Airbnb prohibits security cameras inside rented apartments. Exemptions that previously applied to certain areas will be abolished. The company has now announced this. The new requirements will come into force on April 30th. From then on, cameras in rented apartments will no longer be allowed to be installed in common areas such as hallways or living rooms. This was previously permitted if it was pointed out on the offer page and the devices were clearly visible. Cameras have only been banned in sleeping areas and bathrooms. The new regulation is intended to standardize the procedure. However, security cameras that face outside are still permitted.
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Only a few exceptions
According to the blog entry explaining the new requirements, cameras on doorbells or devices for monitoring volume remain permitted – but they are not allowed to transmit audio recordings. These are “effective, privacy-protecting” options for monitoring rented rooms and, for example, taking action against unwanted celebrations, it says. However, their existence must be pointed out to the tenants and the approximate location must be made clear. However, outdoor cameras may not be aimed at areas where a higher level of privacy is expected, such as a shower or a sauna.
Because most apartment rental offers do not contain information about a security camera, only a small proportion are likely to be affected by this new regulation, according to Airbnb. As soon as they apply from the end of April, evidence of violations would be checked and could result in the removal of an offer or even the deletion of the responsible account. The new regulation will not help against cameras that may be hidden. But at least this eliminates possible attempts at an explanation if one is discovered. According to Airbnb, the rule change was preceded by intensive discussions with various interest groups.
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