Remote check-ins have become increasingly popular in Australia due to the rise of short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb. However, the use of lockboxes as a means of granting access to properties has sparked controversy and raised concerns about security.

Issues using lockboxes in Australia

Lockboxes, which are typically placed outside of properties, allow guests to retrieve keys or access codes upon arrival. While they provide convenience for hosts and guests, lockboxes can also be vulnerable to theft and misuse, as anyone with access to the code or key can enter the property.

Are lockboxes safe for storing keys?

Due to the ease with which lockboxes can be broken into, hosts are opting for other methods of key storage. There are numerous instructional videos on YouTube demonstrating various techniques for breaking into key safes, with a Google search yielding over 135,000,000 results for "how to break into a lock box," many of which are detailed explainer videos.

Are lockboxes legal to be used in Australia?

In response to these concerns, some Australian cities, such as Melbourne, have banned the use of lockboxes for short-term rentals altogether. Other cities have implemented stricter regulations, such as requiring hosts to provide a local contact person or using electronic locks that can be remotely managed. Click here to read more about these regulations.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to lockboxes that hosts can use for remote check-ins. Here are five options to consider:

KeyNest

KeyNest is a super convenient alternative to traditional key boxes that makes it easy for hosts to securely exchange keys and manage access for their guests and cleaners. With KeyNest's network of partner stores, there are over 4,000 locations all over the place where hosts can safely drop off keys for their guests to collect.

Through KeyNest's online portal and mobile app system, hosts can easily manage access, receive updates, and track the keys' movements, giving them peace of mind knowing that their property and guests are safe and secure. With KeyNest, hosts can skip the hassle of using key safes, save time and money, and provide a more reliable solution for remote check-ins.

Pricing: from A$9.99 per key collection or A$39.99 for monthly unlimited key collections. Click here to explore full pricing..

2. Smartlocks

Smart locks offer another alternative to traditional key boxes, allowing hosts to control access to their property from afar. With a smart lock, hosts can create personalized access codes and send them to guests via email or text message. Smart locks also offer advanced security features like schedule setting and access monitoring.

However, the downside to smart locks is that they can be pretty expensive, with costs adding up for installation, maintenance, and branded spare parts. Plus, if you ever want to switch to a different solution, you'll have to pay a big fee for removal. And if you live in a building with a communal entrance, installing a smart lock might not be possible unless all your neighbors agree to it.

Smart lock prices typically range from A$370 to A$900 for the lock itself, plus installation costs.

3. Meet and Greet Check-ins

Another option to consider instead of using a key box is to set up a classic meet and greet with your guests. This involves meeting them at the property in person and handing over the keys. This can be done by someone on your team or a hired freelancer. Although it requires more time and effort from hosts, it provides the chance to meet guests face to face, add a personal touch, and ensure that everything they need for their stay is in order.

However, this approach may not be suitable for everyone. With meet and greet, hosts have to coordinate closely with guests regarding their arrival time and be available at all times, including at night. In case of any travel delays, hosts may end up waiting for hours for the guests to arrive. Plus, if you manage more than three properties by yourself, it's practically impossible to meet every guest in person.

Pricing varies depending on factors like your commute time and waiting time, or a per-hour rate for hiring a freelancer to do the meet and greet.

4. Keyless entry systems

Keyless entry systems are becoming more popular as a secure and convenient alternative to key boxes. These systems usually rely on a smartphone app or a keypad for guests to access the property. Hosts can assign unique access codes for each guest, which can be quickly changed or removed as needed.

Keyless entry systems offer several benefits, such as eliminating the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of lost or stolen keys, and providing greater control over access to the property.

However, keyless entry systems may not be suitable for everyone. If your property has communal access, you won't be able to install it unless every apartment owner in the building agrees to it. Additionally, the installation and maintenance costs can be significant.

The price for a keyless entry system ranges from A$270-500, with installation costs on top.

5. Hide-A-Key

Another alternative for remote check-ins is to leave a spare key near the door, but this method is extremely unsafe. It involves leaving a key in an easily accessible location near the front door, such as under a flower pot or inside a fake rock, for guests to find. However, this approach carries a high security risk, and leaving a key in an obvious location can result in theft or break-ins. Hosts must provide clear instructions on where to find the key and stress the importance of keeping it safe during their stay.

It is not recommended to use this method as it poses a significant security risk. The cost of a spare key may be low, starting at A$20, but the risk of property loss or damage far outweighs the cost.

Airbnb Host Guide: 5 alternatives to lockboxes and key boxes for remote check-ins