What to Know about the Airbnb ESA Policy – Host Tools

If you have’t already, you’re sure to encounter a guest inquiring about bringing their emotional support animal (ESA). This blog post will break down what exactly the Airbnb ESA policy is and what that means for your short-term rental business.

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!

What is an emotional support animal?

Emotional support animals are different from service animals. ESA animals are not recognized as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Unlike service animals, an esa does perform certain support tasks. Instead, they provide emotional support and comfort. At time of publishing there is no official central registration system for these animals and hosts are not allowed to ask guests to see documentation for these animals.

What is the Airbnb ESA policy?

As the animal is not a sercice animal, a host typically may contninue to charge standard pet fees for an ESA animal. Typically, they may be allowed to charge additional cleaning fees or reject reservations when the property does not allow pets. However, Airbnb encourages hosts to get in touch with their support team if they feel the need to discuss this issue further or if they feel there is a gray area. You do want to check with your local government to determine what the specific rules and regulations for handing emotional support animals are for your area.

What types of animals are emotional support animals?

Typically, dogs and cats are the most common types of emotional support animals. However, there are instances of rabbits, birds, turtles.

What is the difference between an enmotional support and service animal?

Emotional support animals and service animals are not the same, and cannot be treated as such. Servive animals complete tasks like guiding someone who is visually impaired, detect seizures, or assist with walking. On the other hand, emotional support animals provide comfort through companionship.

Can I charge pet fees for an emotional support animal?

Since ESAs are not considered service animals, hosts are generally allowed to charge the same pet fees, deposits, or additional cleaning fees that they would charge for any other animal. Of course, you will want to confirm this with your local government and with the Airbnb support team.

How to handle requests for ESA

As a host you’re likely going to encounter a request for an emotional support animal. Here are a few tips for handling this increasingly common situation:

• Make your general pet policy clear in your house rules.
• Be sure you’re aware of local laws and requirements regarding these animals outside of the Airbnb ESA policy.
• Always approach any conversations with guests regarding these animals with kindness, dignity, and respect.
• Don’t hesitate to reach out to Airbnb for support if you have questions.

Final thoughts on Airbnb ESA policy

As you can see, there is a distinct different between emotional support animals and service animals. Hosts should accomodate guests when possible, but know that the requirments between emotional support animals and service animals are different. Ask for help from Airbnb support when needed and you’ll be just fine handling these requests.

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!