Responsible hosting in the United States

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

🌊 Welcome to Your Pool Rental & Experience Hosting Guide! 🌟

Hello, amazing host! Ready to dive into creating memorable experiences for your guests while ensuring safety and cleanliness? Here's your friendly how-to guide to help you keep everything shipshape.

🧼 Health and Cleanliness

Cleaning Tips

  • Pre-Cleaning Wait Time: Follow CDC guidelines by allowing proper ventilation before entering the space for cleaning.
  • Chemical Labels: Understand OSHA's instructions on reading chemical labels to ensure safe use.
  • General Guidelines: Use CDC and EPA resources for comprehensive cleaning and disinfection tips, especially concerning COVID-19.

πŸ›‘οΈ Safety First!

Emergency Procedures

  • Contact Info: Clearly display local emergency numbers and the nearest hospital. Provide your contact details and a backup for any guest inquiries or emergencies.
  • Supplies: Keep a first aid kit easily accessible.

Fire Prevention

  • Alarms & Detectors: Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functional and meet local safety guidelines.
  • Fire Extinguisher: Provide a working fire extinguisher and maintain it regularly.
  • Exits: Clearly mark fire escape routes and post a map in your home.

🚸 Minimizing Hazards

Occupancy & Access

  • Limits: Set safe occupancy limits based on local guidelines.
  • Hazard Inspection: Regularly check for potential tripping hazards, exposed wires, and unsafe stairs. Address or clearly mark these issues.

Child-Proofing

  • Ensure your space is child-safe or inform guests of any potential hazards.

Climate Control

  • Ventilation & Temperature: Ensure proper ventilation and clearly marked temperature controls. Provide instructions for safe heater use.

πŸ”’ Privacy and Neighbor Considerations

Privacy

  • Disclosure: Inform guests about any security cameras or noise monitors. Remember, no indoor cameras are allowed.
  • Compliance: Adhere to all applicable privacy laws.

Neighbor Relations

  • Building Rules: Share any common area rules with guests and inform neighbors about your hosting activities.
  • Smoking: Post signs if smoking is prohibited. If allowed, provide ashtrays in designated areas.
  • Parking: Clearly communicate parking rules.
  • Noise: Set quiet hours and inform guests about noise expectations to prevent disturbances.

🐾 Pets and House Rules

Pets

  • Education: Inform guests about local pet customs and provide a backup plan if pets cause issues, like a nearby pet hotel contact.

House Rules

  • Include all the above information in your house rules to avoid surprises.

πŸ“ Permissions and Legal Considerations

Contracts and Roommates

  • HOA/Lease Checks: Verify your HOA or lease agreement allows hosting. Consider adding a rider to address responsibilities.
  • Roommate Agreements: If applicable, outline hosting plans and revenue sharing with roommates.

Local Regulations

  • Taxes and Permits: Research any local taxes or permits required for hosting.
  • Rent Control: Check with your local rent board if you live in rent-controlled housing.

🌐 Community and Support

Join a Local Host Club

  • Connect with local hosts for advice and support. If you can't find a group, try searching on social media platforms like Facebook.

Important Considerations

  • Taxes: Understand your tax responsibilities. Ernst and Young provide a guide on US rental income taxation (note: this is not an endorsement).
  • Insurance: Review insurance needs with your agent to ensure adequate coverage.

By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for your guests while maintaining a welcoming and respectful environment. Happy hosting! πŸŠβ€β™€οΈβœ¨