Airbnb’s upcoming Off-Platform and Fee Transparency Policy update has caused a wave of confusion in the hosting world. As of May 10, 2025, strict new rules are coming into effect, and Airbnb’s AI is already enforcing them — often aggressively. Here’s what’s changing, what you need to avoid, and how to stay compliant and competitive.

At Hosthub, we’ve been following updates closely, including insights from Airbnb’s senior team and trusted industry players like Operto, StayFi, Tourmie etc. Here’s the breakdown:

✅ What Was Allowed (Until Now)

Previously, hosts could:

• List extra fees (cleaning, resort, pet, etc.) in the listing description.
• Collect security deposits, ID documents, and waivers outside of Airbnb.
• Request emails or contact info from guests for marketing or rebooking.
• Use guest portals and guidebooks that linked to external content or required login.
• Encourage direct bookings for repeat guests.
• Ask for reviews off-platform (Google, TripAdvisor, etc.).
  

❌ What’s Changing on May 10

Airbnb is locking down its platform tighter than ever:

1. All Fees Must Be Declared via Airbnb Fields
   • Pet fees, resort fees, taxes, cleaning charges — everything must be in Airbnb’s pricing fields.
   • No fees are allowed in the description or handled outside Airbnb.
2. Security Deposits & Waivers: PMS-Only
   • Only software-connected PMS platforms (like Hosthub) can collect IDs, security deposits, or waivers.
   • These must be handled outside Airbnb’s chat — never through its messaging.
3. Guest Emails: Only via Safe Tools
   • Tools like StayFi (Wi-Fi opt-in), Tourmie (guest experience), and PMS integrations are safe.
   • Do not ask for emails in Airbnb messages or make email collection mandatory for check-in.
4. AI Monitoring Airbnb Messages
   • Airbnb’s AI is scanning every single message for:
     • Email addresses or phone numbers
     • “Book direct” language
     • Payment outside the platform
     • Links to other websites or platforms
   • Even innocent phrases or repeat guest messages can trigger warnings or penalties.
5. Third-Party Apps Under Fire
   • Guest portals, registration forms, and guidebooks with booking links or external redirects are now risky.
   • Use dual versions: one Airbnb-safe, one full version for direct bookings (via SMS or PMS).
6. Off-Platform Review Requests Banned
   • No more asking for reviews anywhere other than Airbnb.
7. Change Reservations = Airbnb Tool Only
   • All reservation-related changes (fees, nights, guests) must go through Airbnb’s official “Change Reservation” tool.
     

What You Should Do Now

1. Use a PMS (Property Management System)
   If you don’t already have one, get one. It’s now essential.
2. Review All Listings and Remove External Prompts
   No links, no email requests, no rebooking nudges.
3. Create Separate Guidebook Versions
   Airbnb-safe (no links), and full version (sent via email/SMS or external trusted tools). 
4. Use Trusted Tools
   StayFi, Tourmie, and compliant PMS tools are your friends.

Who’s Exempt?

• Hotels, serviced apartments, and API-connected operators have more leeway.
• Independent hosts are the ones most affected.

Broader Impact & Opportunities

• Guest portals, guidebooks, and insurance tools will need to adapt quickly.
• Hosts who go fully compliant now will avoid penalties and delisting.
• There’s opportunity for better automation, smarter tools, and more secure direct booking flows.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t just a policy tweak — it’s Airbnb doubling down on platform control. But with the right tools, strategy, and mindset, you can stay compliant and grow stronger.

Hosthub is here to support you every step of the way. From channel management to direct booking tools, we help you operate safely and smartly — no matter what Airbnb changes next.

Stay compliant. Stay booked. Stay in control.