The key facts
- Airbnb's new rules apply to bookings starting November 20
- Guests cannot be asked to strip beds, take out trash, or wash dishes; fines are banned — damage is covered by the platform's insurance
- The changes come amid protests over housing shortages in Europe and European Commission proposals for restrictions
What Is Changing in the Rules
This week, Airbnb introduced new rules for hosts: they may make only 'reasonable' requests of guests. According to Deutsche Welle, the platform said hosts are generally prohibited from 'asking guests to perform tasks that require significant physical effort or time or that are typically done by a housekeeper, including stripping bed linens, taking trash out beyond the property, or washing and putting away dishes.'
The Platform's Motives
Cleaning fees have long been a contentious issue for guests, especially when they are additionally asked to clean. Airbnb previously acknowledged that such fees can cause misunderstandings between guests and hosts. In a message to hosts, the platform wrote: 'Guests expect checkout to be relatively simple, and most want to avoid unexpected chores. Requests to do what a housekeeper should do can negatively affect their stay and your reviews.'
What Can Still Be Requested
Guests may still be asked to leave dirty dishes in the sink or dishwasher, gather used towels, sort trash and recyclables. Hosts may also require trash to be placed in animal-proof containers in areas where bears are active, or ask guests to 'limit shower time due to local water restrictions caused by drought.'
Ban on Fines and Restrictions on Amenities
Hosts will no longer be able to bar guests from using amenities listed in the property description, such as air conditioners, or to fine guests. Instead, compensation for damage must be obtained through the insurance provided by the platform.
Context: Pressure on the Short-Term Rental Sector
The new rules come amid growing protests over housing shortages in many European cities, where participants argue that short-term rentals, including Airbnb, are pushing them out of their own cities. In September, the European Commission proposed more restrictions for Airbnb and other short-term rental companies in tourist centers. The new policy applies to bookings starting November 20.
