As of right now, new guidelines have been released for Airbnb, hotels, and other hospitality businesses.
The order was given in response to two horrifying killings of women at Airbnb in recent weeks.
Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) has issued a set of new directives to Airbnb operators countrywide.
The authority on its social media directed that “POWER TO RECORD AND TEMPORARILY WITHOLD IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS IN ACCOMMODATION, LODGING AND HOSPITALITY ESTABLISHMENTS.”
The issue of fake documents, and how to verify them has also weighed heavily on Kenyans’ minds.
It also said that going forward, guests who check into Airbnb will have to deposit their National ID cards with the apartment’s management or security for recording, and the document shall be withheld for the entire period of the guest’s stay.
Signed by the CEO/Director General Fazul Mohamed, the letter adds that
“In response to the alarming increase in reported criminal activity, including cases of murder, within residential apartments, particularly those affiliated with online accommodation, lodging, and hospitality platforms such as Airbnb, the Authority hereby issues the following DIRECTIVE aimed at addressing the emerging trends of insecurity to deter criminal activities within these premises and to further safeguard the safety of residents and guests.”
In addition, a record of identification details of all individuals accessing such premises shall be kept in a register, including their time of entry and exit for each person.
CCTV cameras are now also a mandatory requirement for all Airbnb facilities, with updated footage.
“Maintain an updated Access Control Policy; a copy of which should be strategically displayed at the point of entry and exit at the guarded premises; and maintain a security occurrence book to record daily significant incidents and notable events relating to the safety of residents and guests within the premises,” part of the statement by PSRA reads.
