An Airbnb house manual serves as the comprehensive operating guide for a rental property, acting as a direct line of communication between the host and the guest. This detailed document proactively answers common questions and provides clear instructions for navigating the space. A well-constructed manual sets behavioral expectations, safeguards the host’s property, and minimizes the need for host intervention. Providing this clarity ensures guests feel comfortable and confident in their temporary environment from the moment they arrive.
Critical Logistical Information
The most immediate information a guest needs revolves around access and connectivity, which should be easily located at the beginning of the manual. Detailed instructions for the check-in process, including the location of the key or lockbox and the correct code, must be precise and easy to follow. The check-out process requires specific guidance, detailing where to leave keys and what switches to toggle before departure.
For guests arriving by car, clear parking instructions are necessary to prevent fines or towing. This should specify the exact parking stall number, if applicable, or detail street parking restrictions and permit requirements. The Wi-Fi network name and password are a high-priority inclusion. This connectivity information should be clearly displayed and double-checked for accuracy before any guest arrival.
Clear and Concise House Rules
Establishing behavioral expectations helps ensure the property is respected and that neighborhood relations remain positive. The manual should clearly outline quiet hours, typically beginning between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM, to respect permanent residents. The smoking policy must be explicit, defining whether smoking is prohibited entirely or if there is a designated outdoor area.
Rules governing pets, if permitted, need to specify size restrictions, approved breeds, and requirements regarding keeping them off furniture or managing waste. Hosts must clearly state the policy on unregistered guests and visitors, often limiting the number of people allowed to maintain security and comply with insurance policies. The manual should also include simple instructions for departure cleanliness, such as requiring guests to load the dishwasher or consolidate trash.
Operational Instructions for the Property
This section provides guidance for using the property’s systems and amenities, which prevents common malfunctions and guest frustration. Operating instructions should focus on appliances or systems that are not universally intuitive. Providing this detail reduces the likelihood of guests contacting the host with questions.
HVAC and Thermostat Use
Detailed instructions for controlling the heating and cooling systems are necessary, particularly if the property uses a smart thermostat model like Nest or Ecobee. The manual should clearly identify the location of the thermostat and provide a step-by-step guide on how to switch between heating and cooling modes. Including specific temperature recommendations, such as a range between 70 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit, can help manage energy consumption and ensure guest comfort. Guests should also be reminded to avoid leaving the system running when doors or windows are open, or when they leave the property for extended periods.
Entertainment Systems
Guidance for the entertainment setup should cover the basic operation of the television and any connected components, such as soundbars or streaming devices. The instructions should explain which remote control corresponds to which device and the correct input or source to select for accessing content. If streaming accounts are provided, simple steps for logging in or selecting a profile should be included, along with a note on how to connect personal devices via screen mirroring or Bluetooth. A simple diagram of the remote controls with labels can be a helpful visual aid for guests.
Kitchen Appliances and Inventory
Complex kitchen appliances often require specific instructions to prevent damage or misuse, especially induction stovetops, high-end coffee machines, or combination microwave ovens. The manual should detail how to turn on and properly operate these items, focusing only on the basic functions the guest will need. Information on where to locate basic inventory, such as extra trash bags, cleaning supplies, or additional towels, should also be included to allow guests to quickly self-service their needs.
Waste Disposal and Recycling Protocols
Clear, localized instructions for waste management are important due to the wide variation in municipal sorting and collection schedules. The manual must specify the collection day for both trash and recycling, along with the exact location where bins should be placed for pickup. Specific details on sorting requirements, such as whether glass and plastic must be separated or if specific items are prohibited, should be clearly outlined to avoid fines. Hosts should also indicate the location of all designated trash bins within the property.
Laundry Facilities
If a washer and dryer are available, the manual should specify their location within the property and provide basic operating instructions. This includes guidance on selecting simple cycles, such as a normal wash or medium heat dry, and where to find the detergent or fabric softener. For newer machines with digital controls, a brief explanation of the power-up sequence and cycle selection can prevent guests from struggling to start a load.
Essential Safety and Emergency Procedures
Safety information must be prominently displayed and immediately accessible in the event of a crisis. The manual should list emergency contact numbers, including the local equivalent of 911, the host’s emergency phone number, and a local non-emergency line. Clear directions for the property’s evacuation procedure must be provided, detailing exit routes and a designated outdoor meeting spot.
The location of all safety equipment needs to be explicitly noted, including fire extinguishers, the first aid kit, and carbon monoxide detectors. It is helpful to provide the addresses and contact information for the nearest urgent care center and hospital. Consolidating this information equips guests to handle unexpected situations efficiently.
Local Recommendations and Transportation Guide
Offering curated local suggestions moves the manual beyond simple property instructions to a personalized guide. This section should focus on practical necessities and local establishments that enhance a stay. Recommendations for nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and coffee shops are practical inclusions, often accompanied by the distance or walking time.
Specific suggestions for local restaurants, cafes, or bakeries that reflect the neighborhood’s unique character are more valuable than generic tourist listings. Transportation guidance should detail the nearest public transit stops and provide instructions for purchasing tickets or using local transit apps. Including contact information for reliable local taxi services or tips for using rideshare applications simplifies guest movement.
Tips for Formatting and Delivering the Manual
The effectiveness of a manual is determined by its presentation and accessibility, requiring hosts to consider both format and tone. A combination of physical and digital formats ensures accessibility; a laminated binder serves as a physical reference, while a PDF or link provides a digital backup. Using clear headings, short paragraphs, and visual aids like photos of complex appliances improves readability.
The tone of the manual should remain friendly and professional, balancing firm expectations with a welcoming disposition. For non-emergency maintenance issues, the manual must clearly state the best method for contacting the host or property manager. This ensures guests know the proper channel for communication without resorting to emergency contact methods for routine matters.