Airbnb Cracks Down on Guest Chores Amid Host-Guest Disputes

Airbnb is implementing new house rules designed to prohibit hosts from asking guests to perform chores such as washing dishes or taking out the trash. These changes, set to take effect in November, aim to streamline the guest experience and address long-standing friction points between hosts and those renting their properties.

The updated guidelines clarify expectations for checkout procedures, stating that guests should not be required to wash and put away dishes, though they may be asked to place used items in the sink. Similarly, guests are no longer to be asked to strip beds or start laundry loads, but gathering used towels may still be requested. For trash, guests should not be obligated to remove rubbish from the property, but are expected to sort recyclables into designated indoor bins.

These policy shifts come after numerous guest complaints about extensive checkout lists, often accompanied by significant cleaning fees. Jessica Newhook recounted a family reunion stay in Florida where, despite a $250 cleaning fee, guests were instructed to leave the property “move-in ready for the cleaners.” This included washing and folding towels, cleaning the kitchen, and sweeping and mopping floors. Newhook expressed frustration, noting the rules were so extensive that the stay was not relaxing, and the combined cost and effort were making hotels a more appealing option.

Krissi Foskett, who operates a cleaning company and uses Airbnb for stays, shared a similar experience. After paying a £35 cleaning fee for a recent stay, she was still asked to strip beds, empty bins, and transport rubbish to a distant recycling area. Foskett questioned the value of the cleaning fee if such tasks were still demanded, distinguishing between being a considerate guest, like rinsing dishes, and being expected to prepare the property for subsequent visitors. She also noted the extreme conditions some cleaning teams encounter, including damaged furniture and significant messes.

Foskett believes that while hosts may face challenges with turnaround times and cleaning costs, these expenses should be absorbed as a cost of doing business, especially when operating Airbnb rentals as a commercial enterprise. "If you're running an Airbnb as a business, professional cleaning is a cost of doing business," she stated.

The new rules have also drawn concern from hosts. Anthony Marsh, who co-owns a cabin retreat in North Yorkshire, has reduced the number of properties he lists on Airbnb from five to two due to the upcoming changes. Marsh fears the new policies will embolden guests to leave properties in a state of disarray, with limited recourse for hosts.

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