Latest Airbnb debacle,100 people party, 5 shot dead! - what next?

[Joe Kim]

If you have not heard about a recent 5 person shooting death at a 100 person party in a quiet (quite affluent) surburb of SF bay area (Orinda), you can google it or read the synposis here 

https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/02/us/orinda-airbnb-party-house-trnd/index.html

When I first heard about this, I knew that it may have a big impact on how Airbnb runs their business.   

First things first, the host did not intend to let someone have a 100 person party at the home but the guest had replied saying that there were only have 12 person reunion. 12 person reunion is not the same as a 100 person party. So obviously the host was unaware that a 100 person party was the REAL plan of the guests.

Airbnb is now enacting a "no party house" policy.    

I've always had a "No party" and "No events"  policy at my airbnb homes.

I'm wondering what others are doing to face this challenge of screening the guests?

1)  Security camera-   External security cameras to track who is coming into home? Cameras are a bit controversial - there have been reports of HOSTS having indoor cameras (which is obviously a violation of privacy for the guest) and will result in IMMEDIATELY shutdown of Airbnb accounts. Unfortunately, Airbnb does not seem to do it's due diligence and even just an accusation by a single guest can lead to account shutdowns

I have had no issues in all of my homes with no security cameras. But now, you have to wonder if a security camera to show proof to airbnb and to track in real time if guests are #1 violating your house rules  #2 violating local laws.

2)  Screening -   I always demand an answer to two simple questions (sometimes I have to ask multiple times to get answer) 

                A)  What brings you to my home?     B) How many total adults and total children are staying at the home?

I also ask for contact information of one or two adults who are staying at the home especially if if the person booking is NOT the person who is staying at the home. This is one of the easiest ways to get in trouble. (not because of a party) but mostly because of breakdown in communication. The people staying at the home do not get any of the messages I send to the person who is actually booking the home.

The morning after the 5 person shooting. I had a request that asked to stay at my home for a "birthday party". But then went to say in detail that this was a "black tie affair" and 100 people will be attendance!     

Now, what to do if you own a large home that attracts people who are gathering for a special occasion? Gathering of family and friends does not constitute a "party" (loud, too many people, ETOH in large quantities).  

I have a low threshold to say "NO" or decline many requests that don't feel right or if the guest is not communicating clearly.

3)  Making sure your house rules are CLEARLY stated on your platform listings and in your home guide at the home itself. 

4)  I also have a 2 day minimum and longer minimums depending on the season. Lots of 1 night bookings can be trouble.   And I do not allow "events" at my homes - even though they are large (5 or 6 bedroom homes). Guests say there would "only" be 15-20 guests. Which really means 20-30 guests. Anytime there is a RANGE ...always go with the highest number and add a few more. I always ask for EXACT guest count.

Any other suggestions you have for making sure our homes do not become a "party house" as airbnb calls it?