Airbnb updates camera, noise monitoring rules

Airbnb is implementing a global ban on indoor security cameras across all its listings. The San Francisco company, which previously allowed the use of cameras inside common areas of its properties as long as they were visible and disclosed on the booking page, announced a streamlined policy on Monday.

“Our goal was to create new, clear rules that provide our community with greater clarity about what to expect on Airbnb,” Juniper Downs, the company’s head of community policy and partnerships, said in a statement.

The company expects this policy change, effective April 30, to impact only a fraction of its 5 million listings, as most do not use indoor cameras. However, this isn’t the only rule change for Airbnb hosts, as the company is also revising regulations concerning outdoor security cameras, noise monitors and similar devices.

Here are 10 things to know about Airbnb’s policy changes:

• Indoor cameras are now prohibited in all Airbnb listings.

• Doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors that help hosts monitor home security and deal with issues like unauthorized parties are still allowed.

• Hosts are required to inform guests about outdoor cameras before booking.

• Outdoor cameras should not be positioned to monitor indoor spaces.

• Outdoor cameras are not allowed in private areas like outdoor showers or saunas.

• Hosts must disclose the use of noise decibel monitors, which are allowed only in common areas.

• Noise monitors cannot record or transmit sounds or conversations.

• The new policy takes effect on April 30.

• Reported violations after this date will be investigated, with consequences potentially including the removal of listings or accounts.

• Hotel listings on Airbnb can still use cameras in indoor common spaces such as lobbies, hallways and restaurants.