Under the ELAN law, you can rent out your primary residence for up to 3 months per year on platforms like Airbnb. But how do you protect your personal belongings when you hand your home over to strangers, even for a short stay of a few days?
Discover all the solutions available to keep your personal items safe!
Solutions to secure the closets in your home
1. Padlock hasps or a pair of eyelets
These metal accessories turn any closet into secure storage. They come either as metal hasps that fix on either side of the doors, or as eyelets that screw directly onto the doors, allowing you to fit a standard padlock afterwards.
Cost: €15-30
Installation: Easy – Requires drilling holes
Compatible cabinet types:
- Wooden hinged-door wardrobes
- Built-in closets
- Chests of drawers
- Storage units with doors
- Metal cabinets
- Lockers
2. Electronic locks
This RFID lock secures cabinets and drawers using a contactless card system. It installs discreetly inside furniture for an invisible finish.
Cost: €20-30
Key features:
- Multi-card system: option to program several cards
- Detection range: up to 38mm of wood thickness
- 13.56 MHz RFID technology (more secure)
Installation: Easy
3. Keyed cabinet door lock
This cylinder lock makes it easy to secure various types of storage thanks to a key-locking system.
Cost: €6.29
Compatible applications:
- Mailboxes
- Drawers
- Cabinets
- Lockers
- Closets
- Toolboxes
Installation: Easy
4. Combination cabinet lock
A sturdy rotary combination lock made of zinc alloy that works without batteries. With a modern, clean design, it offers a reliable solution with no keys to manage.
Cost: €15-25
Compatible cabinet types:
- Filing cabinets
- Mailboxes
- Drawers
- Lockers
- Shoe cabinets
- Wooden furniture
- Lockers
Installation: Easy
5. Temporary solution: use a cable tie
This little-known trick lets you temporarily lock your storage with no DIY at all. The bonus? These ties are super strong – double them up and your closets will be as secure as with a basic padlock.
Cost: €5-10
Compatible cabinet types:
- Cabinets with handles
- Closets with knobs
- Drawers with handles
- Furniture with grips
- Lockers with close-set handles
- Sliding-door wardrobes
Installation: Very easy
What is your property's potential?
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External and internal storage solutions to secure your belongings
Renting a secure storage unit
The ideal solution for long-term renting.
If you plan to rent out your home regularly or over long periods, renting a storage unit is the optimal professional solution. Companies like Homebox, Shurgard or BoxAway offer secure spaces to suit every need.
| Storage Unit | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | 1-3 m² unit: €25-80/month. Cost-effective relative to your rental income. |
| Pros | Maximum security (24/7 video surveillance, alarm, on-site guarding). Flexible access every day. Insurance included in the price. |
| Cons | Larger financial outlay. Minimum one-month commitment. Requires moving your belongings. |
Using a cellar or a lockable personal or family space
For the lucky ones.
For those who have access to one, this is obviously the ideal solution. Do not hesitate to ask your friends and family and your neighbours to use their space during your rental period: cellar, garage, attic/loft, a room at a relative's, a dedicated room, box room, larder, laundry room, finished basement, or a secure garden shed.
Optimisation tips:
- Install a dehumidifier if needed
- Use labelled airtight boxes
- Protect fragile items
| Personal Storage | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free to low. Initial investment in storage containers only. |
| Pros | Economical solution. No time constraints. Significant storage capacity. |
| Cons | Risk of damp. Security varies depending on the building. |
A question about your project?
Talk directly with your local Vesna agent. Available, responsive, no commitment.
4 golden rules
Define 3 categories
- Must absolutely be secured (documents, jewellery, electronics)
- To be stored discreetly (clothes, personal items)
- To be left in place (basic decor, standard equipment)
Keep a record of everything
- Photograph all your valuables from several angles
- Create a secure digital folder with these photos
- Update your inventory regularly
- Use an inventory management app
Checklist before each rental:
- Check the locks and security systems
- Take photos of the spaces before renting
- Store dangerous or sensitive products
Invest in security gradually
- Start with simple solutions (cable ties, padlocks)
- Test different solutions based on your real needs
- Move up to more sophisticated equipment if needed (electronic locks, safe)
FAQ
No, it is not legal! Cameras inside an Airbnb rental are prohibited because they violate guests' privacy. Only outdoor cameras are allowed (entrance, garden), and they must be clearly stated in the listing.
The key is to be natural and transparent! Most guests are understanding.
Best practices:
- Make sure guests have enough storage available to them
- In the listing: « You will have 3 large wardrobes and 4 kitchen cupboards – only 2 small closets are reserved for our personal belongings »
- On site: a friendly little note « Private closet – Thank you for your understanding »
- At check-in: « Make yourself at home! I've just kept this small space for a few personal items »
The steps to follow:
- Photos of the damage
- Immediate contact with Airbnb
- Use of the security deposit
- File a complaint if necessary
Important: keep all evidence and written exchanges!
Yes, there are specific insurance policies! Airbnb's Host Guarantee is a start but remains limited. Tips:
- Contact your home insurance provider for an extension
- Explore specialised insurance such as "Non-Occupying Owner Cover"
- Make a detailed inventory
A few locked closets are acceptable. But be careful: too many restrictions can negatively impact reviews. The key is to strike the right balance!
List of items not to overlook:
- Bottles of wine/spirits
- Branded cleaning products
- Electronic devices
- Medication
- Administrative documents
- Spare keys
- Valuable decorative items
Bonus tip: Do an inspection by putting yourself in the shoes of a curious guest!
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