House rules template: Clear guidelines for vacation rental guests
Clear house rules set expectations and protect your property. Learn how to write rules that are firm but friendly, and where to display them for maximum visibility.
Key takeaways
- •State rules clearly and positively when possible.
- •Display house rules in multiple places: listing, guest guide, and in the property.
- •Include consequences for rule violations to set clear boundaries.
Utilisez votre house rules template avec l'automatisation Booking.com
Que vous créiez un house rules template ou amélioriez un existant, vous pouvez le connecter à Booking.com et utiliser le même lien de guide dans les messages automatisés. Les invités reçoivent des réponses cohérentes et vous avez moins de questions répétées, quel que soit le canal de réservation.
Common problems hosts face
- •Guests don't read or remember house rules from the listing
- •Rules feel too strict or too lenient
- •Uncertain how to enforce rules without seeming unfriendly
- •Rules are buried in long messages and guests miss them
What good solutions should include
- •Include house rules in your guest guide where guests can easily find them
- •Write rules in a friendly but firm tone
- •Display rules prominently in the property as well
- •Reference rules in check-in and checkout messages
Practical tips from experienced hosts
- Start with the most important rules: quiet hours, no parties, no smoking.
- Use positive language when possible: "Please enjoy quiet hours after 10 PM" instead of "No noise after 10 PM."
- Include pet policies, parking rules, and checkout procedures.
- Post a printed version in the property as a reminder.
Action step: Pick one practice from this guide to implement this week. Test it with your next booking and measure the impact on guest questions and reviews.
Options compared
Choose the approach that fits your needs.| Option | Best for | Why it works / doesn't |
|---|---|---|
| Listing only | Minimal | Guests may not review listing details before arrival, easy to miss. |
| Long message | Partial | Gets buried in inbox, hard to reference during stay. |
| Guest guide + property display | Complete | Visible in multiple places, easy to reference, sets clear expectations. |
Where Host Pilot fits
- •Include house rules prominently in your guest guide.
- •Update rules anytime and share the updated guide instantly.
- •Make rules easily accessible so guests can reference them during their stay.
FAQ
What are the most important house rules to include?+
Noise/quiet hours, no parties, no smoking, pet policies, parking rules, and checkout procedures. Tailor to your property and local regulations.
How strict should my house rules be?+
Be firm on rules that protect your property and neighbors (noise, parties), but flexible where possible. Clear rules prevent misunderstandings.
Should I post house rules in the property?+
Yes, post them in a visible location like the kitchen or entryway. This serves as a reminder and helps enforce rules if needed.
Related guides
Ready to create your guest guide?
Use this guide to build an effective guest guide for your property. When you're ready, Host Pilot can help you create mobile-friendly guides with QR codes, local recommendations, and easy updates.
