Airbnb is serious about ensuring its codified party ban is upheld and is going a step further to help hosts address potential noise issues. Airbnb Hosts can now qualify for a free Minut noise sensor, which has been integrated into Airbnb’s messaging tool.
Minut has been on a drive to ensure hosts benefit from its game-changing technology, recently integrating with preferred Airbnb PMS provider iGMS enabling hosts to manage possible noise issues across multiple vacation rental properties and listings.
A recent pilot in Prague enabled Hosts on Airbnb to trial Minut noise sensors, and found a reminder can be all that’s needed for a potential noise issue to be quickly resolved, with Hosts and guests able to solve 100% of noise alerts between them within 20 minutes of detection.
Exclusive offer for Hosts on Airbnb
To support hosts, Airbnb in promoting responsible travel in their communities, we’re offering a Minut sensor and 3 months of subscription (Pro or Standard) for free. Now open to Hosts in over 60 countries and regions.
It applies to the first year of the subscription plan only and can only be redeemed once per Airbnb account, for up to 10 listings.
Though this technology is privacy-safe, Airbnb still requires Hosts to disclose the presence of these devices on their listing page in advance of bookings, and strictly prohibits devices in spaces like bedrooms and other sleeping areas.
This means if a device detects that noise in a listing exceeds the decibel level set by the Host, an automatic notification can be sent by Minut through the Airbnb messaging tool to let the Host and guest know.
Airbnb’s ongoing commitment to fighting disruptive parties
In 2021, over 6,600 guests were suspended from Airbnb for attempting to violate our party ban. In these cases, the platform also works to support Hosts with property damage protection via AirCover for Hosts.
Airbnb also developed its updated policy with input from members of the new Airbnb Trust & Safety Advisory Coalition, and we will continue working to strengthen the policy based on feedback from our partners, Hosts, community leaders, policymakers and more.
This collaboration is the latest in a series of measures and resources to promote responsible travel on Airbnb. Other efforts include the launch of new anti-party technology in the US, Canada and Australia; the expansion of the 24-hour safety line and Neighborhood Support Line, and tips for Hosts on how to prevent parties in their property.
What you need to know about Airbnb’s party ban policy
This new and long-term policy was enacted to help encourage and support community safety.
Disruptive parties and events will continue to be prohibited, including open-invite gatherings. “Party house” properties will continue to be strictly prohibited as well. The temporary party ban policy announced in summer 2020 included a 16-person occupancy cap — which was prompted primarily by COVID-19 concerns around large gatherings prior to the introduction of vaccines.
As part of the updated policy, and based on feedback from a number of Hosts who have listings that can house above 16 people comfortably, Airbnb says this cap has since been removed.
However, Airbnb says, “Strong policies must be complemented by strong enforcement. We’ve introduced a number of anti-party measures in recent years to enforce our policy and try, to the best of our ability, to stop both unauthorized parties and chronic party house.”
Added tips for hosts to avoid noise complaints from neighbors
1. Set out clear house rules and penalties for breaking them
Make sure guests are aware, if you have a guest limit in place, as well as the consequences of Airbnb’s ban on parties and loud music altogether. Also, set clear quiet times and parking instructions. After all, just like you are expected to abide by rules as a homeowner, your Airbnb guests will also need to respect these community rules when they stay at your property.
To help enforce your rules, you can charge a security deposit or inform guests that they can be charged a fine for breaking these house rules and make sure that you communicate this clearly in your house rules too.
2. Keep your neighbors informed
Make a point of introducing yourself in person to your neighbors and share with them the plans you have for the property, before you even publish your Airbnb listing.
Don’t only wait until there is an issue, keep communication lines open with your neighbors. It’s also a good idea to share details like when Airbnb guests will be checking in and checking out. This should help build trust and can easily be done via email or text message.
3. Take complaints seriously
Hosts should act immediately when a neighbor complains, especially important if you’re dealing with noise complaints. Keep in mind that while there might be no zoning laws preventing you from running a short-term rental, there are still laws regarding noise levels and parking.
Airbnb also has a Neighborhood Support process that concerned neighbors can use to submit complaints to the platform online. Your neighbors will have every right to take legal action and law suites are expensive.
If the Airbnb neighbor complaints continue, it could even mean that your short-term rental permit gets revoked.
5. Screen your guests
Reviews are there to help you. While you’ll be only too happy to receive a booking request, rather decline inquiries from guests who have received a number of bad reviews. Your screening process should include checking against dodgy profiles, poor communication, and potential guests who are reluctant to share their trip details.
Guest screening software solutions like Superhog and Safely, can also help you to reduce the workload and speed up the screening process.
Things have come a long for Airbnb hosts, and it couldn’t be easier to ensure your vacation rental is an asset to you as well as your neighborhood.