Couple stunned by bizarre Airbnb house rules after check-in
A couple staying in an Istanbul Airbnb were taken aback by unusual house rules during their visit. Notes left in the apartment restricted how they could use the bed and even the TV remote. The unexpected restrictions raised questions about how clearly hosts communicate their expectations to guests.
The couple discovered the rules only after arriving at the rental. One note on the bed warned against certain uses, while another on the TV remote limited its operation to simply turning the device on and off. Though surprised, they noticed additional details in the flat hinting at past noise complaints from neighbours.
Airbnb’s platform requires hosts to list all house rules before a booking is confirmed. This policy aims to help guests make informed choices about their stay. However, if rules aren’t properly disclosed, the company’s Community Support team is available 24/7 to assist with concerns.
The company’s official guidelines prevent hosts from charging extra fees for tasks like cleaning or checkout procedures. They can, though, reflect cleanliness issues in reviews and ratings. Guests who encounter problems within 72 hours of arrival may qualify for refunds or help finding alternative accommodations under Airbnb’s Rebooking and Refund Policy.
To avoid similar surprises, travellers are advised to review all listed rules, read past guest feedback, and ask hosts directly about any unclear expectations. Airbnb also encourages open communication between hosts and guests to resolve issues before escalating them to support or seeking compensation for damages.
The incident highlights the importance of clear communication between hosts and guests on Airbnb’s platform. While the company provides tools to address disputes, checking rules and reviews beforehand can help travellers avoid unexpected restrictions. Guests who face undisclosed rules may still receive support or refunds if they report issues promptly.
