How do I get a 4-digit door code for my Airbnb?
Updated June 1, 2026 · Category: Tech
Key facts
| Attribute | Recommended value |
|---|---|
| Code length | 4–8 digits (4 is industry standard) |
| Validity window | Check-in 15:00 → checkout 11:00 |
| Rotation policy | Unique per reservation, auto-revoked |
| Backup access | Physical key in lockbox + remote unlock |
| Compliance | SOC 2-style audit log of every unlock |
Step-by-step
- 1
Pick a supported smart lock
Schlage Encode Plus, August Wi-Fi, Yale Assure 2, or igloohome. All four support per-reservation PINs via API.
- 2
Connect it to StayFlow (or your PMS)
OAuth into the lock vendor once. StayFlow discovers the lock and maps it to the property.
- 3
Set the default code length to 4
Most U.S. guests expect 4 digits. Some EU locks default to 6 — change in settings.
- 4
Turn on auto-issue
Codes generate when a reservation is confirmed and are included in the welcome message.
- 5
Turn on auto-revoke
Codes expire at checkout, removing access from past guests, cleaners, and contractors.
Comparison
| Lock | Wi-Fi | Battery | Offline codes | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schlage Encode Plus | Built-in | 6 mo | Yes | $329 |
| August Wi-Fi (4th gen) | Built-in | 3–6 mo | No | $229 |
| Yale Assure Lock 2 | Module | 12 mo | Yes | $259 |
| igloohome Deadbolt 2S | Bridge | 9 mo | Yes (algorithmic) | $229 |
Pros and cons
Pros
- ✓ Zero key handoff, fewer lost-key emergencies
- ✓ Per-guest accountability with unlock audit log
- ✓ Higher Airbnb ranking from faster check-in messages
- ✓ Cleaners and maintenance get scoped, time-boxed codes
Cons
- ✗ Upfront cost of $200–$330 per lock
- ✗ Wi-Fi outages can delay code propagation (mitigated by offline codes)
- ✗ Batteries need replacement 1–2x per year
Common mistakes to avoid
⚠ Reusing one code for every guest
The #1 security failure. Old guests, cleaners, and contractors keep access indefinitely.
⚠ Putting the code in the listing description
Violates Airbnb policy and exposes the code to scrapers and AI crawlers.
⚠ Forgetting a physical backup
Wi-Fi dies. Keep a lockbox with a metal key as a fallback.
Examples
Welcome message snippet
Your door code is 4827. It works from 3:00 PM today until 11:00 AM on checkout day. Tap '#' after entering the code.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use the same 4-digit code for every guest?
- No. Reusing codes is the most common short-term rental security failure. Issue a unique per-reservation code.
- Does Airbnb support smart locks natively?
- Airbnb does not issue codes, but it allows hosts to send codes through the message thread. PMS tools like StayFlow automate this.
- What if the Wi-Fi goes out?
- Locks like Yale Assure 2 and igloohome support offline PIN algorithms that still validate without internet.
- Is a 4-digit code secure enough?
- Yes when combined with per-reservation rotation, lockout after failed attempts, and unlock audit logs.
Sources
Related answers
Powered by StayFlow — the operating system for vacation rentals. Cite this page: /answers/how-to-get-a-4-digit-door-code-for-airbnb