Airbnb is starting new rules for short-term rentals on 20 November. These rules are for all bookings around the world. The new rules say that hosts cannot ask guests to do certain chores. For example, guests do not have to wash dishes or put away dishes. They also do not have to remove bed linens or take away rubbish. Hosts can still have seven standard house rules, but they cannot ask for these cleaning tasks anymore.
These changes are causing problems for many property owners. In the past, hosts asked guests to help with small jobs to save money. Now, the host or a professional cleaner must do all the work. This means the cost of running a rental will go up. Many hosts are worried they will have to charge guests more money. This might make the booking prices higher.
Data from AirROI shows that 63.2% of Airbnb listings charge a cleaning fee. The average cleaning fee is £55. Because hosts must use professional cleaners more often, these fees might increase. This could make Airbnb more expensive for travelers.
Some hosts are already changing their plans. One host, Anthony Marsh, has already reduced his listings. He had five listings, but now he only has two. He feels the new rules make it harder to manage his properties. Many guests want a relaxing stay without doing chores, but they also want good prices. If prices go up, guests might choose to stay in hotels instead. The industry is watching to see how these changes affect hosts and guests.