A Disturbing Wakeup Call: Unlicensed Airbnb Shootings, Legal Responsibilities, and Preventive Measures

Shock in Ormond Beach

An unexpected episode of violence lasted for six distressing hours at the Kingston Shores Condominiums in Ormond-by-the-Sea, Florida, as 56-year-old Joseph DiFusco from Connecticut, instigated a standoff with Volusia Sheriff’s Office deputies. Authorities revealed DiFusco, armed with a comprehensive arsenal, was the tenant of an Airbnb property at the site, raising questions on the safety value in short-term rentals and recurring legal issues around these premises.

Increasing Uncertainty Surrounding Short-term Rentals

For residents living around properties offered for short-term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo, the sudden outbreak of violence exemplifies the worst-case scenario when it comes to temporary neighbors. The law mandates short-term rentals in Florida to be licensed with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation but, in a daunting revelation, the Airbnb property in question did not possess any such legal license.

Legalities around Gun Possession in Airbnb, Vrbo Rentals

Critical discussions around the legality and safety precautions of bringing firearms on short-term rental property have surged in the aftermath of the incident. Both Airbnb and Vrbo have explicit policies that allow renters to bring along firearms, given they are secured, legally owned, and disclosed to the host before arrival. The companies, however, prohibit the presence of heavy ammunitions, assault weapons, explosive devices, and incendiary devices.

Do Hosts have to Disclose the Presence of Guns?

Adding an extra layer of obligation, Airbnb, and Vrbo policy mandates hosts to disclose the presence of any firearm within the property, in a properly stored and secured state. If any undisclosed weapon is discovered by guests, they should convey the same to the host who is subsequently responsible for securing or removing the item. The guest can take recourse to the company in case of non-compliance.

Background Checks: A Necessary Prudence

Airbnb’s operation policies suggest that the company ‘may’ perform a background check on US-based user who creates a listing, or is associated with a booking, leveraging the user’s personal data against public records or publicly available databases. The company policy maintains a grey area with less severe crimes like disorderly conduct or marijuana possession not viewed as “removable offenses”, while complex offenses can lead to severe penalties or even permanent removal.

Vrbo’s Identity Verification

Vrbo appears to take a less intrusive approach with hosts receiving booking requests that may feature a ‘Verified Identity’ badge indicating Vrbo’s verification of the guest’s personal data.

A Call for More Comprehensive Policies

This harrowing incident highlights the need for stronger regulation in online, short-term property rentals, and a more stringent process for conducting background checks on renters and hosts alike. It also emphasizes the importance of continuous dialogue in the realm of gun control and safety in private properties and short-term rentals for safer communities.

Originally Post From https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/news/local/volusia/2024/11/30/airbnb-vrbo-gun-rules-for-hosts-and-guests/76659201007/

Navigating Airbnb and Vrbo Gun Rules: What Guests Need to Know about Bringing Weapons