Surveillance Device Policy
Summary
Hosts are not allowed to have surveillance devices inside homes. Hosts may use devices outside of homes for security purposes only, we have strict rules about how they can be used—and how guests must be informed. Find more details on this page.
We consider anything that captures the following to be a surveillance device:
- Photos
- Audio recordings
- Videos
- Geolocation
- Personally identifiable information
- Data monitoring on the internet
Inside the property
Surveillance devices that use any form of capture device, such as a camera or audio recorder, can’t be used inside a home.
Exception: Smart devices that can’t be activated remotely are allowed, as long as guests have been informed of their presence and are given the option to deactivate them.
Outside the property
Surveillance devices, including security cameras and smart doorbells (which may record audio), are permitted outside of homes provided they follow these rules:
- Surveillance devices should only be used for security purposes, pointed towards an access point.
- External surveillance devices must not be angled so that they point towards or can view the interior of the home, such as a camera that points through a window.
- Hosts must disclose the location and coverage of these devices in writing on the property description page. It is not enough to include a photo of the device.
- If outdoor camera’s coverage area includes pools and spa pools, this must be disclosed both on the property description page and in a reasonably visible location on the property itself. This might include a welcome binder, notice on the wall of a high-traffic common area, or a sign next to the entry point. The notice must specify that the pool or spa pool can be seen by the device.
- Areas where you have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as outdoor showers, should not be under any form of surveillance.
- Reasonable measures should be taken to limit access to surveillance data.
- Surveillance data should be deleted when it’s no longer needed.
Noise monitoring devices
Hosts may install a noise monitoring device to address potential complaints from neighbors, but they must notify guests in advance by disclosing the device in writing on the property description page.
A noise monitoring device should only measure the sound level; it must not record private conversations.
How to get help
If a guest discovers what appears to be an undisclosed surveillance device, contact us immediately. We’ll investigate, and take appropriate action, including helping the guest find another accommodation through Bookabach Care™.
Enforcement
If we are made aware of a host violating this surveillance policy, and guests leave the home because of this violation, the host may be required to refund the entirety of the stay. Violations could also result in suspension or termination from our platform.
Please note: Bookabach does not own, operate, manage, control or inspect any property listed on our platform. Vrbo does not verify or guarantee the safety of any property, or the truth or accuracy of any property listing or other content provided on platform. Bookabach does not guarantee the safety or conduct of any host or guest.