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Guest-proofing your place

Guest-proofing isn't about expecting the worst. It's about making the easy, safe choice the obvious one — for guests, for neighbors and for your property.

Safety first

Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a fire extinguisher, and a first-aid kit — check them at each turnover.
Secure railings and stairs, good outdoor lighting, and anti-slip mats in tubs.
Post the property's address and emergency numbers where guests will see them.

Entry without handing over keys

A smart lock or a lockbox lets each guest have their own code that stops working when they leave. No keys to copy, no keys to lose. See lockboxes & smart locks.

Noise and neighbors

Noise and occupancy sensors can alert you to a party in progress. Tell guests the devices are there — in your listing and house rules.
Never put a camera or recording device inside a home guests are staying in. Outdoor cameras, if any, should be disclosed and never point into a neighbor's space.
Give neighbors a way to reach you; some towns require a local contact. See noise & occupancy monitors.

House rules that work

Keep them short and specific: quiet hours, the most guests allowed, parking, pets, smoking, trash day. State them before booking and post them inside.

Protect the place

Mattress and pillow protectors, washable slipcovers, and rugs you can replace.
Lock away what you don't want used.
Take dated photos of each room so you can show a change.

Weather and seasons

In cold country, keep the heat set high enough to protect pipes between stays, know where the water shutoff is, and line up snow removal before the first storm. See repairs & upkeep.

Find the help

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