What Airbnb Owners Can do to Protect Their Properties – and Their People

Short-term rentals offer many perks for owners, including flexible income, remote management, and access to a global market. But a horrifying incident in South Florida has spotlighted one of the sector’s darkest vulnerabilities: when something goes wrong, and no one is on-site to intervene.

In late March, a woman cleaning an Airbnb property in Fort Lauderdale was allegedly raped by a man who entered the home while she was working. The victim has since filed a lawsuit.

The accused has not yet been identified. While the criminal investigation unfolds, many Airbnb owners asking: What could prevent something like this from happening again?

Owners can be held liable, even from afar

A growing number of Airbnb hosts don’t live anywhere near their properties. Some manage multiple listings in different states. But distance doesn’t absolve responsibility.

In this case, the victim is suing the Airbnb host, along with the man she claims assaulted her. Even though the host wasn’t on-site and may not have known the assailant, legal exposure is still a real risk. Attorneys may argue that the property lacked adequate security, especially if there was a history of break-ins or if the door was left accessible.

Surveillance helps before and after the crime

Installing security cameras on the exterior of a property is one of the simplest and most effective deterrents available. Visible cameras near entry points can dissuade opportunistic crimes and help law enforcement identify suspects if something does happen.

Smart locks and video doorbells add another layer of control. Some systems let hosts track when doors are opened, assign time-limited codes to vendors, or even receive live video when someone approaches the house. For remote owners, these tools can be a lifeline to understanding what’s happening on their property in real-time.

However, it’s critical to follow privacy laws. Surveillance must never be placed inside the home or in private spaces like patios that guests or workers expect to be private. Transparency in monitoring is also key.

Protect contractors with check-in/check-out protocols

Many Airbnb owners rely on cleaning services, handymen, or local contractors. These workers often enter the home alone and may be vulnerable during those visits. Establishing a system where cleaners check in and out with a manager, app, or dispatch contact can provide a small layer of accountability.

Hosts can also work with cleaning companies that offer bonded, insured services and background-checked workers. In turn, hosts should share known concerns about the neighborhood, previous safety issues, or anything that could help staff stay alert.

Insurance can help, but it has limits

Airbnb does offer a $1 million Host Liability Insurance policy, part of its “AirCover” program, but that doesn’t automatically mean hosts are fully protected from legal action. The platform’s fine print excludes many scenarios, including incidents that involve gross negligence, criminal acts by hosts, or shared liability with other parties.

Savvy hosts may want to purchase supplemental short-term rental insurance. Policies are available from providers like Proper Insurance, Slice, or CBIZ and may offer broader protections, especially for lawsuits involving third-party vendors like cleaning crews.

Prevention matters more than optics

In the rush to automate short-term rental management, safety protocols are often overlooked. But relying on keyless entry and self-check-in isn’t enough to keep a property truly secure. Airbnb owners have a responsibility not only to their guests but also to the workers who keep their businesses running.

This case in Fort Lauderdale is a tragic reminder that short-term rentals aren’t immune from violent crime. Taking action now — upgrading locks, installing security systems, tightening contractor procedures, and investing in proper insurance — can help prevent the unthinkable and protect everyone who sets foot on the property.