Vonovia is transitioning its rental properties to smart smoke detectors, raising tenant concerns about costs and privacy. The Multisensor Plus device not only detects smoke but also collects data stored on Microsoft servers, leading to worries about surveillance and potential misuse of information. While data is claimed to be processed anonymously within Europe, tenants have limited control over the technology, as the devices remain the property of the landlord. It’s essential for tenants to understand their rights in this evolving smart home landscape.
Vonovia’s Shift to Smart Smoke Detectors
A recent report highlights that the real estate giant Vonovia is transitioning its rental properties to utilize advanced smart smoke detectors extensively. This move initially sparked concerns among tenants regarding the potential costs involved. However, these devices offer functionalities beyond mere smoke detection; they also transmit data to Vonovia, which is ultimately stored on Microsoft servers.
Understanding the Implications of Data Collection
Some may argue that many individuals in Germany routinely use various US services, and Microsoft’s cloud solutions are widely adopted in both homes and offices. The real concern, however, arises from the implications of the data collected by these smoke detectors. With Vonovia managing nearly half a million apartments in Germany, this situation raises significant privacy concerns.
Vonovia markets its smart smoke detector, Multisensor Plus, as ‘The Plus for Your Home: Safety & Comfort’, intending to charge tenants 6 euros monthly for the service. There are apprehensions that the data gathered could lead to unwanted surveillance of tenants. For instance, landlords could potentially monitor whether apartments are adequately ventilated, which could be used against tenants in cases of damage like mold growth.
Moreover, this data could also attract the attention of criminals. By analyzing heating and humidity levels, individuals could potentially leverage artificial intelligence to ascertain how many people reside in an apartment or if the occupants are away on vacation.
Data Privacy and Tenant Rights
When it comes to data gathering and transmission, it is vital to prioritize data protection and security. There exists a diverse spectrum of attitudes towards smart home technology, from enthusiasts eager to collect data to those who prefer to avoid it entirely. While Vonovia claims that data from the smoke detectors is collected anonymously and processed within the European Economic Area, this situation raises another concern: tenants often lack clarity regarding the underlying technology and the entities responsible for it.
Interestingly, the smoke detectors are owned by the property owner, leaving tenants without much leverage. Unlike other smart devices, where consumers can weigh data privacy options, tenants must abide by the decisions made by their landlords regarding smoke detectors. Vonovia has stated that the devices are delivered with disabled radio settings, allowing tenants to opt-in for data transmission if they choose. However, it’s important to note that tenants can deactivate climate data transmission at any time using a switch on the device.
Furthermore, tenants cannot simply replace or remove smoke detectors, as these are integral to the rental property. Any changes can only occur if both parties—the tenant and the landlord—agree in writing to allow the tenant to manage the smoke detector installation.
As the market for smart home devices continues to evolve, it’s crucial for tenants to remain informed about their rights and the implications of living in properties equipped with smart technology.