We encourage hosts to think carefully about their responsibilities. Hosting offers rich experiences, but it comes with a certain level of commitment. In addition to the basic requirements that we expect of all hosts, here are some ways you can be a responsible host.*

Health and cleanliness

Global information can be found in guestKo’s enhanced cleaning protocol 

Key recommendations on cleaning

• Recommendations on waiting to enter the space before cleaning and disinfection from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• An explanation on how to read chemical labels from the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 

General resources

• For cleaning and disinfection guidelines, interim recommendations from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• For US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidance on COVID-19, the key EPA resources on the coronavirus disease

Safety

What can I do to make my space safe for guests?

Emergency procedures

Contact info

Indicate local emergency numbers and the nearest hospital. Provide a clear emergency contact number for yourself, as well as backup, for easy guest reference. Also make clear how you should be contacted if the guest has questions or issues arise.

Supplies

Make a first aid kit easily available.

Fire prevention

Ensure you have a functioning smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector and that your property meets government safety guidelines for your area (ex: International Building Code). Ensure you provide a functioning fire extinguisher and complete required maintenance.

Exits

Ensure you have a clearly marked fire escape route, and post a map in your home.

Minimize hazards

Privacy

Always be mindful of your guests’ privacy. Fully disclose whether there are security cameras or other surveillance equipment at or around your listing. Make sure you are aware of and comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Occupancy

Establish safe occupancy limits – your local government may have guidelines.

Access

Go through your home to identify any areas where guests might trip or fall and either remove the hazard or mark clearly. Fix any exposed wires. Ensure stairs are safe and have railings. Remove or lock up any objects that may be dangerous to your guests.

Child-proofing

Ensure your home is safe for children, or else notify guests of potential hazards.

Climate

Ensure your home is properly ventilated and that temperature control is clearly marked and functional. Ensure guests are clear about how to safely use the heater.

Neighbors

How can I be mindful of my neighbors?

Building rules

Ensure you relay your building’s common area rules to your guest. You may want to even notify your neighbors that you will have guests, and remind guests not to bother your neighbors (ex: don’t knock on their door or buzz them to let you in).

Smoking

If you don’t allow smoking, we suggest posting signs to remind guests. If you do allow smoking, ensure you have ashtrays available in designated areas.

Parking

Ensure you relay parking rules for your building and neighborhood to your guest.

Noise

Remind guests about keeping noise down. You may want to consider whether you allow babies, pets, or parties. Develop a policy about guests inviting other people over, and ensure your guests are clear about your ‘party policy.’

Pets

If you allow pets, ensure guests are educated about things like local parks and local customs (ex: cleaning up after your dog). Have a backup plan in case a guest’s pet upsets the neighbors (such as the number of a nearby pet hotel).

House Rules

To avoid surprises, you may want to include the information covered above in your House Rules in your guestKo listing profile.

Permissions

Whom should I notify that I’m hosting on guestKo?

Contracts

Check your HOA or Co-Op Board regulations to make sure there is no prohibition against subletting–or any other restriction against hosting. Read your lease agreement and check with your landlord if applicable. You may consider adding a rider to your contract that addresses the concerns of these parties and outlines the responsibilities and liabilities of all parties.

Roommates

If you have roommates, consider a roommate agreement in writing which outlines things like how often you plan to host, how you’ll ensure guests follow House Rules, and even whether you’ll share revenue if that makes sense for you.

Neighbors

Consider whether you should notify your neighbors about your plans to host, along with your plan for how to make sure your guests are not disruptive.

Subsidized housing

If you live in public or subsidized housing there may be special rules that apply to you. The manager of the property may be able to answer questions about this.

General regulations

What local regulations apply to me?

Taxes

Ensure you look up any local taxes or business license requirements that may apply. This may include things like hotel/transient occupancy tax, sales, and other turnover taxes such as Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST), or income tax.

Permits or registrations

Ensure you look up any permitting, zoning, safety, and health regulations that may apply. The governing authorities that regulate the use and development of property in your area may have useful information on such regulations.

Rent control/rent stabilization

If you live in rent controlled or stabilized housing, there may be special rules that apply to you. Contact your local Rent board to ask questions about this topic.

Important things to check

Taxes

Taxes can be complicated, and you should take time to understand the rules as they apply to you and your particular situation for guestKo hosts relating to the US taxation of rental income: 

Disclaimer: Tax advice is complicated and you should do your own diligence when receiving advice. guestKo is not responsible for any tax or other advice provided by any outside entity.

Insurance

What insurance should I get to cover my home?

Host Guarantee

guestKo offers you our Host Guarantee for a minimul fee, but note this does not take the place of homeowners or renters insurance.

Basic coverage

Review your renters or homeowners policy with your insurance carrier to make sure you have adequate coverage.

Liability

Ensure you have adequate liability coverage as well as property protection.

* Please note that guestKo has no control over the conduct of Hosts and disclaims all liability. Failure of Hosts to satisfy their responsibilities may result in suspension of activity or removal from the guestKo website.