Responsible hosting in the United States
We encourage hosts to think carefully about their responsibilities. Hosting offers rich experiences, but it comes with a certain level of commitment. In addition to the basic requirements that we expect of all hosts, here are some ways you can be a responsible host.*
Health and cleanliness
Global information about Airbnb’s 5-step enhanced cleaning process can be found in general info about hosting places to stay.
Key recommendations on cleaning
- Recommendations on waiting to enter the space before cleaning and disinfection from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- An explanation on how to read chemical labels from the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
General resources
- For cleaning and disinfection guidelines, interim recommendations from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- For US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidance on COVID-19, the key EPA resources on the coronavirus disease
Safety
What can I do to make my space safe for guests?
Emergency procedures
Contact info
Indicate local emergency numbers and the nearest hospital. Provide a clear emergency contact number for yourself, as well as backup, for easy guest reference. Also make clear how you should be contacted if the guest has questions or issues arise.
Supplies
Make a first aid kit easily available.
Fire prevention
Ensure you have a functioning smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector, and that your property meets government safety guidelines for your area (ex: International Building Code). Ensure you provide a functioning fire extinguisher and complete required maintenance.
Exits
Ensure you have a clearly marked fire escape route, and post a map in your home.
Minimize hazards
Privacy
Always be mindful of your guests' privacy. Fully disclose whether there are security cameras or other surveillance equipment at or around your listing. Make sure you are aware of and comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Occupancy
Establish safe occupancy limits - your local government may have guidelines.
Access
Go through your home to identify any areas where guests might trip or fall and either remove the hazard or mark clearly. Fix any exposed wires. Ensure stairs are safe and have railings. Remove or lock up any objects that may be dangerous to your guests.
Child-proofing
Ensure your home is safe for children, or else notify guests of potential hazards.
Climate
Ensure your home is properly ventilated and that temperature control is clearly marked and functional. Ensure guests are clear about how to safely use the heater.
Neighbors
How can I be mindful of my neighbors?
Building rules
Ensure you relay your building's common area rules to your guest. You may want to even notify your neighbors that you will have guests, and remind guests not to bother your neighbors (ex: don't knock on their door or buzz them to let you in).
Smoking
If you don't allow smoking, we suggest posting signs to remind guests. If you do allow smoking, ensure you have ashtrays available in designated areas.
Parking
Ensure you relay parking rules for your building and neighborhood to your guest.
Noise
Remind guests about keeping noise down. You may want to consider whether you allow babies, pets, or parties. Develop a policy about guests inviting other people over, and ensure your guests are clear about your 'party policy.'
Pets
If you allow pets, ensure guests are educated about things like local parks and local customs (ex: cleaning up after your dog). Have a backup plan in case a guest's pet upsets the neighbors (such as the number of a nearby pet hotel).
House Rules
To avoid surprises, you may want to include the information covered above in your House Rules in your Airbnb listing profile.
Permissions
Whom should I notify that I'm hosting on Airbnb?
Contracts
Check your HOA or Co-Op Board regulations to make sure there is no prohibition against subletting--or any other restriction against hosting. Read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable. You may consider adding a rider to your contract that addresses the concerns of these parties and outlines the responsibilities and liabilities of all parties.
Roommates
If you have roommates, consider a roommate agreement in writing which outlines things like how often you plan to host, how you'll ensure guests follow House Rules, and even whether you'll share revenue if that makes sense for you.
Neighbors
Consider whether you should notify your neighbors about your plans to host, along with your plan for how to make sure your guests are not disruptive.
Subsidized housing
If you live in public or subsidized housing there may be special rules that apply to you. The manager of the property may be able to answer questions about this.
General regulations
What local regulations apply to me?
Taxes
Ensure you look up any local taxes or business license requirements that may apply. This may include things like hotel/transient occupancy tax, sales, and other turnover taxes such as Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST), or income tax.
Permits or registrations
Ensure you look up any permitting, zoning, safety, and health regulations that may apply. The governing authorities that regulate the use and development of property in your area may have useful information on such regulations.
Rent control/rent stabilization
If you live in rent controlled or stabilized housing, there may be special rules that apply to you. Contact your local Rent board to ask questions about this topic.
Local regulations
Select a location below to read city, county, or region-specific info. If your area isn't listed, you can read general info about local regulations.
Important things to check
Taxes
Taxes can be complicated, and you should take time to understand the rules as they apply to you and your particular situation.
Ernst and Young has prepared an overview of tax considerations for Airbnb hosts relating to the US taxation of rental income: Ernst and Young’s United States "General guidance on the taxation of rental income" (English). This information provides an overview of how to complete your tax return as well as some of your tax responsibilities regarding the revenue you derived from your hosting activity on Airbnb and other hosting platforms. The information provided by Ernst and Young relates exclusively to US income tax and does not include any guidance relating to occupancy taxes, hotel taxes, value added taxes, or other taxes.
Disclaimer: Airbnb's presentation of Ernst and Young is not an endorsement. Tax advice is complicated and you should do your own diligence when receiving advice. Airbnb is not responsible for any tax or other advice provided by any outside entity.
Insurance
What insurance should I get to cover my home?
Host Guarantee
Airbnb offers you our Host Guarantee, but note this does not take the place of homeowners or renters insurance.
Basic coverage
Review your renters or homeowners policy with your insurance carrier to make sure you have adequate coverage.
Liability
Ensure you have adequate liability coverage as well as property protection.
For more information on how Airbnb works, visit our Help Center.
* Please note that Airbnb has no control over the conduct of Hosts and disclaims all liability. Failure of Hosts to satisfy their responsibilities may result in suspension of activity or removal from the Airbnb website.
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