The use of Smart Lock solutions for your vacation rental is a no-brainer. Key handovers can be time-consuming for both guest and host, and require a physical meeting to retrieve and return the key. Not to mention the back-and-forth communication to schedule a meeting time that suits both parties!
If you’re ready to say goodbye to in-person meetings and juggling guests’ availability then it's no wonder why you already know that smart locks will make your life much easier. They’re secure, convenient, and provide a tech-forward, seamless self-check-in (and out) experience!
The real question is, as a Host or Property manager.. where do I start?
In this article we cover lock types, integration partners with Smoobu, automatic code generation and general information to consider.
Automatic code generation via Placeholders
When considering using a smart lock and Smoobu perhaps you wish to have a unique code created per booking. The code will only be valid for the duration of the guest's stay and expires past the check-out date. If the integration has a Smoobu placeholder (example format of this is: [placeholder]) it will pull the uniquely generated code from the smart lock partner and show in Smoobu messaging and even in the Guest Guide.
It's best to choose a lock solution with a keypad for the code to be entered into. Choosing a smart lock product without a keypad will mean that the guest cannot use the designated unique pin code.
To see if your Lock Solution has a placeholder, it will say "yes" or "no" in the list of 3rd parties below. If there is no placeholder available for your preferred lock read on: What if my Lock Solution does not have a Placeholder?
Let's start with a list of Smart Lock / Home integrations that Smoobu partners with:
Lock solutions currently integrated with Smoobu
NUKI
Website: https://nuki.io
Message placeholder in Smoobu? Yes [nukiPin]
Description: Instead of searching for a hidden key under the doormat or organizing key handovers, your guests can simply and conveniently lock the door by entering a 6-digit entry code. The unique entry code can be automatically sent to guests from the placeholder above. Easy and secure!
Smoobu Article: how to use Smoobu + Nuki
IglooHome
Website: https://www.igloohome.co
Message placeholder in Smoobu? Yes [igloohomeLockCode]
Description: Let guests unlock your igloohome devices directly. Automate access generation according to your guests' reservations, sending a PIN code on your behalf while you focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Smoobu article: how to use Smoobu + igloohome
RemoteLock NEW!
Website: https://www.remotelock.com
Message placeholder in Smoobu? Yes [remoteLockPin]
Description: In very exciting news, Smoobu integrates with RemoteLock. This integration works with many different locks including August, HID, Kwikset, Schlage Encode and Yale (whom are all are all top-rated Smart Lock solutions)
Smoobu article: how to use Smoobu + RemoteLock
Operto
Website: https://operto.com/
Message placeholder in Smoobu? Yes [pincode]
Description: Operto offers a wide range of features including fully automated access systems to seamless guest entry, and Security and Noise monitoring. Operto curates many different devices available and integrates them into a central management platform. They connect to: Salto, Noiseaware, Yale, Netatmo, Tado, Nuki, August, Ecobee, Igloohome, Schlage, and many more.
Tedee
Website: https://tedee.com/
Message placeholder in Smoobu? Yes [tedeePin]
Description: Unlock automatically and remotely with a smartphone or smart home system. Grant your guests access to the place with a click in the app. It sends them an e-mail with registration links.
TheKeys
Website: https://www.the-keys.eu/en/
Message placeholder in Smoobu? No
Description: Smart access control, full control from your phone or create codes for a keypad.
Sclak
Website: https://www.sclak.com/en/
Message placeholder in Smoobu? No
Description: SCLAK is a secure access control system that includes an electronic
device and a smartphone app that allows you to integrate all your electronic locks into a simple and secure system.
Masunt
Website: https://www.masunt.com/en/
Message placeholder in Smoobu? Yes [codelocksArrivalCode] or [codelocksDepartureCode]
Description: Masunt specialize in stainless steel key boxes for the hand-over of keys. A key safe with a uniquely generated code allows for secure key handover.
What if my Lock Solution does not have a Placeholder?
Read on for a workaround solution! Smoobu has a placeholder called [pin4] which randomly generates a four-digit PIN per reservation/guest. Then you may enter it in your lock solution for that particular guest. Keep in mind this has a manual step you complete, and this will work with lock solutions who allow 4 digit pins.
First make sure to have a template like the suggestion screenshot below. This is configured so you will receive an email message to yourself, to notify you of the randomly generated 4 digit pin:
Then the steps are:
- Open the message you sent to yourself that shows the randomly created 4 digit pin. Let's say Smoobu generates it as: e.g. 9090. Copy this.
- Open your lock solution (perhaps from your smart lock mobile app) to program/elect the pincode as the generated code for the guest's booking access code (in our example it's 9090).
- In a message template shared with your Guest as the recipient, use [pin4] to advise them of their code. Perhaps you want to send this information 1 or 2 days prior to arrival. It can automatically be sent for each booking.
- The guest can use that pincode for their entry!
Types of locks
It's important to consider what type of lock you are looking for. Some lock systems will replace entirely the lock mechanism in the door. Whereas a Keybox still has a physical key, but an access code is sent prior to guest arrival and used to unlock the box, which is located nearby the entrance of the property.
Some solutions require a unique code sent to the guest ahead of their stay, and they enter it into the keypad on the door, during the duration of their stay. The code expiry is automatic, giving you peace of mind.
You may browse the above links to see the smart lock models on offer.
Keyless vs. Lockbox
If you are just starting out and don't wish to change the entire lock mechanism on the door, perhaps you wish to consider a Keybox (aka a Lockbox). You may have seen them before, they look like a large-scale padlock that is securely attached near the property entrance.
You can send the guest the code to open the Lockbox, so when they arrive to the property they are able to unlock the box with the code, and inside is the physical key. They can then access the property during their stay, and lock it safely away when checking-out. Simple!
The other advantage of this type of lock is if your accommodation is in a communal building you may not have to consider strict guidelines introducing this (some regions have set protocols when changing building or door security, and may need building management/tenant approval before changing deadbolts). This isn't a consideration with a Lockbox, and it is often a great entry-level solution!
Pictured above, the IglooHome Keybox 3E
Thinking of how you'd get the code to your guest? Use our Automated Templates or our Guest Guide!
Noise monitoring technology:
If you are concerned about loud parties disturbing the neighbours, you may consider using noise monitoring technology to ensure a respectful noise level and prevent out-of-hand situations.
Minut
Website: https://www.minut.com
Description: Monitor noise and occupancy, secure your home and enhance guest experience
Smoobu Article: How to use Smoobu + Minut
Operto
Website: https://operto.com
Description: Offers a wide range of features including fully automated access systems to seamless guest entry, and Security and Noise monitoring.
Key Storage solutions:
Simplify key exchange, deposit your keys at your choice of a local network for easy key collection and drop off. Can work for guests and also for maintenance/cleaners.
KeyNest
Website: https://keynest.com
Description: Key storage management! Simple and secure key exchange solutions for Airbnb hosts, serviced apartment operators and estate agents.
Smoobu article: How to use Smoobu + Keynest
Curious about our other integrations? Here is a list of all integrations that currently work with Smoobu.
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