Italy’s Self-check-in ban: What travelers and Hosts need to know
Italy, one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, known for its fantastic food and wine culture, has recently shocked the short-term rental industry. Strict regulations that ban self-check-in methods are imposed on the hospitality sector. Concerns about security and preserving cultural heritages have been a top priority when deciding to implement these new rules.
These new regulations affect travelers and hosts, disrupting travel convenience and flexibility.
Since COVID, international visitors have become accustomed to seamless check-ins, and hosts have adopted self-check-ins to accommodate busy schedules. With the new regulations, new challenges arise. As a result, the hospitality industry has to adapt. At HolidayHero, we are here to guide you through these changes.
What does this ban cover?
The new regulations prohibit the use of any self-check-in methods, including key boxes, smart door locks etc.Any holiday accommodations listed on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com, require hosts to handle in-person check-ins or through authorized personnel.
The Italian government explains that this decision is driven by worries about security, proper guest identification, and the increasing pressure on local resources, particularly in tourist-heavy spots. Particularly in these areas, such as Rome, Florence, and Venice, authorities are doubling down on enforcement. Hosts who fail to comply risk hefty fines and/or restrictions on their ability to rent out properties.
Exceptions and Rules
However, in the press, it is stated that all properties have to comply with these new regulations. There are exceptions and nuances to be read:
In-Person Check-Ins with Verifications: guests can still access the properties if they are greeted by the host or any designated assigned person who verifies their identity upon arrival.
Allowance of Digital Tools: Despite physical key and identity exchanges, hosts are allowed to use digital tools to communicate and organize such exchanges.
Hotels and Licensed Accommodation Providers: As hotels and licensed accommodation providers often have staff on-site, they are exempt from the rules.
Special permits, in certain regions, exceptions may be granted if operators can demonstrate alternative systems that meet the proposed compliance standard.
The new regulations underline a broader trend towards a more regulated short-term rental market, balancing the needs for tourism with the protection of local communities.
Impact on Travelers
Every traveller expects a smooth vacation experience. The new self-check-in ban introduces a new layer of complexity. International guests have become acquainted with the flexibility, joy, and convenience of key boxes and check-ins at any hour of the day. The new in-person regulations, will lead to an increase in potential delays and / or inconveniences are lurking.
Late arrivals, delayed planes, weather disruptions, and so on, can now pose significant challenges. No longer is the key the most critical factor in entering an accommodation; it is shifting towards the availability of the host. Especially for larger groups or families, it can be challenging to arrange a check-in.
With the above, we assume that all travelers are knowledgeable about these rules. However, if not, and especially foreign travelers, many misunderstandings can arise, leaving them stranded without access to their accommodations. With this in mind, it is increasingly important that hosts and guests set clear expectations and have smooth communication, not only to coordinate a smooth check-in but also to have a pleasant stay.
Although the ban is perceived as negative, it also provides opportunities for guests to engage more with local hosts, fostering personal connections, insights, and knowledge about the cultural environment.
How host should and will adapt
With the new regulations, which came into force on November 18th, 2024, hosts are forced to rethink their approach to guest management, checking in, and all communications. All should be done in a fast manner without affecting the guests, thus maintaining a positive guest experience. All in all, we are moving from convenience-focused automation back to more hands-on, personalized hospitality.
What should hosts take into consideration and or adapt to:
Leveraging On-site Personnel
More and more hosts are hiring local property managers or concierge services to handle the in-person check-ins. With professionals scattered across the country, these professionals ensure that keys are handled in compliance with the new regulations. Moreover, guests are and should be getting a warm welcome, often enhancing the overall experience.
Facilitating guest coordination
These new regulations force hosts to adapt to digital tools that help organize and communicate check-in times effectively. Apps, such as HolidayHero, allow guests to share their ETAs or update hosts in real time, helping to reduce disruptions and streamlining the check-in process.
Flexible Check-in Solutions
Some hosts are now adapting their schedules and accepting early and very late arrivals to ensure that these compliances do not compromise guest satisfaction. Yup, that also includes making detailed arrival plans.
Partnering with local businesses
As creative as the hosts are, they quite often partner with local businesses, such as cafés or tourist centers, to serve as their key handover points. This is great, as local companies are increasingly empowered to collaborate with hosts and guests.
Adapting to these new regulations can come with some hurdles. However, more and more hosts see this as an opportunity to improve their services and differentiate themselves in this highly competitive market.
Is this the start of a set of new implications on italy?
This ban will likely significantly affect Italy’s short-term rental market, impacting travelers and hosts while the broader tourism ecosystem is being reshaped. Some expected but yet-to-be-validated trends in the Italian tourist market.
Shift to traditional accommodations.
With the added complexities of the check-ins, travelers might opt for more traditional accommodations such as hotels or serviced apartments, which could result in a decline in demand for independent short-term rentals.
Encouraging Responsible Tourism
This new legislation aligns with broader efforts to encourage sustainable and responsible tourism. With the new stricter rules, Italy hopes to reduce the strain on local resources, especially those in high-tourism areas (Venice, Florence, and Rome). It aims to bring a more balanced relationship between tourists and the needs of local communities.
Driving innovation
Every ban or new regulation may pose challenges, but it also opens the doors for innovation. Hosts are forced to rethink their approach and should offer new advanced scheduling tools and concierge partnerships.
Potential Expansion
The world is focused on a healthy balance between tourists and their local communications. Italy’s recent ban can set a precedent for stricter rules and regulations in other tourist-heavy destinations (see Barcelona’s new regulation).
In summary, Italy’s new shift from self-check-in to personal check-in has started a shift in the short-term rental landscape, creating challenges for both travelers and hosts. The new rules aim to address security concerns and reduce strains on local communities, preserving the local culture. It is recommended that both travelers and hosts spend effort in coordinating a smooth check-in, reducing friction along the line.
