Italian Authorities Crack Down on Keyboxes for Short-Term Rentals Amid Safety Concerns

The Italian government has taken decisive action to regulate the use of keyboxes and automated check-in systems in short-term rental properties, citing safety and compliance concerns. These measures, outlined in a new directive from the Ministry of the Interior, aim to enhance guest identification protocols and prevent risks associated with unmonitored accommodations.

Keyboxes and keypad systems have become increasingly popular for enabling tourists to self-check-in to rental properties without requiring the host’s presence. However, their widespread use has raised questions about compliance with Italian law, which mandates in-person identification and reporting of guest details to local police within 24 hours.

In the directive, the Ministry underscored the risks of automated check-ins, warning that they could allow individuals to occupy rental properties without proper identification. This loophole poses potential threats to public safety, especially given the growing volume of short-term rentals across Italy, which is expected to surge with the upcoming Jubilee celebrations drawing an estimated 30-35 million tourists.

Government Response

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi emphasized the need for stricter measures to ensure compliance and enhance security. Speaking in Venice, he stated, “Automated systems fail to guarantee the legal requirement of verifying the identity of guests accessing the accommodation service.” Piantedosi also highlighted recent cases, including an incident in Padua where a homeowner lost control of their property due to illegal occupation under the guise of a short-term rental.

The directive explicitly prohibits automated check-ins without physical verification, citing concerns that digital submission of identity documents alone could allow unidentified individuals to occupy properties.

Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè praised the initiative, calling it a critical step for both security and the overall quality of Italy’s tourism industry. She stressed that ensuring proper identification not only safeguards public order but also enhances the experience for visitors and hosts alike.

Industry Reactions

The move has drawn mixed reactions from stakeholders. Airbnb, during a recent conference in Turin, expressed its support for efforts to combat illegal use of keyboxes in public spaces and pledged to collaborate with cities like Florence, Rome, and Venice to promote responsible hosting.

Local officials, including Florence’s housing delegate Sara Funaro and Bari Mayor Vito Leccese, welcomed the directive as a necessary measure to address safety concerns and curb the rapid expansion of short-term rentals, which contribute to urban gentrification.

However, the Italian Short-Term Rental Managers Association (AIGAB) voiced reservations. While agreeing on the need to eliminate illegal street lockers, they argued that modern software used by professional operators already integrates advanced biometric recognition and secure codes. They warned that mandatory physical identification for short-term rentals could unfairly discriminate against the sector, potentially stifling Italy’s growing sharing economy.

Implications for the Future

The crackdown signals a broader effort by the Italian government to balance the booming demand for short-term rentals with the need for security and urban management. As Italy prepares for major cultural and religious events, authorities are prioritizing measures to mitigate risks and maintain public order.

With this directive, hosts and operators will need to adapt to stricter regulations, potentially reshaping the dynamics of Italy’s short-term rental market in the years to come.

Source: ANSA