Short-term rentals are under constant scrutiny, with governments worldwide frequently introducing changes, amendments, and modifications. New rules and obligations for property hosts are regularly established, and stricter frameworks are often applied regarding pricing policies and general operations.
Hosts, whether individuals or companies, find themselves in a state of perpetual upheaval, striving on the one hand to comply with every new directive, and on the other, to upgrade their services with the aim of providing the best possible guest experience. As part of this ongoing improvement, electronic locks have gained significant ground in the short-term rental sector over recent years.
But what exactly are electronic locks, and how many types are there?
What do we mean by electronic lock?
Electronic locks are devices that allow guests to enter a property using a code, a mobile application, or Bluetooth, instead of a physical key. They are an ideal solution for automated check-in and enhance security, as the risk of lost keys is eliminated.
Some electronic locks offer the possibility of remote access control. All such locks operate with a code set by the host. Some connect via an app on the guest’s mobile phone, while others use a code sent to the guest prior to arrival.
Below, we will examine in more detail the options available and the ways in which you can utilise electronic locks according to your needs.
Lock boxes
Lock boxes (also known as key safes or wall-mounted key boxes) are the simplest and most economical solution for hosts who do not wish to be physically present at check-in. Although they are not strictly considered electronic locks, they remain the primary option for providing access to the property via physical keys.
Essentially, it is a small box in which you place the keys to your Airbnb property. Externally, it features either a numeric keypad or a combination mechanism. The code is sent to the guest prior to their arrival at the accommodation and is changed with every new booking.
It is important to note that, if your Airbnb property is located in a block of flats, the installation of a lock box requires the consent of the other owners.
Keypad lock
As the name suggests, this is a lock that allows access to the property simply by entering a code that you have sent to the guest’s mobile phone. In this way, there is no risk of lost keys and, consequently, no need for immediate replacement of the mechanism or door lock, along with any associated costs. In short, it is a solution that relieves you of this particular worry.
Smart locks
Smart locks are mechanisms installed on the door, which is usually reinforced. They operate via an application on the guest’s mobile phone or Bluetooth, with the code sent to the guest prior to arrival. The code remains active for the duration of the booking and changes with each new reservation.
With this method, the key difference is that the guest must install the relevant application that connects to the specific smart lock.
Electronic locks and security
All of the above methods are secure options for both guests and hosts. The main “sticking point” concerns smart locks, as their use requires the guest to download an application onto their mobile phone. In practice, this means the guest is “obliged” to install the app to access your property (it goes without saying that this should be clearly stated in your short-term rental listing, so guests are informed before booking).
The issue with the app is that, according to recent changes effective from 10 May 2025, smart locks are only permitted if their use is optional and not the sole means of accessing your property. This is because guests were previously required to create an account on the relevant application, providing their full name, email address, and telephone number—thereby disclosing personal information, which is contrary to GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).
The Sparrow team contacted Airbnb for clarification and received written confirmation via email that the use of a smart electronic lock does not, under any circumstances, constitute a violation of the platform’s updated terms of use, provided that its use is clearly stated in the property description.
Check-in with physical presence
On the other hand, traditional check-in with physical presence offers personal contact and the opportunity to answer questions or resolve any queries. Handing over the keys in person is an ideal solution for older guests or those travelling for the first time and unfamiliar with the methods outlined above. However, this approach requires the host to be available and may involve additional time or staffing costs.
It is worth noting that in neighbouring Italy, the government recently introduced a measure requiring the host’s physical presence at check-in, in order to maintain security and public order. Hosts are required to check guests’ documents and submit them to the authorities within 24 hours. However, a significant court decision ultimately overturned the Italian government’s ban on self check-in for short-term rentals.
Ultimately, self check-in or physical presence?
There is no single “correct” answer—it all depends on the profile of the property and the guests. Often, a combination of automation and personal service where needed proves to be the ideal solution, resulting in higher ratings and a better guest experience.
As there is currently—at least for now—no directive in the country prohibiting electronic locks that do not require a third-party app, whichever option you choose, guest safety and experience should remain at the forefront.