Airbnb must actively listen to host concerns and act on them!

I wanted to update fellow hosts on the steps that have been taken to challenge Airbnb’s new house rules policy, which will generally prevent hosts from requiring guests to wash and put away their dishes.

I have now written formally to Airbnb’s UK press team, requesting that our objections be forwarded to senior management and those responsible for host policy.

The letter explains why we believe Airbnb is failing to distinguish between excessive cleaning demands and the ordinary domestic responsibilities associated with self-catering accommodation.

It also raises a wider concern about Airbnb’s relationship with its hosts. Major policy decisions appear increasingly to be made with little meaningful consultation with the people whose properties and livelihoods are directly affected.

Thank you for supporting the petition. There is clearly substantial support and agreement from fellow hosts that these proposed changes are unreasonable and foolish. My intention is to present this collective objection to Airbnb’s senior management, seek the involvement of its Host Advisory Board and encourage wider media scrutiny of the decision.

I recognise that Airbnb has a history of pressing ahead with corporate policy changes despite objections from hosts. Nevertheless, I believe it is important that we make our collective concerns known, rather than simply accept another unilateral decision.

I have asked Airbnb to reconsider the washing-up restriction before its implementation on 20 November and to engage meaningfully with its host community.

I will share any substantive response I receive.

In the meantime, I would welcome other hosts’ views, particularly on how this change will affect their properties, cleaning arrangements and operating costs.

Has anyone received a meaningful response from Airbnb about this policy, or been consulted about its introduction?

Harry