Big changes to Airbnb globally, from today

Airbnb now requires that guests see the total cost of their stay – including all fees before taxes – directly in search results, making pricing clear and upfront. All mandatory fees (cleaning, pet, extra-guests, resort, etc.) must be entered via Airbnb’s fee fields, or rolled into the nightly rate.

Also announced today, but starting 1 October, Airbnb will auto-update all booking cancellation policies from “strict” to a “firm” policy, unless hosts explicitly opt out. There will also be no collection of security deposits, guest emails or waivers via platform messaging – these must be handled through approved PMS systems or Airbnb-integrated tools only.

Airbnb’s own AI now actively scans messages for policy violations like “book direct,” external links, or off-platform payment invites.

ASAP stands by transparency – it’s a cornerstone of the ASAP Code of Conduct for our members. Anything that leaves guests facing unexpected add-ons mid-booking damages trust, and ultimately harms the reputation of the whole short stay sector.

As with all elements of policy and regulation, ASAP will continue to support measures that promote fairness, professionalism and guest confidence. A level playing field benefits everyone – especially those ethical, professional operators who put service and integrity first.