Adriaan de Jager
Jul 28, 2025 • 2 min readHouse rules might not be the most exciting part of hosting, but they’re absolutely essential. Clear, friendly rules help set expectations, avoid misunderstandings, and create a smooth experience for both you and your guests.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to include in your house rules and how Bookingmood can help you communicate them effortlessly.
When you clearly lay out what’s allowed (and what’s not), you:
It’s not about being strict, it’s about being clear.
Here’s a simple list of what to consider including:
Let guests know when they can arrive and when they need to leave. If you're flexible, mention that too; it's a big plus!
Are parties allowed? Is there a quiet period? Especially important if your place is in a residential area.
Make it clear whether smoking is allowed: inside, outside, or not at all.
Are pets welcome? If so, are there size or breed restrictions? Can they be left alone? Be specific.
This avoids overcrowding and keeps your property safe (and legal).
Spell out how to use hot tubs, fireplaces, BBQs, pools, or anything else with potential risks.
Let guests know where to park, how many cars are allowed, and whether permits are needed.
If guests are expected to take out the trash or recycle, explain how and where.
Encourage guests to report issues right away. A simple line like “Please let us know if something breaks, we won’t bite!” can go a long way.
In some areas (especially cities), you might be required to include legal notices about noise, occupancy, or guest registration.
With Bookingmood, you can:
Pro tip: Keep your tone friendly but firm. You’re setting boundaries, not writing a legal contract.
House rules help everyone have a better experience. They protect your space, clarify expectations, and help guests feel more confident and comfortable.
With Bookingmood, it’s easy to keep your rules visible without sounding like a grumpy landlord.
Try Bookingmood for free and make hosting smoother than ever.
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Why house rules matterThe ultimate house rules checklistCheck-in and check-out timesNoise levelsSmoking policyPetsMaximum number of guestsUse of amenitiesParking infoGarbage & recyclingDamage & repairsLocal lawsHow to share your house rules with guestsHouse rules with BookingmoodShare this article