Depending on how ‘disability’ is defined, people with disabilities make up anywhere between 12.6 and 18.7 percent of the US population, according to a Rutgers University study. This study, which adds that potential guests who described themselves as having impairments were more likely to be rejected by Airbnb hosts, confirms the numerous claims of discrimination Airbnb has experienced over the years against guests with disabilities – and even hosts with disabilities.
What the Law Says About Airbnb and Guests with Disabilities?
It is generally acknowledged that vacation rental websites like Airbnb and Vrbo are subject to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, with the vacation rental home being regarded as a public accommodation. As a result, the ADA’s accessibility and enforcement standards are applicable.
The lone exemption is a building with little more than five rental rooms that is also really occupied by the establishment’s owner. As a result, hosts who provide private rooms in their own residence are immune from the ADA’s enforcement requirements.
What is Airbnb’s Accessibility Policy for Guests with Disabilities?
- The Nondiscrimination Policy of Airbnb prohibits hosts from:
- Decline a guest based on actual or perceived disability
- Impose special criteria or restrictions on guests with disabilities
- Ask guests about their impairment and its severity
- Decide if their property meets the needs of a guest with a disability for that of the prospective guest
- Restrict or ban the use of mobility devices
- Charge guests with impairments additional rates, which may include service animal fees
- Indicate in your listing or in a demeaning statement that you prefer for or against a guest because they have a disability
Airbnb hosts can, however:
- If a potential guest brings it up first, talk about whether their listing meets their needs
- Give guests factual details about your property’s accessibility features—or lack thereof—so they can decide if your Airbnb is suitable for their needs
How to Prepare for Guests with Disabilities
Hosting someone with a disability typically entails making the same adjustments you would for any other guest, such as letting them keep their bags before checking in. Give all guests clear and accurate information, and communicate to make sure it satisfies their needs to guarantee your facility is accessible to all guests. Get ready to:
- Answer all their inquiries regarding your property
- Acceptable requests should be honored, such as shifting furniture to make room for a wheelchair or setting dishes on a low counter so the guest can reach them
- Be cordial
- Accommodate a service animal
Don’t be hesitant to let your guest know if you can’t provide certain accommodations safely or logically
Main Points
- Make sure the accessibility features of your listing are appropriately described. Include pictures of any accessibility features, such ramps, grab bars, and elevators, and give a thorough description of the listing’s accessibility features.
- Make sure the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines are followed when creating your listing. Make sure your listing complies with the ADA’s minimum accessibility standards, which include door width, grab bars in the bathroom, and accessible shower stalls.
- Be open and honest about any restrictions. In your listing description, be transparent if there are any accessibility restrictions that you cannot modify. For instance, let guests know if your building lacks an elevator so they may make an informed choice.
- Prior to their arrival, communicate with your guest. When they arrive, get in touch with them to find out if there are any special needs they may have. This will enable you to tailor your listing appropriately and make sure the guest has a relaxing and enjoyable stay
- If more amenities are required, provide them. Consider including extra features like shower chairs, bed rails, or visual alerts that may be useful for guests with impairments.
- Be adaptable and understanding. Be willing to change your listing to make it more user-friendly and comfier for your guests. This could entail moving the furniture around, adding more lighting, or altering the thermostat.
In conclusion, being proactive, open, and flexible are crucial when welcoming guests with disabilities. By following these instructions, you can make sure that your Airbnb guests have a pleasurable and memorable stay.
