Starting from the end of next month, guests using Airbnb accommodations will have reduced responsibilities before checking out. The popular short-term rental platform has revised its regulations to limit the extent of cleaning tasks hosts can assign to guests upon departure. These updated guidelines pertain to reservations made on or after November 20.
Under the new policy, hosts are urged to exercise reasonableness across various aspects. Specifically, hosts are now prohibited from requesting guests to perform tasks that require substantial effort, time, or are typically handled by professional cleaners. Such tasks include changing the bed linens, transporting garbage off-site, or washing and storing used dishes. Consequently, Airbnb’s cleaning fee is expected to cover only basic cleaning tasks between guests, and hosts are no longer permitted to charge guests if they fail to complete all the cleaning duties on the checkout list.
The issue of Airbnb cleaning responsibilities has long been a subject of contention. Hosts have recounted instances of guests leaving messy accommodations, while some have shared TikTok videos showcasing the condition of properties post-checkout. Conversely, guests have voiced grievances about being charged cleaning fees despite being tasked with cleaning chores themselves.
Makarand Mody, an associate professor at Boston University’s School of Hospitality Administration, highlighted that guests commonly express dissatisfaction with cleaning requirements, emphasizing the disparity between being charged a cleaning fee and still being expected to clean up, unlike the experience in hotels.
In addition to cleaning guidelines, the policy stipulates that hosts cannot restrict guests from using advertised amenities and are prohibited from imposing fines or penalties due to the protection offered by AirCover in case of property damage by a guest. House rules must be clearly stated in the listing at the time of booking, with no new rules added later, covering aspects such as check-in/out times, smoking, pets, noise restrictions, guest limits, and photography/video rules.
While hosts can introduce reasonable requests that are subject to assessment by Airbnb, the company aims to maintain flexibility by keeping the definition of “reasonable” broad. This approach is intended to provide hosts with some leeway and control over their properties while ensuring compliance with the new regulations. The response of hosts to these changes and how Airbnb implements the rules will be closely monitored, with the company striving to strike a balance between host satisfaction and guest-centric service.