A Guide To Using IoT To Improve Property Security

In this digital era, the security of your short-term rental properties can greatly improve if you use Internet of Things (IoT) technology. These sophisticated tools, ranging from smart locks and surveillance systems to alarms and connected sensors, can control access in real time and monitor activities for property owners or managers. 

This guide will reveal how IoT can be used for a more secure network, detailing the benefits and technology solutions so you can provide better cybersecurity operations. Whether you are handling one rental or multiple, with the help of these IoT solutions, you can keep your investment protected and give peace of mind to yourself and your guests.

What is IoT in home security?

The Internet of Things, known as IoT for short, is a common term in many different technology sectors. When it comes to home security it refers to a series of devices and systems connected together so they can communicate with each other and work to enhance the safety and monitoring of a property. These types of devices include things such as smart locks, cameras, sensors, and alarms.

Each system is connected to the internet, which makes it possible for short-term rental owners and managers to have real-time control and access data via their smartphones or other devices. You can remotely access and control the devices in the property, allowing for better automation, convenience, and greater protection against potential threats. 

Why should you use IoT to improve your home security?

There are several reasons why you should use IoT as a short-term rental owner to enhance the property’s security. Here are the main benefits you will experience:

• Enhanced control and accessibility: When your rental’s home security system is all connected together via the internet, it gives you greater access to monitor and control it. This isn’t just good for protecting guests, but it gives you peace of mind when you aren’t there.
• Real-time alerts and notifications: If your home security system ever picks up some unusual activity, such as someone entering the property when guests aren’t scheduled to be there, you’ll receive an instant notification. This allows you to act fast and protect your rental from potential threats.
• Automation and integration: Another benefit of IoT home security systems is that they can automate tasks. This includes things such as locking doors and setting alarms without having to take the time to do it manually. It also helps in case you or your guests forget to do so when leaving the property.
• Scalability and customization: When it comes to short-term rentals, they can come in a wide range of sizes and designs. Luckily, IoT home security solutions are scalable to any property and can be customized to meet the individual needs of your guests.
• Energy efficiency: The whole point of letting short-term rentals to guests is to bring in a good income. Before you can figure out your revenue, you have to subtract costs, and part of this is the energy used on the property. Luckily, many IoT security devices are energy efficient and therefore can reduce your overall costs.
• Deterrence and protection: A lot of the time, an intruder will target a property that looks like it has no security systems in place. Having state-of-the-art IoT devices on display, such as cameras and alarms, will deter these types of people and reduce the risk of any break-ins, keeping your guests safer. 

Types of IoT technology solutions for your property

As a short-term rental owner or manager, it’s up to you to decide what sort of IoT home security solutions you introduce into the property. Here are some of the main ones you can choose from:

Smart locks

A smart lock is a keyless entry system whereby property owners and guests can unlock doors with their smartphones, physical or virtual keys (keypads), fingerprint scans, and more. This lock is more innovative than other locks and provides advanced security with temporary codes, remote locking, door unlocking, and real-time access logs. 

One of the best uses for smart locks is in short-term rental properties, where on-site hosts can allow guests access within a few seconds rather than needing to drop off keys ahead of time. Moreover, the connection between some smart locks and other IoT devices makes it possible to coordinate so that one system can ensure safety by automatically setting up a security routine based on your requirements regarding alarm synchronization.

Smart cameras

There are smart cameras for real-time video surveillance that can be monitored remotely using connected devices like smartphones or tablets. They usually have motion detection, night vision, and 2-way audio, so you can see when someone is at the property (day or dark) and speak to them. There are also high-end intelligent cameras for separating people, animals, and vehicles using AI to eliminate false alarms. 

They may also interface with other IoT security systems to automatically set off alarms or lock doors when suspicious motions are detected. In the case of short-term rentals, smart cameras provide the most beneficial safety to guests, keep a check on property security, and can also act as an additional warning sign for trespassers who don't want to get caught.

Sensors

These devices sense door and window openings and alert you when motion is detected at a set distance. Environmental sensors, such as smoke, carbon monoxide, or water leak detectors, protect the property and occupants by giving early warnings of potential hazards. 

These sensors can also be combined with other IoT devices, such as smart cameras and alarm systems, to develop automatic reaction mechanisms against threats. With the help of sensors, property owners can track and respond proactively to security breach events, thereby increasing safety.

Alarms

If you have an IoT home security system, the alarm is your first line of defence, as it quickly responds to any identified risk. Smart alarms can be activated by motion detectors, door and window sensors, or other connected devices to alert both property owners and emergency services. The alerts sound loud alarms and flashlights, sending immediate push notifications to smartphones so emergency response personnel can take action.

In a short-term rental setting, these smart alarms can provide peace of mind to guests and property owners alike, whether it is by offering actual security or simply as a deterrent. Moreover, smart alarms can be achieved as a part of more widespread IoT systems offering a joint effort to strengthen security.

Best practices for maintaining IoT property safety

Once you’ve set up your short-term rental’s IoT home security system, you want to ensure it’s operating at its best capacity. Here are some practices you should follow to maintain your property’s safety as much as possible:

• Regular software updates: IoT devices should be updated to the latest version of the software. They keep on releasing updates in order to secure vulnerabilities, so updating regularly is a must-do job.
• Strong, unique passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for all IoT devices and the associated services. Do not use a simple default password but instead utilize a secure, assigned manager to save complex passwords.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Whenever possible, put an extra security measure on IoT devices and management apps with two-factor authentication. This Two-factor authentication is an additional layer of security for 2-step verification that makes it difficult for attackers to access someone's devices.
• Secure your network: Guard the security of your Wi-Fi system with a solid secret key and encryption, for example, WPA3. Secondly, set up a different network specifically for your IoT devices that keeps them apart from other valuable information.
• Regularly monitor device activity: Keep a vigilant eye on the activity logs of your IoT gadgets for any anomalies. The sooner you can identify unauthorized access or discover suspicious activity, the faster your response time could be to minimize security threats.

Considerations and challenges of IoT

When implementing IoT in home security, several considerations and challenges must be addressed. Privacy concerns are paramount, as IoT devices collect and transmit data that could be vulnerable to hacking. Compatibility issues may arise between devices and platforms, making seamless integration difficult. 

Additionally, the complexity of managing multiple devices can be overwhelming, especially for non-tech-savvy users. Cost is another factor, as high-quality IoT solutions can be expensive to install and maintain. Finally, reliance on internet connectivity means network outages could temporarily disable critical security functions, leaving properties vulnerable.

Summary

Security should be one of short-term rental owners' and managers' most important goals, and IoT systems can help with this. Various devices are available that can help keep guests safe and give you peace of mind that everything on your property is protected. It’s best to choose the best options for your property’s needs and set up the perfect network.

If you need some additional help controlling and protecting your short-term rental, Hospiria can help. We offer a property management software that automates a wide range of other services, from guest communication to bookings, ensuring everything in your rental runs smoothly. Contact us today for a free run-through of the software.