Airbnb is set to introduce new checkout rules next month, easing the burden on guests staying in their accommodations. The company has revised its policies to limit the cleaning tasks hosts can assign to guests before departure. Effective for bookings made on or after November 20, here are the key points to consider regarding the updated regulations.
Under the new guidelines, hosts are urged to exercise reasonableness in various aspects. Hosts will no longer be permitted to require guests to perform tasks that are time-consuming, require significant effort, or are typically handled by professional cleaners. These tasks include changing bed linens, taking out trash to offsite locations, and washing and storing used dishes. Consequently, Airbnb’s cleaning fee should only encompass basic cleaning between guest stays, and hosts are prohibited from charging guests if the assigned cleaning tasks are incomplete upon checkout.
The decision to implement these changes stems from ongoing debates surrounding Airbnb cleaning responsibilities. Hosts have recounted instances where guests left untidy accommodations, while social media platforms like TikTok have showcased guests’ grievances regarding cleaning fees and additional chores post-checkout. Makarand Mody, an associate professor at Boston University’s School of Hospitality Administration, highlighted the discord between cleaning fees and guests being tasked with cleaning duties, contrasting the typical hotel experience.
In addition to the cleaning specifications, the new policy outlines that hosts cannot restrict guests from utilizing advertised amenities. They are also barred from imposing fines or penalties as Airbnb’s AirCover already safeguards hosts against damages caused by guests. Furthermore, house rules and requests must be transparently displayed in the listing at the time of booking, with no subsequent additions permitted. These rules encompass details on check-in/out times, smoking policies, pet regulations, noise restrictions, guest limits, and commercial photography or videography guidelines.
While hosts can introduce reasonable requests that can be updated as needed, Airbnb will evaluate the appropriateness of these requests based on factors like the property type and local circumstances. The flexible definition of “reasonable” aims to provide hosts with some leeway. Mody expressed curiosity about how hosts will adapt to these changes and how Airbnb will enforce the regulations, suggesting that the company intentionally kept the definition broad to give hosts some flexibility in their operations.
Overall, the modifications in Airbnb’s policies seek to strike a balance between host and guest satisfaction, ensuring a positive experience for both parties in the short-term rental ecosystem.