Smart Locks: your key to a more secure and connected home

Gone are the days of the old padlock and key: the era of modern, innovative smart locks has arrived.

Although replacing your ancient deadbolt lock with a modern smart lock may require a small portion of your budget, it comes with a number of useful (no pun intended) advantages and benefits that will save you a lot of time and money in the long run...There's a reason they're called "smart" locks!

The best smart locks for Airbnb allow property managers to manage and customize access to their properties hands-free, avoiding unnecessary complications such as lost keys and forgotten access codes, by replacing the old traditional key with an electronic system that unlocks upon receiving a wireless signal from an authorized smartphone or code .

Smart locks for Airbnb come in different shapes and styles. While some designs (such as the code lock) completely replace the handle and deadbolt, other locks can be installed just above the handle.

The common denominator is an electronic system that allows property managers to remotely manage who is authorized to open the door at any given time.

Most models allow multiple user codes to be programmed, making it easier to create and delete unique codes for guests. These Airbnb door locks are typically battery-powered, with a lifespan of about 2-3 years.

In most cases, they can be installed in less than half an hour, using a screwdriver to remove the keyhole on the back of the door if necessary. Once the system is in place, it is useful to test a few smartphones to ensure that the authorization is working properly.

Teach your Airbnb guests how to use the new smart lock

Not all of your guests will be as tech savvy as you are. If you are implementing a smart lock system for your short rental properties, you should provide guests with instructions on how to use the compatible smart lock app. Since most models come with an automatic lock feature, the guest will only need to download the app and turn on Bluetooth when they arrive home.

For guests who have difficulty understanding this modern technology, smart locks can be opened the old-fashioned way with a traditional key.

In addition to smart entry, smart locks can also be opened with traditional keys and cards.

Do you have a property and are thinking of allocating it for short term rental? Leave your details here to receive a free estimate and be contacted as soon as possible

Frequently asked questions: About smart locks

Still have doubts? We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Airbnb's smart locks:

1. Where can I get a smart lock for my Airbnb?

Most smart lock models are not found in stores and must be ordered online from the model's website.

2. How smart are smart locks?

Most models allow property managers to grant wireless access to guest phones by sending a digital code. In addition, access can be restricted for a specific period of time, such as to cover the duration of the guest's stay.

In addition, smart locks keep track of who is on your property, letting you know when and which authorized phone opens the door.

NB: Smart locks can only be applied to a single door. If a property has multiple doors or entry points (e.g., entrance gates), you will need to purchase and manage multiple smart locks for the property.

3. What happens if a guest's phone dies?

No stress! All smart locks can be opened with a traditional key. Alternatively, you can open the door remotely for your guests.

4. What if the WiFi doesn't work?

Most smart locks work via Bluetooth, so they are not subject to network interruptions. Again, all models can be opened with the old traditional key.

5. What happens if the power goes out?

Smart locks are typically battery-powered, so they turn on and continue to work even in the event of a power outage. Many models not only have sensors that warn when batteries need to be replaced, but also send an e-mail reminder.

6. How secure are smart locks?

In short: very secure. When a smart lock communicates with a smartphone (by sending digital access codes or receiving signals), all data exchanged is protected by 128-bit encryption, the same level of security found in online banking.

With smart locks, some have expressed concern that the phone in your pocket may automatically unlock the door as you approach the peephole to see who is outside. However, some advanced smart locks take this eventuality into account and can detect whether the signal is received from inside or outside and act accordingly. This scenario can also be avoided with precautionary measures such as simply disabling automatic unlocking.

In conclusion, a smart lock is no more or less secure than a traditional lock.

Do you have a property and are thinking of allocating it for short term rental? Leave your details here to receive a free estimate and be contacted as soon as possible

The best smart locks for your Airbnb

To help you find the best smart lock for your short rental properties, we have gathered (in no particular order) 5 of the best hardware and software smart locks that can be found on the market right now:

-Vikey has 3 impressive smart lock products: facilitates a completely contactless check-in process that can be automated and completed with minimal input from the property manager.

With the Vikey App, guests can submit all necessary documents and payments and access the house independently by entering the reservation code.

You property manager can monitor the arrival and departure of guests while respecting their right to privacy and optimizing time and costs.

- With SCLAK, your phone becomes the key; it is a secure access control system that allows you to integrate all of your property's door locks into a simple and secure system, operated through an electronic locking device and a smartphone app.

It is easy to install, compatible with all electric, electromagnetic, or electromechanical locking devices, and features a military-grade SHA2 encryption protocol that provides enough security to make any apartment a secure home.

-Nuki Home Solutions is Europe's leading provider of retrofittable smart access solutions.

Nuki Smart Lock is a retrofitted electronic lock that can be installed inside the door in minutes, without the need to drill or change the lock. It turns the smartphone into a smart key, enabling property managers to control access to properties for guests, cleaning staff, employees and anyone who needs it.

-SwitchBot Smart Lock offers universal adaptability to different ports, with a rich set of accessories. It allows remote control via the SwitchBot Hub Mini, as well as convenient opening via code or fingerprint. Its ease of use and the ability to configure automations make it an attractive solution for improving the security and convenience of access to your home.

-Tedee is Europe's smallest, most durable and innovative Airbnb smart lock. The smart lock is an electronic device that can be installed inside any door without screws, holes or wires.

The mobile app and web portal replace traditional keys, enabling property managers to host intelligently with keyless check-in and automated access management, making the whole experience more convenient for guests, cleaners and property managers.

To be sure you are making the right choice for your properties, ask us at RentalPro: our decades of experience in the short rental industry will guarantee you great results, thanks to the professional management of hundreds of properties now broken in and recognized throughout the international scene.

Don't hesitate to contact us - RentalPro's Property Managers are here to help you maximize your business!

RentalPro Team