How to Set Up a Smart Lock System for Short-Term Rentals or Airbnb Homes

Posted on 5th, Apr 2025

Secure, Streamline, and Simplify Your Guest Access with Help from Locksmiths Perth 247

Managing a short-term rental property—whether on Airbnb, Stayz, or another platform—comes with a unique set of challenges. One of the biggest headaches? Managing key handovers and access control.

Lost keys. Locked-out guests. Re-keying costs. Late-night meetups.
Sound familiar?

Luckily, there’s a smarter solution: Smart locks.

Smart locks have become a must-have for modern hosts and property managers in Perth, offering flexibility, control, and security. At Locksmiths Perth 247, we’ve helped dozens of Airbnb and short-term rental hosts implement reliable, guest-friendly smart lock systems—and this guide will show you how you can do the same.

🔒 What Is a Smart Lock, and Why Use It for a Short-Term Rental?

A smart lock is an electronic door lock that allows keyless access via:

• PIN codes
• Bluetooth or Wi-Fi-enabled apps
• Remote unlocking
• Temporary guest access codes

This means no more physical keys, no more rekeying, and no more meetups. Guests check in using their phone or a code. You stay in control 24/7, no matter where you are.

🏡 Why Smart Locks Are Perfect for Airbnb and Short-Term Rentals

Let’s break down the benefits of using a smart lock installation for your Perth rental property:

1. No More Lost Keys

Physical keys can get lost, stolen, or copied. Smart locks remove this risk by using temporary digital codes.

2. 24/7 Self Check-In

Your guests arrive at 10 PM? No problem. With smart locks, you don’t need to be there—just give them a code.

3. Better Security

Change or revoke access codes instantly between guests. No need to worry if someone made a copy of the key.

4. Remote Management

Using your smartphone or management app, you can lock or unlock your door from anywhere.

5. Guest Satisfaction

Quick, seamless check-ins boost your Airbnb ratings and reduce back-and-forth messages.

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up a Smart Lock System

Here’s a complete overview of how to set up a smart lock system in your Perth short-term rental, with expert tips from the Locksmiths Perth 247 team.

Step 1: Choose the Right Smart Lock for Your Property

There are dozens of models on the market, so how do you choose? Start by considering:

• Door Type: Timber, aluminium, or uPVC—each may require a different fitting.
• Connectivity: Choose between Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z-Wave (often integrates with smart hubs).
• Access Types: PIN code, smartphone app, fingerprint, or keycard.
• Battery Life: Look for at least 6–12 months of battery life.
• Backup Access: Some models include a manual key override.

Popular brands we recommend in Perth include:

• Yale Assure series
• Samsung Smart Locks
• Igloohome
• Lockly Secure Pro
• Schlage Encode

💡 Pro Tip from Locksmiths Perth 247: Don’t go for the cheapest option—spend a little more for quality, reliability, and better support.

Step 2: Hire a Professional for Installation

You might be tempted to install the smart lock yourself, but smart locks often require precise fitting, alignment, and in some cases, door modifications.

Our team at Locksmiths Perth 247:

• Checks your door for compatibility
• Installs the unit without damage
• Ensures the lock integrates with your phone or hosting platform
• Configures temporary guest codes or app access

We’ll make sure your system works smoothly—because the last thing you want is a call from a locked-out guest.

Step 3: Set Up Guest Access Features

Depending on the model, you can:

• Assign unique PIN codes for each guest
• Set expiry times for codes (e.g., check-in Friday 3 PM, check-out Monday 10 AM)
• Monitor lock activity via app notifications
• Grant access remotely for early check-ins or cleaners

Some locks integrate directly with Airbnb, Booking.com, or smart hubs like Alexa and Google Home.

For example:

• Igloohome Smart Deadbolts allow offline PIN code generation synced with your Airbnb bookings.
• Yale Access App lets you grant and revoke access instantly via Wi-Fi.

Step 4: Prepare a Backup Pla

Even smart locks can fail—batteries die, guests enter the wrong code repeatedly, or connectivity issues arise.

Prepare for:

• Low battery alerts (good locks will warn you in advance)
• Manual override key or mechanical backup
• Emergency locksmith support (Locksmiths Perth 247 offers 24/7 backup)

We also recommend keeping a spare set of access credentials with your property manager or a trusted contact nearby.

Step 5: Train Your Cleaners and Support Team

Don’t forget about your cleaners, maintenance crew, or co-hosts. They’ll need scheduled access too.

Create:

• Permanent codes for your team
• Recurring access windows (e.g., Mondays 10 AM – 12 PM)
• A clear access guide in your hosting instructions

Step 6: Communicate Clearly with Guests

Before check-in:

• Send instructions for the smart lock (code, app download link if needed)
• Include visuals or video if it’s a new model
• Let guests know who to contact (you or Locksmiths Perth 247) in case of issues

Bonus: Add instructions inside the home too—especially for locking the door on exit.

🛡️ Security and Privacy Considerations

Smart locks offer a lot of control, but you still need to respect guest privacy and stay compliant.

• Never monitor entry/exit without clear disclosure
• Avoid camera-enabled locks unless clearly communicated
• Keep your smart lock app updated to prevent software vulnerabilities

Also, make sure the lock uses encrypted communications if it connects to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

🔧 How Locksmiths Perth 247 Supports Smart Lock Systems

As one of Perth’s leading locksmith companies, we offer end-to-end smart lock solutions, including:

✅ Professional Installation
✅ System Setup and Configuration
✅ Lock Recommendations Based on Your Property
✅ 24/7 Emergency Support for You and Guests
✅ Maintenance, Battery Replacement & Troubleshooting
✅ Integration with Airbnb or Smart Home Platforms

Whether you manage one rental or ten, we can help make your access system safer, smarter, and more efficient.

💰 What Does It Cost to Set Up a Smart Lock?

Here’s a rough cost breakdown in Perth:

Total upfront: $370–$730
The time, stress, and key-related issues saved? Priceless.

Real Example: How One Perth Host Boosted Reviews with a Smart Lock

One of our clients, Emily, runs a 2-bedroom Airbnb in Fremantle. She struggled with coordinating key pickups, especially when guests arrived late or flew in from overseas.

After switching to a Yale Assure smart lock, she saw:

• Less time spent on guest communication
• No more lost keys
• 5-star reviews mentioning “easy check-in” and “secure stay”

Emily now uses smart locks on both of her properties and relies on Locksmiths Perth 247 for installation and emergency backup.

FAQs About Smart Locks for Short-Term Rentals

1. Can I install a smart lock on my rental if I don’t own the property?

In most cases, you’ll need permission from the property owner or strata. However, many smart locks can be installed without damaging the door, and can be removed later. We offer advice for renters wanting to upgrade security without making permanent changes.

2. What happens if the smart lock battery dies while a guest is staying?

Most smart locks send low battery alerts days (or weeks) in advance. We recommend checking battery levels between guests. Our team can also set up alerts and schedule preventative maintenance. Many locks also have emergency power options or backup keys.

3. Is it safe to use a smart lock for Airbnb? Can it be hacked?

Modern smart locks use encryption and multi-layered protection, making them extremely secure when installed correctly. To reduce risk, always:

• Use a reputable brand
• Update firmware regularly
• Avoid using generic PINs (like 1234)
• Enable 2FA on apps

4. Do smart locks work offline if there’s no Wi-Fi?

Yes, many do. Brands like Igloohome generate time-sensitive PIN codes that work without internet access. Other models like Samsung Digital Locks also support offline operation. We can help you choose the right model for your property’s Wi-Fi reliability.