American online accommodation marketplace Airbnb has updated its policy to ban hosts from requiring guests to perform chores such as washing dishes, doing laundry and taking out the trash before checking out.
In a statement by Airbnb, the company asked hosts and guests to take note of the changes, set to start on November 20.
“Starting today, we’re making house rules easier for you to set and for guests to read and follow. We’re also introducing a new house rules policy that takes effect November 20, 2026,” the company said.
It added, “Here are some examples of what generally is and isn’t allowed. Dishes: Guests shouldn’t be asked to wash and put away dishes, but you can ask them to put used dishes in the sink. Laundry: Guests shouldn’t be asked to remove sheets from the bed or start a load of laundry, but you can ask them to gather used towels.
“Trash: Guests shouldn’t be asked to take garbage off-site, but you can ask them to separate their trash and recycling into designated indoor bins. Utilities: Guests shouldn’t be asked to avoid using a listed amenity like air conditioning, but you can ask them to turn it off when they leave.”
As part of the new policy, Airbnb also announced that contracts between hosts and guests would only be allowed for reasons limited to legal requirements, homeowners association rules, rental agreements for monthly stays, Airbnb Luxe listings and coverage for optional amenities like golf carts.
The company, however, maintains that it does not require guests to sign contracts and does not enforce agreements on behalf of hosts.
“If a contract is allowed, you’ll need to upload it under Contracts in your listing settings. Before you do, be sure to read these requirements. Airbnb doesn’t help enforce, or require guests to sign, your contracts,” the company explained.
Meanwhile, Airbnb stated that hosts may still impose its seven house standard rules, including maximum overnight guests, quiet hours, events, smoking policy, commercial photography and lock up at checkout. It also added that guests can accommodate other reasonable requests.
“Guests are required to follow your house rules, and they’re encouraged to comply with your requests as part of our ground rules for guests,” the company stated.
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