Airbnb New Global Rules Limit Checkout Chores and Host Requirements
Airbnb hosts will no longer be able to ask guests to strip beds or wash dishes under the accommodation platform’s new global rules taking effect on November 20. The updated guidelines restrict chores that require significant time or effort, following widespread complaints from guests who faced extensive cleaning duties despite paying cleaning fees.
Under the new policy announced by Airbnb, hosts generally cannot require guests to strip beds of linen, take rubbish off-site, start laundry, or wash and put away dishes. Permissible checkout tasks are limited to gathering used towels, placing used dishes in the sink, separating trash and recycling into designated indoor bins, and switching off appliances such as air conditioning.
New Restrictions on House Rules and Disclosures
Hosts can now select from seven standard house rules—covering check-in and check-out times, guest limits, quiet hours, pets, smoking, commercial photography, and checkout lock-up requirements—which must be clearly displayed at the time of booking. Hosts will not be allowed to introduce additional rules later through messages, signs, or separate checkout instructions.
Exceptions to the rules may apply based on local circumstances, such as limiting shower times during a drought or disposing of rubbish in animal-proof containers in areas where bears roam. The platform is also restricting host-imposed fines, noting that its AirCover programme protects against damage, while listings containing inconsistent requests may be flagged for modification.
Experts Say Guests Will Welcome Cleaning Fee Changes
Consumer NZ spokesperson Jessica Walker said guests would welcome the changes, noting that frustration arises when people pay a cleaning fee and still face a list of chores. Massey University marketing expert Bodo Lang suggested the policy shifts Airbnb further toward commercial accommodation behavior, though he noted that outliers among both guests and hosts may still test the system’s thresholds.