Elevator Access Control for Short-Term Airbnb Guests

Operating short-term Airbnb rentals in condominiums can generate strong revenue, but it also brings security and compliance challenges. One of the most sensitive points is the elevator—the space that directly connects unfamiliar guests to residents’ living areas. Therefore, elevator access control for short-term Airbnb guests is no longer an option, but a prerequisite for this model to operate sustainably.

Why Do Airbnb Hosts Need Elevator Access Control?

elevator access control for short-term Airbnb guests in condominiums

Security Risks Without Control

Failing to control elevator access means anyone who enters the lobby can go to any floor. With short-term Airbnb rentals, this creates several risks:
• Guests going to the wrong floor and intruding into private areas
• Unauthorized individuals following guests to apartments
• Loss of control during incidents, making tracking and investigation difficult

Pressure From Condominium Management

Many management boards are tightening Airbnb regulations. Without a clear elevator access control solution, apartment owners may face:
• Warnings and formal notices
• Revocation of access to shared amenities
• Even requests to stop short-term rental operations

Common Elevator Access Control Methods Today

Elevator access control methods for short-term Airbnb guests

Access Cards
• Common in many condominiums
• Easy to deploy but difficult to manage for Airbnb
• Risk of loss or card duplication

Time-Based QR Codes
• Each booking generates a unique QR code
• Automatically expires at checkout
• Well suited for short-term Airbnb rentals

FaceID and Biometrics
• No card, no phone required
• Premium experience with precise control
• Suitable for serviced apartments and mid- to high-end segments

Integration of Access Control With Elevator Systems
• Allows guests to access only the authorized floor
• Records real-time entry and exit logs
• Can be connected with smart door locks

The Right Solution for the Short-Term Airbnb Model

Remote elevator access control solution for short-term Airbnb guests

Principles for Choosing the Right Solution

An effective solution should meet the following criteria:
• No dependence on personnel (reception, security staff)
• Automatic granting and revoking of access based on bookings
• Easy to demonstrate security compliance to management boards

Real-World Deployment Model
Many apartment owners apply the following model:

1. Guest books on Airbnb

2. System sends QR Code/FaceID valid during the stay

3. Elevator allows access only to the apartment’s floor

4. Checkout → access rights are automatically revoked

Checklist for Implementing Elevator Access Control for Airbnb

Elevator access control checklist for short-term Airbnb guests

Preparation Before Installation

• Coordinate with the condominium management board
• Define whether the model is short-term or long-term Airbnb
• Select suitable technology (QR, FaceID, access card)

Operation – Training – Monitoring

• Provide simple usage instructions for guests
• Regularly monitor access logs
• Prepare contingency plans for forgotten credentials or access errors

Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp Của Chủ Căn Hộ Và Ban Quản Lý

Is elevator access control mandatory when operating Airbnb?
It is not legally mandatory everywhere, but it is almost operationally mandatory for long-term sustainability.

Which solution is most easily accepted by management boards?
Systems with clear access logs, floor restrictions, and defined stay durations.

Is the cost high?
The cost is far lower than the risks of security incidents or being forced to suspend operations.

Elevator access control for short-term Airbnb guests is a key factor in balancing profitability, security, and compliance. The more professional the apartment owner, the more confident the management board becomes—and the more sustainable the Airbnb model will be in the long run.