Question 1

What changed in Airbnb's house rules policy on November 20, 2026?

Accepted Answer

For bookings made on or after November 20, 2026, Airbnb enforces 7 standard house rules: maximum overnight guests, quiet hours, events, pets, smoking and vaping, commercial photography and filming, and locking up at checkout. Everything else is a request that guests are encouraged to follow. Fines and surprise fees are out, and rules have to be on the listing before booking. Bookings made before that date keep the rules that were on the listing when the guest booked.

Question 2

Can I still charge a guest for damage or smoking?

Accepted Answer

Not as a fine in your house rules. Request your actual cost in the Resolution Center within 14 days of checkout, with photos and the invoice. The guest has 24 hours to pay, pay part, or decline, and if they decline you can ask Airbnb to step in. AirCover for Hosts covers guest damage and specialized cleaning like smoke odor.

Question 3

What checkout tasks can I still ask guests to do?

Accepted Answer

Light ones, written as requests: put used dishes in the sink, gather used towels, put trash in the indoor bins, and turn off the AC and lights. Don't ask guests to wash dishes, strip beds, start laundry or take trash off-site.

Question 4

Is there a version for direct bookings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Part 2 is a direct booking version for your own website, where Airbnb's policy doesn't apply and you set your own terms. Check your state and local rules before you publish it.

Question 5

Is the house rules template free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Enter your email and it's sent to your inbox right away at no cost. It's general guidance from an operator, not legal advice.

Airbnb house rules, rebuilt for the new policy.

Get it free

For hosts with rules written before November 20.