7 security tips for vacation rentals

Investing in a property for vacation rental is a great business opportunity that, well managed, can be a source of significant income.

Having a property to rent out on vacation also entails a series of responsibilities and risks that must be efficiently assumed in order to prevent any risk or accident that may endanger the safety of the property and guests.

Having said that, in this post we will discuss a series of recommendations to ensure the security of vacation rental.

Best security tips for vacation rentals

1. Hire a home insurance

It will be totally convenient to hire an insurance that protects the housing against all types of unforeseen events or damage, whether fortuitous or intentional, as well as any damage to guests or the surrounding property.

There are several types of insurance for vacation rental housing, such as:

1. Civil liability insurance, which offers protection to the guest, the owner, and covers damages to third parties such as neighbors or the community in general. Depending on the autonomous community, it may or may not be mandatory.
2. Guest insurance or advertising platforms, some rental housing platformsoffer it, which includes legal liability for injuries or damages suffered by guests or other people, and damages caused by the guest in common areas and nearby properties.
3. Multi-risk insurance, offers total protection to the housing, including the assets of the person renting, in addition to civil liability coverage. It is one of the most comprehensive policies.

2. Develop safety rules and protocol

It will be important to put in writing the rules of use of the vacation property, including a security protocol related to the handling of appliances, as well as remembering the importance of keeping doors and windows closed when leaving the property, smoking area if applicable, among other points.

A directory with emergency phone numbers and instructions for each situation, translated into several languages, must be included.

It will be relevant to include these regulations in the contract and communicate them in a timely manner to the tenant, in order to avoid confusion and disasters and to leave a record of their responsibility.

3. Check the good condition of the housing before offering for rent

It is essential that the owner takes care of preparing the property that will be offered for rent, in order to take care of every detail and guarantee the safety of the guests.

It should be noted that this action includes the efficiency of the entire property's infrastructure, furniture and appliances that it owns, as well as those related to services.

It is necessary to review everything related to the prevention of tripping and falling, with anti-slip floors or mats, also incorporate in certain areas such as bathrooms, support bars and general conditions that facilitate accessibility to guests with difficulty mobilizing or using wheelchairs.

It is done as a control measure and to guarantee the optimal condition of the property before delivering it to the tenant, in order to ensure their safety and good stay.

4. Install a safe

One way to offer security for valuables and documents of tenants, is by incorporating a safe into the property, where jewelry, money, and other valuables can be stored.

A great option is to install camouflaged safes, which offer discretion and increase the security of what they contain. There are some that can be embedded and are not distinguished in the decoration of the house.

5. Have security systems and alarms

Homes and vacation homes can be empty for some periods, so it is appropriate to have security systems installed, such as cameras, access controls, and alarms that offer alert connection to the authorities in case an intruder tries to force doors or windows to enter.

It is a very important measure, not only to avoid theft, but also to protect the dwelling from the so-called squatters, who can cause many inconveniences and problems for the owner, particularly complicated in cases related to secondary dwellings.

In cases where rental properties have this type of security system, it will be necessary to promptly notify tenants of their existence.

6. Have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

It is essential to protect vacation rental properties from fires, since fire represents one of the worst risks to which a property may be exposed.

For this reason, having a smoke and carbon monoxide detector that works efficiently will be of great help. This type of device must be located in strategic areas of the dwelling, covering each floor, the outside of the bedrooms, as well as each area indicated by law. It will also be necessary to carry out timely revisions and corresponding maintenance to ensure its optimal operation.

The dwelling must include at least one fire extinguisher, as well as a fire blanket, in a duly marked and accessible location for guests.

Within the rules of use and safety of the dwelling must be incorporated related to fire prevention, requesting not to leave candles lit or careless near flammable materials, nor within reach of children or pets. As well as recommendations that invite users to unplug appliances when not in use.

7. Safe storage for cleaning products

It is important to have a storage area for cleaning products, pool maintenance, or any other substance that may be toxic that guarantees the safety of guests.

It will be relevant to also include in these areas indications on their use, as well as what to do in case of poisoning.

Preferably, this type of product should be located in high places, under lock and key, and out of the reach of children.

Conclusions

Every owner of a vacation rental property must be aware of the importance of offering and guaranteeing the safety of their guests, as well as that of their property.

And if you don't have a vacation home yet and you're thinking of buying one soon, it will be a great alternative to count on the support and advice of expert professionals like those at Javea Real Estate, who will help you locate the best options for vacation homes, villas, and chalets on the spectacular Costa Blanca in Alicante.