Under the ELAN law, you can rent out your primary residence for up to 4 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 secure your personal belongings!
Solutions for securing your cupboards at home
1. Padlock staples or eyelet pairs
These metal accessories can turn any cupboard into secure storage. They are either metal staples that attach to both sides of the doors, or eyelets that screw directly onto the doors, allowing you to fit a standard padlock.
Cost: 15-30 €
Installation: Easy - requires drilling holes
Compatible cabinet types:
- Wooden hinged-door wardrobes
- Built-in cupboards
- Chest of drawers
- Storage units with doors
- Metal cabinets
- Lockers
2. Electronic locks
This RFID lock secures wardrobes and drawers using a contactless card system. It installs discreetly inside furniture for an invisible finish.
Cost: 20-30 €
Key features:
- Multi-card system: ability to programme several cards
- Detection range: up to 38mm wood thickness
- RFID 13.56 MHz technology (more secure)
Installation: Easy
3. Key-operated door lock for wardrobes
This cylinder lock easily secures various types of storage using a key locking mechanism.
Cost: 6.29 €
Compatible applications:
- Letter boxes
- Drawers
- Wardrobes
- Lockers
- Cupboards
- Toolboxes
Installation: Easy
4. Combination cabinet lock
A robust rotary combination lock made of zinc alloy, working without batteries. Modern and clean design, it provides a reliable solution with no key to manage.
Cost: 15-25 €
Compatible cabinet types:
- Filing cabinets
- Letter boxes
- Drawers
- Lockers
- Shoe cabinets
- Wooden furniture
- Changing room 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 incredibly strong - double them up and your cupboards will be as secure as with a basic padlock.
Cost: 5-10 €
Compatible cabinet types:
- Wardrobes with handles
- Cupboards with knobs
- Drawers with handles
- Furniture with loops
- 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
Rent a secure storage unit
The ideal solution for long-term rentals.
If you plan to rent your property regularly or for long periods, renting a storage unit is the optimal professional solution. Companies such as Homebox, Shurgard or BoxAway offer secure spaces to suit all needs.
| Storage Unit | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | 1-3 m² unit: 25-80 €/month. Cost-effective compared to rental income. |
| Advantages | Maximum security (24/7 CCTV, alarm, security guard). Flexible access every day. Insurance included in the price. |
| Disadvantages | Greater financial investment. Minimum commitment of 1 month. Requires moving your belongings. |
Use a personal or family cellar or lockable space
For the lucky ones.
For those who have one available, this is obviously the ideal solution. Don't hesitate to ask friends and family and neighbours to use their space during your rental period: cellar, garage, attic/loft, family storage, dedicated room, storage room, pantry, utility room, converted basement, secure garden shed.
Optimisation tips:
- Install a dehumidifier if necessary
- Use labelled airtight boxes
- Protect fragile items
| Personal Storage | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free to low cost. Initial investment in storage only. |
| Advantages | Economical solution. No time constraints. Large storage capacity. |
| Disadvantages | 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 be secured (documents, jewellery, electronics)
- Store discreetly (clothing, personal items)
- Leave in place (basic decor, standard equipment)
Keep a record of everything
- Photograph all your valuables from multiple angles
- Create a secure digital folder with these photos
- Update your inventory regularly
- Use an inventory management app
Checklist before each rental:
- Check locks and security systems
- Take photos of the spaces before the rental
- Store hazardous or sensitive items
Invest gradually in security
- Start with simple solutions (cable ties, padlocks)
- Test different solutions according to your actual needs
- Move to more sophisticated equipment if necessary (electronic locks, safe)
FAQ
No, it is not legal! Cameras inside an Airbnb property are prohibited as they violate guests' privacy. Only outdoor cameras are permitted (entrance, garden), and must be clearly mentioned 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 cupboards are reserved for our personal belongings"
- On site: a friendly note "Private cupboard - thank you for your understanding"
- At check-in: "Make yourself at home! I've just kept this small space for a few personal items"
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 starting point but remains limited. Tips:
- Contact your home insurance provider about an extension
- Explore specialist insurance such as "Non-Occupying Landlord Guarantee"
- Create a detailed inventory
A few locked cupboards are acceptable. But beware: too many restrictions can negatively impact reviews. The key is finding the right balance!
Items not to overlook:
- Wine/spirit bottles
- Branded cleaning products
- Electronic devices
- Medication
- Administrative documents
- Spare keys
- Decorative items of value
Bonus tip: Do an inspection by putting yourself in the shoes of a curious guest!
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