work.
Leverage Background Checks for High-Risk Bookings
Not every booking requires a deep dive into someone’s background. But for longer stays, large group bookings, or high-value properties, running a background check can provide an extra layer of security.
When using background checks, focus on:
- Look for past convictions related to property damage, theft, or violent behavior.
- Watch for patterns of identity theft or financial fraud.
- Guests with a history of eviction could bring complications.
While background checks add friction, being transparent about their purpose can build trust with responsible travelers.
Set Clear House Rules and Enforce Them
Your house rules can deter unwanted guests before they even book. Be explicit about unacceptable behaviors, such as parties, illegal activity, or exceeding guest limits. Use your platform to reinforce these rules and follow up with messaging that confirms guests agree to comply.
Use noise monitors to track sound levels without invading privacy. Smart locks can control entry to specific areas, such as garages or basements. Perform visual checks if you live nearby or hire a local co-host for routine visits during extended stays.
Screen Payment Methods for Fraud
Fraudulent bookings often involve stolen credit cards or unconventional payment methods. Use a payment system that flags suspicious activity, like mismatched billing addresses or multiple failed attempts.
– Require payment in full before check-in.
– Avoid cash payments or money transfers, which are harder to trace.
– Ensure the payment details match the ID of the booker.
Use Guest Communication to Gauge Intent
Criminal activity often starts with vague or evasive communication. Pay attention to how a potential guest responds to your questions, especially if you’re asking about the reason for their stay or the composition of their group.
Look for red flags, such as:
– Unwillingness to provide basic information.
– Last-minute bookings with little explanation.
– Requests to bypass your booking platform’s rules or pay off-platform.
On the flip side, guests who communicate clearly and offer detailed answers are often more trustworthy.
Monitor Booking Patterns for Suspicious Activity
Certain patterns can indicate a higher risk of criminal activity. These include:
One-night stays: These are often linked to parties or illegal activity.
Local guests: People booking near their own homes may not have legitimate travel needs.
Multiple bookings by the same user: This could indicate subletting or organized fraud.
By setting restrictions on one-night stays or requiring approval for local guests, you can reduce these risks.
Partner with Neighbors for Real-Time Alerts
Your neighbors can be your first line of defense when it comes to spotting unusual behavior. Build a friendly relationship with those living near your rental and encourage them to contact you if they notice anything suspicious.
To make this easier:
– Share your contact information with trusted neighbors.
– Provide guidelines on what constitutes suspicious activity (e.g., large groups arriving late at night or constant noise).
– Offer to follow up on their concerns immediately to maintain goodwill.
Incorporate Tech Tools for Proactive Monitoring
Technology can automate much of the work involved in keeping your rental safe. Smart devices, sensors, and software can help you stay on top of potential issues without being invasive.
Recommended tools include, noise detectors, security cameras, and AI-based screening systems.
Platforms like Autohost can analyze guest data for suspicious patterns and flag high-risk bookings.
Use Rental Agreements to Protect Yourself
While platforms like Airbnb offer some protection, having your own rental agreement ensures you’re covered in specific scenarios. Your agreement should include:
– Clear guest limits.
– Rules about subletting or unauthorized guests.
– Penalties for property damage or violations of house rules.
Ask guests to sign the agreement electronically before confirming their booking, and keep a copy for your records.
Act Quickly When Red Flags Appear
No screening process is foolproof, and occasionally a questionable guest may slip through. The key is to act swiftly if problems arise.
Here’s what to do:
Contact the guest immediately and address any complaints or concerns in a professional manner. Involve local authorities if criminal activity occurs, document everything and call the police. Report the guest to the platform.
Having insurance designed for short-term rentals can also help cover costs if things escalate.
Criminal tactics evolve, so your screening process needs to stay ahead. Set aside time every few months to assess what’s working and where gaps exist. Consider feedback from neighbors, co-hosts, or property managers, and stay informed about emerging threats in the rental industry.