Let’s face it: writing house rules can feel like walking a tightrope.
Go too soft, and guests miss the point. Go too strict, and you sound like you’re running a bootcamp. The goal is to make expectations clear—without making your guests feel like they’re being scolded before they’ve even dropped their bags.
I’ve read hundreds of house rules in my time as a host (and a guest), and I can tell you: most of them are either too vague or way too intense.
Here’s how to get it just right.
1. First, Ditch the Passive-Aggressive Tone
Let’s get this out of the way...
“Failure to follow these rules will result in immediate eviction and fines.”
That line? It’s doing you no favors.
Yes, you need to protect your space—but tone matters. Guests are more likely to follow your rules when they feel like you’re a real person, not a grumpy landlord with a laminated threat list.
Try this instead:
“We love hosting and want you to have a great stay. These rules help us keep the space awesome for everyone—thanks for following them!”
Same boundaries. Friendlier delivery.
2. The Must-Haves (No Skipping These)
Here’s what every host should include—no matter your space:
✅ Check-in/Check-out Times
Be specific. Add buffer time for cleaning if needed. Checkout our Checkout Checklist Magnets as a reference.
✅ WiFi Info (Clearly Posted + Easy to Read)
Don’t rely on app messages. This info needs to live in the space, like our WiFi magnets.
✅ No Smoking / Pet Policy / Party Rules
Airbnb will back you up, but only if it’s in writing (like using our No Smoking Magnets.)
✅ Trash + Recycling Info
It may not be glamorous, but it’s necessary. Ourare a great solution.
3. The Nice-to-Haves (If You Want Less Guest Confusion)
These aren’t mandatory—but including them can save you a dozen messages and a star or two:
✅ How to Check Out Properly
Keep it short, clear, and visible. Think: “strip the bed” or “take trash out.”
✅ Airbnb Ratings Explanation
Airbnb's rating system can be confusing to guests, so you need to educate them. Our Review Explanation Magnets are a great way to do that without being pushy.
✅ Noise Awareness
Especially for apartments or shared buildings. A simple “quiet hours from 10pm–8am” does the trick.
✅ How to Use the Thermostat
Especially if it’s not intuitive. (Looking at you, Nest.)
✅ Parking Instructions (if applicable)
Save your guests (and neighbors) the confusion.
4. What to Leave Out
You don’t need a novel. Here’s what to skip:
❌ Excessive details about cleaning
No guest wants a chore list. Keep it minimal.
❌ Rules that feel like threats
Avoid legalese or fines unless absolutely necessary.
❌ Over-explaining your personal preferences
You may hate shoes indoors, but if it’s not enforceable, don’t make it awkward.
5. Make It Visible (Without Making It Ugly)
Even the best-written rules don’t help if your guests never see them.
Relying on Airbnb’s app is risky because guests often miss or forget the info. A printed binder is fine but often ignored. The sweet spot? Clear, eye-catching signs that live where guests can’t miss them.
Think:
✅ Checkout checklist sign near the door.
✅ Wifi sign in the bedroom or kitchen.
✅ Trash day reminder in the kitchen.
✅ No smoking sign in a common area.
✅ Review explanation magnet on the fridge.
They’re not just functional—they’re a visual cue that communicates without nagging.
Final Thoughts: Clear, Kind, and On the Fridge
House rules don’t have to feel harsh. When you strike the right balance between clarity and friendliness - and make them actually visible - you protect your space, reduce friction, and set your guests up to succeed.
And when they know what’s expected? They check out like pros, leave your space in great shape, and maybe even leave that golden 5-star review.
Want Your House Rules to Actually Be Seen?
Check out our checkout checklist magnets, designed by hosts, for hosts, to keep things simple and stress-free.
Click here to shop all of our Airbnb host magnet collections!