10 things to know about Airbnb's new rules on chores, fines and access

Starting November, Airbnb guests checking out of short-term rentals may encounter fewer chores to complete, as the company aims to simplify house rules. According to an Airbnb spokesperson, the redesign of house rules was prompted by confusion, perceived burden, and difficulty in managing existing rules. The company announced the new policy, which goes into effect on November 20, stating that hosts can now only select from seven standard house rules or make "reasonable" requests that guests are encouraged to follow.

Standard rules cover aspects such as the maximum number of overnight guests, quiet hours, events, pets, smoking, commercial photography, and whether guests must lock up at checkout.

With cleaning and tidying tasks, hosts are restricted from asking guests to perform tasks that entail "significant effort or time, or would typically be performed by a cleaner." This includes washing dishes, stripping the bed, and removing trash. However, Airbnb has provided some exceptions for tasks related to guest or property safety, such as using an animal-proof trash bin in bear country or limiting showers during drought conditions.

These exceptions depend on the type of listing and other local factors that Airbnb will consider when deciding whether to grant an exception.

Airbnb emphasized that guests are still required to follow house rules and encouraged to comply with requests. Failure to comply might lead to contacting Airbnb for assistance. Notably, hosts cannot impose fines or penalties, as such actions fall under AirCover insurance coverage. This new policy aims to address guests' complaints about completing chores upon checkout and still being charged cleaning fees.

Since April 2025, hosts are no longer required to disclose cleaning fees separately, and they can incorporate them into the overall cost. Airbnb does not set an upper limit for cleaning fees.