Airbnb has a few changes planned starting in April, the latest of which is a ban on indoor security cameras by hosts at their properties, a move that follows its previously announced plan to add a 2% fee for cross-currency bookings.
The camera ban is set to begin on April 30, which will give hosts time to comply with the new rule, the vacation rental properties company said in a website update.
Previously, cameras were allowed in common areas, such as hallways and living rooms, as long as the host disclosed the location on their listing pages and the cameras were clearly visible, Airbnb said. But, after consulting with guests and privacy experts, the decision was made to no longer allow these cameras, it added.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Airbnb said that doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors are still permitted for hosts to monitor the security of their homes and prevent unauthorized parties, but they must disclose the presence of these devices in their listings pages.
Hosts may not, however, put outdoor cameras where guests have a greater expectation of privacy, such as if the property has a sauna, the company said.
The cross-currency bookings fee, which was announced last month and goes into effect on April 1, applies if you pay using a currency other than the one the host has set for the listing. The fee will be charged on top of all other service fees associated with bookings made on or after that day.
Airbnb also updated its terms of service, effective immediately for all first time users and on March 28 for existing users.
Types of Airbnb fees
Here's a break down of the types of fees you may be charged:
- Nightly price: The rate set by the host for staying at their property.
- Airbnb service fee: A charge for 24/7 customer service.
- Cleaning fee: Some hosts will charge this to cover the cost of cleaning the property after your stay.
- Extra guest fee: Some hosts will charge a fee for each additional guest beyond a specified number.
- Pet fee: Some hosts allow pets to stay at their properties for an additional fee that may be separate from cleaning fees.
- Security deposit: Hosts that manage their listings with a specific software may set a security deposit, which will be communicated during the booking process. You can learn more about Airbnb security deposits here.
- Valued Added Tax (VAT, JCT and GST): This is charged to guests in certain countries. You can learn more about VAT here.
- Local taxes: This is charged based on the location of the host’s listing. You can learn more about local taxes here.
The company's other recent policy changes include the late 2022 launch of its "display total pricing" feature, which allows users to see a full price breakdown of costs before booking.
The feature was introduced amid a raft of complaints about hidden service fees and tasks that customers were expected to do before checking out. Last June, the company was one of several that President Joe Biden recognized for eliminating junk fees and increasing pricing transparency for customers.
Do you need ideas about places to visit? Despite inflation, there are some areas where the dollar is strong. To get the details, check out Kiplinger's cheapest countries to travel to report. In addition, the 24 best travel sites to find deals and save you money may help you with your research.
Related Content
-
AI Goes To SchoolThe Kiplinger Letter Artificial intelligence is rapidly heading to K-12 classrooms nationwide. Expect tech companies to cash in on the fast-emerging trend.
-
Where to Invest in an Uncertain MarketIn an uncertain market, you can still pocket juicy payouts ranging from 4% to 14%, depending on risk.
-
How to Budget for College Expenses Beyond TuitionSome universities waive tuition for families with incomes below a certain threshold. But you'll still need a plan to cover other costs.
-
My First $1 Million: Events Industry CEO, 65, Northern New JerseyEver wonder how someone who's made a million dollars or more did it? Kiplinger's My First $1 Million series uncovers the answers.
-
Delta’s New Fare Changes Just Made Booking Flights and Earning Miles More ComplicatedHere’s what travelers need to know about Delta’s fare changes before booking their next flight.
-
United Airlines Raises the Bar with New Business Class SuitesDiscover how United's new Polaris Studio suites redefine luxury and comfort on long-haul flights.
-
Walmart Raising Prices Soon — Here’s Which Products Will Cost You More This SummerIf you heard about Walmart raising prices, here are the key details you need to know ahead of your next shopping trip.
-
I'm an Insurance Pro: How Not to Get Dumped by Your Insurance AgentYour insurance agent or broker might show you the door if you do any of these five things. Being a good customer is about more than paying your bill on time.
-
How Capital One Venture X's Travel Perks Make the Fee Worth ItTravel Cards Travel cards, like the Capital One Venture X come with a sizable annual fee. Here are four ways to offset it.
-
Hail Damage Insurance Claims: Is Filing Worth the Cost and Hassle?Before filing a hail damage insurance claim, understand the potential costs, risks and whether it’s worth the effort. Learn when to file and when to pay out of pocket.
