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House Rules Guide for Hosts

Set Clear Expectations to Ensure a Smooth Stay

Updated over 2 months ago

House rules help protect your property, set boundaries, and create a positive experience for both you and your guests. Whether you're hosting traveling healthcare professionals or other mid-term guests, establishing clear and respectful guidelines is key to avoiding confusion or conflict during a stay.

🧭 Why House Rules Matter

  • Promote respectful guest behavior

  • Protect your home and belongings

  • Reduce wear and tear on your property

  • Make expectations clear from the start

  • Help support dispute resolution if issues arise

✅ Common House Rules to Include

Feel free to customize these to fit your property:

  • Check-in/Check-out Times:
    Example: Check-in after 3:00 PM | Check-out by 11:00 AM

  • No Smoking:
    ​Smoking is not allowed inside the unit or on the property.

  • No Parties or Events:
    ​Quiet hours from 10 PM to 8 AM. No large gatherings.

  • Pet Policy:
    ​No pets allowed unless pre-approved in writing.
    ​(Or include pet rules if pets are allowed.)

  • Additional Guests:
    ​Only registered guests are allowed to stay overnight.

  • Parking Instructions:
    ​Use assigned space only. Do not block driveways or neighbors.

  • Cleanliness Expectations:
    ​Please leave the home in a tidy condition. Excessive mess may result in additional cleaning fees.

  • Safety & Respect:
    ​No illegal activity. Treat the home and neighbors with respect.

🧼 Optional Add-Ons

You may also want to include:

  • Laundry usage rules (e.g., times, shared access)

  • Trash & recycling instructions

  • Thermostat or HVAC guidelines

  • Appliance instructions (e.g., dishwasher, garbage disposal)

  • Maintenance request process during stay

💡 Tips for Writing Effective House Rules

  • Use clear, concise language

  • Avoid aggressive or overly harsh tone

  • Be specific when necessary (e.g., what “quiet hours” mean)

  • Keep formatting clean – use bullet points or short paragraphs

  • Add house rules to your listing description and welcome message

  • Review them with your cleaner or co-host to ensure consistency

Need help drafting your house rules?
The Vidle Housing team is happy to review or provide a sample template—just reach out! CustomerSupport@VidleHousing.com

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