Airbnb Cracks Down on Overly Burdensome Guest Rules

Airbnb has announced new policies to limit the demands hosts can place on guests, a move welcomed by travelers who have experienced increasingly restrictive house rules. The updated guidelines, effective for bookings made from November 20, stipulate that hosts cannot require guests to undertake tasks that demand significant effort or time, or that would typically be handled by a cleaning service.

These new rules aim to curb practices such as requiring guests to wash dishes, strip beds, or take out the trash, especially when guests have already paid a cleaning fee. Previously, hosts could leverage guest ratings as a form of punishment for non-compliance, potentially impacting a guest's ability to book future properties. The company acknowledged that many house rules had become "confusing, onerous and hard to manage."

One travel writer recounted an experience on the Isle of Skye where the host's list of rules was extensive, covering detailed recycling procedures, restrictions on flushing anything other than toilet paper due to septic tank issues, and requirements to wash, dry, and put away all dishes, as well as strip beds before departure.

The writer also faced challenges with the property's amenities, including difficulty operating the central heating and a tricky electric hob that only worked when a pan was placed on it. Connecting to streaming services on the television also proved time-consuming.

Despite these inconveniences, the accommodation was described as charming and good value. Airbnb's decision to update its policies comes after years of complaints from users who felt subjected to excessive demands from hosts, particularly when cleaning fees were already applied.