Airbnb rules limit cleaning chores guests can face under updated policy

Cleaning requests narrowed

Under the new policy, hosts generally cannot require guests to strip beds, wash and put away dishes, or take trash offsite. The restrictions apply to reservations booked on or after Nov. 20.

Hosts may still ask guests to do simpler tasks, such as putting used dishes in the sink. Airbnb said it has heard that house rules can be confusing, burdensome and difficult to manage.

Other policy changes

The policy prohibits hosts from imposing their own fines on guests. It also limits separate contracts to certain circumstances, including cases where the law or homeowners association rules require them. Airbnb said hosts can choose from seven standard house rules and add reasonable requests of their own.

Rules shown more clearly

The updated rules will appear more prominently on Airbnb listings, in guests’ Trips tabs and in reservation reminders. Hosts can continue to change their house rules at any time. If a request does not comply with the policy, Airbnb said it will flag the issue and give hosts an opportunity to appeal.