Requirements and regulations for surveillance devices

Our goal is to provide a trusted platform that puts safety and security first for both customers and partners. That trust begins with transparency. We expect partners to proactively inform customers of any kind of surveillance or recording devices located inside or outside of their properties. (See below for more info on the areas where surveillance devices are and aren’t allowed.)

The Facilities & Services section of the Extranet should be used to inform potential guests about any surveillance devices placed outside of the property or in common areas. This info will then be displayed transparently in the Safety & Security section of your property’s listing on Booking.com. 

To prevent any misunderstandings—particularly in home accommodation settings—we recommend informing guests about the presence of surveillance devices before they arrive (e.g. using Guest Partner Chat).

Violating these requirements and disclosure guidelines may result in a warning, suspension, or termination of your contract with Booking.com. 

Furthermore, you are responsible for ensuring that any use of surveillance devices adheres to local laws and regulations, including (but not limited to) privacy laws. 

What types of devices need to be disclosed?

Surveillance devices that must be disclosed include anything (any device) that can be used to monitor, capture, record, or transmit images, audio, video, or even motion. Common examples include—but aren’t limited to—(professional) CCTV, WiFi cameras, video doorbells with integrated microphones and cameras, decibel monitors, and motion detectors. No secret recording devices are allowed. 

Where are surveillance devices not allowed?

Private areas:

• Areas of the property that are exclusively rented by guests.
• Areas where guests have a reasonable expectation of privacy (e.g. changing rooms, toilets, showers, spas, saunas, or shared bedrooms in hostel environments).

Where are surveillance devices allowed?

CCTV outside property: Surveillance devices are allowed in outdoor areas such as entryways, yards, parking garages, or access roads leading to the property. 

CCTV in common areas:

• Common areas may differ depending on property type, but typically include areas that are shared by guests like lobbies, elevators, stairways, restaurants, laundry facilities, kitchens, and dining areas. If an entire property is rented by a booker, these areas aren’t considered common areas. 
• The lens of any camera or recording device that’s placed in a common area can’t be directed towards or include private areas.

To indicate the presence of security devices on the Extranet: 

1. Click the Property tab.
2. Choose Facilities & Services.
3. Scroll down to the Safety & Security section and indicate the presence of any CCTV devices.