Most separate guest contracts are off the table for new Airbnb bookings. Here are the four exceptions, and how to protect your property without a signed agreement.
By the StayLocal team · November 2026 · 4 min read
- For bookings made on or after Nov 20, 2026, hosts generally can't require a separate contract.
- Four exceptions remain, including monthly stays of 28+ nights.
- Your protection now comes from clear house rules, screening, claims and insurance.
What changed
Before, many hosts sent a rental agreement after booking, often with ID requests, damage terms and fines. For Airbnb reservations booked on or after November 20, 2026, hosts generally can't ask guests to sign a contract separate from their Airbnb booking. Reports on the policy also say hosts generally can't collect copies of guest IDs. A blanket waiver doesn't get around it.
The four exceptions
| Required by law or HOA | When a law or community association demands it |
| Optional add-ons | Like a golf cart or equipment rental |
| 28+ night stays | Monthly bookings can still use one |
| Luxe listings | Airbnb's luxury tier |
Any permitted terms still need to be disclosed before booking. The 28-night exception is one more reason monthly stays are worth a look in the slow season.
How to protect your property without one
1. Put every rule in the house rules section. Occupancy, quiet hours, pets, parties, smoking. Clear, specific rules disclosed up front are what Airbnb holds guests to, and breaking one can let you cancel without penalty.
2. Screen before you accept. Read the inquiry, check reviews and trip purpose, and use booking requirements Airbnb allows. Most problems are visible before the stay.
3. File damage claims fast. Damage goes through Airbnb's Resolution Center. Claims generally need to be filed within 14 days of checkout, or before the next guest arrives if that's sooner. Photograph every turnover.
4. Carry real short-term rental insurance. Platform protections aren't insurance. A dedicated STR policy covers what they don't.
Protection without the paperwork.
StayLocal screens every guest, keeps house rules current with Airbnb policy and files damage claims for you. Owners see every stay in a live portal.
Talk to our teamIndependent summary of Airbnb's published policy as of November 2026. Not affiliated with Airbnb and not legal advice.