Forced to wash dishes, put the sheets in the washing machine or even empty the trash after using a short-term rental home on Airbnb? The American company is strengthening the rules of good communication between owners and hosts, who will no longer play the role of household employees - for free. Airbnb has indeed announced that it will end starting November 20th practices that fueled criticism from travelers using the short-term rental platform for several years. New provisions will therefore come into effect for any reservation made from that date, anywhere in the world.
The most visible measure thus concerns the household chores requested before departure. Owners will no longer be able to require travelers to remove bed sheets from beds, wash and sort dishes, start a washing machine, or transport trash outside the residence. These operations are considered to fall under the work normally performed by cleaning teams.
However, certain common-sense requests will always be allowed. For example, depositing used tableware in the sink, collecting used towels, or sorting their waste in the designated bins. Exceptions may be granted based on local specificities, particularly in regions where waste management or water resources require specific precautions.
This is not the only new measure. Airbnb standardizes the living rules applicable to each accommodation. Owners will be able to select seven categories of predefined rules. These include the maximum number of people allowed, the hours during which noise restrictions apply, events such as parties, pets, tobacco and e-cigarettes, photos and the closing time of the accommodation upon departure. All rules must be communicated BEFORE arrival at the accommodation and not DURING the stay…
Very limited contracts outside the Airbnb framework
The platform also limits the ability for owners to require the signing of a contract separate from the Airbnb reservation. This practice will only be allowed in certain situations: legal obligation, resolution of a condominium or homeowners association, monthly rental of at least 28 nights, or stay in an Airbnb Luxe property. The authorized contracts must be presented in a specific section of the listing.
The collection of personal data is also concerned. Owners will generally no longer be able to ask travelers for their contact information, identity documents, or additional personal information, except for exceptions provided for by local regulations (police or municipality) or documented rules of a condominium.
All non-compliant requests can be reported directly in the ad management interface. Airbnb can also intervene in case of repeated non-compliance with its policies, with warnings, the suspension of ads, or the deactivation of accounts. While owners can resort to legal action…
