1. Policy Overview
This Surveillance & Monitoring Policy establishes requirements and guidelines for surveillance devices and monitoring equipment at properties listed on the HelotStays platform. This policy protects guest privacy while allowing property owners to protect their properties with appropriate security measures.
2. Mandatory Disclosure Requirements
Property owners must disclose ALL surveillance and monitoring devices in their listing. Required disclosure includes:
- Type of device (camera, audio recorder, motion sensor, noise monitor, etc.).
- Location of each device.
- Whether the device records or only monitors in real-time.
- What the device captures (video, audio, noise levels, motion, etc.).
Failure to disclose surveillance devices is a violation of this policy and may result in immediate listing removal and potential legal consequences.
3. Prohibited Surveillance
The following surveillance is strictly prohibited:
- Interior Cameras: Video surveillance of any kind inside the property where guests have a reasonable expectation of privacy, including living areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, and any enclosed spaces.
- Audio Recording: Audio recording devices that capture guest conversations inside the property.
- Hidden Devices: Any undisclosed or concealed surveillance devices anywhere on the property.
- Two-Way Cameras: Cameras with two-way audio or listening capabilities inside the property.
4. Permitted Surveillance
The following surveillance may be permitted if properly disclosed:
Exterior Cameras
Video surveillance of exterior areas such as:
- Driveways and parking areas
- Front door and entry points
- Backyard and pool areas
- Common outdoor spaces
Noise Monitoring Devices
Devices that measure noise levels (decibels) without recording audio content. These devices help owners monitor for parties or disturbances without capturing private conversations.
Motion Sensors
Motion detection devices that do not capture video or audio, used for security or automation purposes.
Smart Home Devices
Smart speakers, thermostats, or other IoT devices that may have listening capabilities must be disclosed. Owners should disable voice-activated listening features during guest stays or clearly disclose their presence and functionality.
5. Guest Rights
Guests have the right to:
- Know about all surveillance devices before booking.
- Privacy in interior spaces and areas with reasonable expectation of privacy.
- Request deactivation of certain devices (where feasible and disclosed).
- Report suspected undisclosed surveillance to HelotStays.
- Cancel a booking without penalty if undisclosed surveillance is discovered.
6. Reporting Violations
If you discover undisclosed surveillance devices:
- Document the device (photos if possible).
- Contact HelotStays immediately through the Platform.
- Do not tamper with or remove the device.
- Consider contacting local law enforcement if you believe your privacy has been violated.
HelotStays takes surveillance policy violations seriously and will investigate all reports promptly.
7. Owner Responsibilities
Property owners with surveillance devices must:
- Disclose all devices in the listing with specific locations.
- Ensure all surveillance complies with local laws and regulations.
- Protect any recorded data in accordance with privacy laws.
- Provide guests with information about how to contact them regarding surveillance concerns.
- Regularly review and update surveillance disclosures.
8. Data Retention and Security
For properties with surveillance devices that record:
- Recorded footage should be retained only as long as necessary for legitimate security purposes.
- Owners must secure recorded data against unauthorized access.
- Recorded data should not be shared except as required by law or with proper consent.
- Owners must comply with applicable data protection laws regarding recorded footage.
9. Consequences of Violations
Violations of this policy may result in:
- Immediate listing suspension or removal.
- Guest refunds and compensation at owner's expense.
- Permanent removal from the Platform.
- Reporting to law enforcement where appropriate.
10. Legal Compliance
Property owners are responsible for ensuring their surveillance practices comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Laws regarding surveillance, recording, and privacy vary by jurisdiction. HelotStays does not provide legal advice regarding surveillance compliance.
11. Contact Information
For questions about this Surveillance & Monitoring Policy or to report a suspected violation, please contact us through the contact form on our website.