Airbnb Announces New Rules That Limit Checkout Chores: What MA Travelers Need To Know

Massachusetts residents booking an Airbnb for a getaway may soon have fewer chores standing between them and checkout.

For reservations booked on or after Nov. 20, hosts generally won't be allowed to ask guests to strip beds, wash and put away dishes or take trash off the property.

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The vacation rental platform's new policy limits requests for chores that take substantial time or effort or would typically be handled by cleaning staff.

Hosts also won't be able to spring new rules on guests after they book. All house rules and requests must appear in the designated section of the listing beforehand, rather than arriving later in a message or on a sign inside the rental.

The policy generally bars hosts from imposing fines or limiting access to amenities advertised in the listing. Any charges for those features must be included in the price guests see when booking.

Some exceptions may apply. A host in bear country, for example, could reasonably ask guests to put trash in an animal-proof container. Local drought restrictions could justify a request to keep showers short.

Guests still must follow house rules and are encouraged to honor reasonable requests.

Hosts who don't follow the policy could receive warnings or be told to update their listings. Continued violations could bring a notice flagging the issue to prospective guests, less visibility in search results or other enforcement action.

Here is a look at some popular Airbnbs in Massachusetts that will be impacted by the new rules.

House of Three Gables — Salem

This three-bedroom apartment in Salem's historic Derby Street neighborhood accommodates up to six guests. The rental includes a full kitchen, parking for four vehicles and a shared backyard near the waterfront, museums and Salem-to-Boston ferry. According to Airbnb, the property has a 5-star rating from 405 reviews and ranks among its top 1 percent of eligible homes based on ratings, reviews and reliability.

Mink Cove Treehouse — Wareham

Guests cross a suspension bridge to reach this treehouse, which sits 12 feet above the ground overlooking Mink Cove in Buzzards Bay. The rental accommodates two guests and includes a porch, outdoor shower and access to nearby walking trails. A narrow spiral staircase leads to the sleeping area. The property has a 4.97-star rating from 246 reviews.

"Cozy Cottage" on Great Bay — Falmouth

This one-bedroom waterfront cottage accommodates two guests and offers access to a seasonal dock, kayaks, a canoe and a rowboat. Inside, guests will find a gas fireplace, central air conditioning and a full kitchen. The rental has a 4.94-star rating from 235 reviews and ranks among Airbnb's top 5 percent of eligible homes.

Beacon Hill Townhouse Apartment — Boston

A duplex in an 1828 townhouse facing the Public Garden offers approximately 1,700 square feet of space near Boston Common and Charles Street. The apartment accommodates seven guests across four bedrooms and includes 2.5 bathrooms, high ceilings and original pocket doors. The property has a 4.98-star rating from 201 reviews and ranks among Airbnb's top 5 percent of eligible homes.

Mid-Century Glass Octagon — Otis

This eight-sided home sits on seven private wooded acres in the Berkshires. The rental accommodates four guests and features floor-to-ceiling windows, a wood-burning fireplace and a large deck with a fire pit. The property has a 4.95-star rating from 490 reviews.