HostPrep Kit / Free guides

House rules for holiday rentals: a free template to copy

Good house rules are short, friendly and match what your listing already says. Guests are more likely to follow rules that explain themselves.

Free template: house rules (edit the parts in brackets)

Check-in is from [15:00] and check-out is by [11:00]. If you need a different time, just ask and we will do our best.
Quiet hours are [22:00 to 08:00]. The neighbours are close, so please keep music and voices down.
No smoking inside the property, including e-cigarettes. You are welcome to smoke [in the garden / on the balcony].
Visitors: only guests on the booking may stay overnight. [No parties or events, please.]
Pets: [Sorry, no pets / Well-behaved pets are welcome; please keep them off beds and sofas].
Rubbish: please sort recycling as shown in the kitchen. Bins go out on [day].
Keys: please return keys to [the lockbox] when you leave.
Breakages: accidents happen. Please tell us so we can fix things before the next guest.
On departure: please load the dishwasher, close the windows and turn off the lights.

Thank you, and enjoy your stay. [Your name and contact number]

Tips

Keep it to one page. If it needs a second page, some of it belongs in the welcome book instead.
Make sure the rules match your listing, so nothing comes as a surprise.
Explain the reason where it helps (“the neighbours are close”). People respond better to reasons.
Check local rules on what you must tell guests, such as safety information or occupancy limits.