General info about hosting places to stay
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 Hospitality Standards, here are some ways you can be a responsible host.*
Health and cleanliness
Airbnb's 5-step enhanced cleaning process
To help give guests peace of mind and help reduce the spread of COVID-19, Airbnb launched its mandatory COVID-19 safety practices, which include wearing a mask and social distancing when required by local laws or guidelines. As a Host, it's your responsibility to be aware of and comply with these local guidelines. Our local responsible hosting pages can be a good place to start learning about these health and safety guidelines. Hosts must also follow Airbnb’s 5-step cleaning process between each stay. Find out more in the Airbnb Resource Centre.
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 direct emergency contact number for yourself, as well as a backup one, for easy guest reference. Also, make it 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 that you have a functioning smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector, and that your property meets government safety guidelines for your area (e.g. International Building Code). Ensure that you provide a functioning fire extinguisher and complete required maintenance.
Exits
Ensure that you have a clearly marked fire escape route, and post a map in your home.
Minimise 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 national, regional, 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 it 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.
Childproofing
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.
Neighbours
How can I be mindful of my neighbours?
Building rules
Ensure that you relay your building's common area rules to your guest. You may want to even notify your neighbours that you will have guests, and remind guests not to bother your neighbours (e.g. don't knock on their door or buzz them to be let in).
Smoking
If you don't allow smoking, we suggest posting signs to remind guests. If you do allow smoking, ensure that you have ashtrays available in designated areas.
Parking
Ensure that you relay parking rules for your building and neighbourhood 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 that your guests are clear about your 'party policy'.
Pets
If you allow pets, ensure that guests are educated about things like local parks and local customs (e.g. cleaning up after your dog). Have a backup plan in case a guest's pet upsets the neighbours (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
Who should I notify that I'm hosting on Airbnb?
Contracts
Check your homeowners' association or housing co-op regulations to make sure there is no prohibition against sub-letting 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.
Housemates
If you have housemates, consider a housemate agreement in writing which outlines things like how often you plan to host, how you'll ensure that guests follow House Rules, and even whether you'll share revenue if that makes sense for you.
Neighbours
Consider whether you should notify your neighbours about your plans to host, along with your plan for how to make sure your guests are not disruptive.
Subsidised housing
If you live in public or subsidised 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 that you look up any local taxes or business licence 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 that 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/stabilisation
If you live in rent-controlled or rent-stabilised housing, there may be special rules that apply to you. Contact your local rent control board to ask questions about this topic.
Insurance
What insurance should I get to cover my home?
Host Guarantee
Airbnb offers you our Host Guarantee, but note that this does not take the place of homeowner's or renter's insurance.
Basic coverage
Review your renter's or homeowner's policy with your insurance company to make sure you have adequate coverage.
Liability
Ensure that you have adequate liability coverage as well as property protection.
For more information on how Airbnb works, visit our FAQs.
* 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.