An Airbnb safety checklist is a list of essential checks and items hosts must provide to ensure a secure stay. A complete safety checklist includes physical security (locks, lighting, detectors), emergency preparedness (first-aid, fire extinguishers, emergency contacts/exits), and digital safety (secure Wi-Fi).It covers everything from fire prevention and medical readiness to security and legal compliance.
A proper Airbnb safety checklist is important because it protects both property and people from hazards and threats. If the guest feels safe and comfortable the moment they arrive, they may not say it, but it will impact the review. It can be a locked door or a hazard-free bathroom.
Having a checklist and maintaining safety based on the list means you won’t miss anything. It reduces complaints, injuries, refunds, insurance claims, and account issues. One missed detail can cost you years of reputation.
So we don’t want that to happen to you. After reviewing common safety gaps that most of our hosts encountered, and from our Airbnb VAs experience, we have built a complete and practical safety checklist for you. We will also share a free checklist PDF if you are too busy to create one yourself.
Download Airbnb Safety Checklist PDF
Pre-Listing Airbnb Safety Checklist
A pre-listing checklist is a quick safety check done before your listing goes live. Fixing safety issues before guests book or arrive can prevent unintentional accidents, negative reviews, and costly issues after your listing goes live. here check the points you should include in your pre-listing Airbnb safety checkup.
Install Required Safety Devices
These are non-negotiable. Test every device yourself. Don’t assume installers did іt right.
- Smoke detectors іn every bedroom and hallway
- Carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas
- Fire extinguisher (fully charged, visible, easy tо reach)
- Emergency lighting for stairways and exits
- Flashlight available during power outages
- Smart locks automation and rug grippers handles
Emergency Information Setup
Guests panic when they don’t know what to do. Post these info where guests can see it. Not buried in a welcome book.
- Emergency phone numbers (local police, fire, ambulance) 911/999/112
- Property address written clearly inside the unit
- Evacuation instructions and exit map (multiple languages)
- Host or local contact number that actually answers
Fire Safety Checklist for Airbnb Hosts
Ensure at least one fire extinguisher is available and easily accessible on your property. Ideally, you should have one on each floor, especially in areas prone to fires, such as kitchens. Regularly check that they are fully charged and not expired.
Kitchen Fire Prevention
Most Airbnb fires start here. If you provide gas appliances, explain how to shut them off. Kitchen essential checklist includes:
- No overloaded power strips
- Clean the stove, oven, and range hood regularly
- Fire blanket or extinguisher near the kitchen
- Clear rules about unattended cooking
- No damaged cookware or loose handles
- Alarms & fire extinguisher
- Do not place towels, pot holders, or plastic near burners.
Electrical Safety
Hidden electrical issues are dangerous. If something sparks, hums, or overheats, replace it. Always ensure:
- No exposed wiring
- No loose outlets or switches
- Check cords & outlets
- Exit lighting
- Surge protectors for electronics
- Regular inspection of heaters and AC units
Airbnb Security Safety Checklist
Your Airbnb security is paramount, and you may need to install surveillance cameras, noise-detection devices, or smart locks. But whatever you do for security purposes, stay transparent about it and let the guest know about the devices you have installed. These should not interfere with their privacy. However, for property security, make sure you include these on your checklist.
Entry and Lock Safety
The first impression starts at the door. When access is simple, secure, and reset for every stay, guests relax immediately. Always change codes after each checkout.
- Smart lock or well-maintained keyless entry system
- Unique access codes for each guest
- Deadbolts on all main entry doors
- Functional window locks
- Unique motion-sensor lights
- digital check-in & Backup Keys
Outdoor and Property Security
A good security system prevents problems before they start. Clear visibility, smart lighting, and honest disclosures keep guests safe while respecting their privacy.
- Clear Pathways & safety gear
- Motion lights near entrances
- Clearly marked property boundaries
- No hidden trip hazards outside
- Cameras are only allowed in outdoor areas (clearly disclosed)
- Never place cameras inside, ever.
- Alarm systems & video doorbells
Guest Health & Hygiene Safety Checklist
Safety does not mean the exterior protection, like installing devices, you should be careful about your guests’ health, which is connected with hygiene. Guests experience health and cleanliness as one.
Cleanliness and Sanitization
This is where many hosts cut corners and pay for it later. A clean space lowers illness risk and complaints instantly.
- Soap, paper towels/dryers, and hand sanitizer
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, elevator buttons)
- Clean floors, disinfect bathrooms, change linens, and dust surfaces.
- Proper trash disposal system (covered bins)
- No mold, pests, or strong odors
First Aid and Medical Readiness
Guests shouldn’t ask for help when something goes wrong. Everything should be prepared from the beginning. Remember, accidents can happen anytime, be ready.
- Stocked first aid kit (bandages, antiseptics, gloves, pain relievers)
- Clear instructions for nearby hospitals or clinics, along with emergency contacts
- Allergy-aware cleaning products
- No expired medications or supplies
To ensure a complete, step-by-step system, hosts should also follow our detailed Airbnb Cleaning Checklist to ensure every turnover meets the same hygiene standards.
Bedroom & Bathroom Safety Checklist
Small issues matter for guest experience. Guests use these bedroom & bathroom spaces most, and smooth safety here helps prevent accidents and maintain comfort.
Bedroom Safety
Make sure the guest’s comfort is maintained without risk. If something wobbles, fix it.
- Stable bed frames and furniture
- No sharp edges near beds
- Secure mirrors and wall art
- Blackout curtains installed safely
- Keep nightlights or a lamp
- Install window guards
- Store/refill Medication storage
Bathroom Safety
Bathroom safety is essential. Small, unnoticed issues can lead to slips or injuries. Simple prevention keeps guests safe and confident.
- Non-slip mats in showers and tubs
- Clean the surface of toiletries
- Proper drainage (no standing water)
- Working exhaust fans
- Keep the heater thermostat below 120°F
- Water temperature set to prevent burns
- Install secure grab bars
- Ensure bathorm electric ware is hidden and safe.
Outdoor & Amenity Safety (If Applicable)
Any space guests can access must be safe, visible, and well-maintained. As you know, outdoor areas add value but also create responsibilities. So, if you offer Airbnb amenities, you own the risk.
Pool & Hot Tub Safety
Water features raise liability, it need clear rules and regular checks. Proper barriers, non-slip surfaces, and routine maintenance prevent serious accidents. If you can’t maintain it properly, don’t offer it.
- Clear safety rules are posted
- Keep supervisor water & drainage areas (if possible)
- Self check-in and Self-closing gates were required
- Non-slip surfaces and temperature 104°F (40°C) max
- Regular chemical balance checks and disinfectant
- Keep away from electrical things more than 20 feet
Balcony, Stairs & Outdoor Areas
Outdoor accidents often lead to legal issues. So these common areas should feel solid and secure. Strong railings, adequate lighting, and safe walkways reduce fall risk and guest anxiety.
- Secure railings use nets for pets
- Proper lighting on stairs
- No loose tiles or boards
- Weather-resistant surfaces
- Keep a smart light to handle night emergency
- Make a guideline for an outdoor party (flames & barbecues)
- Pet-friendly amenities
Airbnb Legal & Compliance Safety Checklist
The main purpose оf this checklist іs tо confirm that your listing meets local laws and Airbnb rules. Non-compliance can lead to fines, removal from the listing, or legal action. No matter how well your property is maintained.
- Follow local STR laws and get permits
- Stick to zoning and occupancy limits
- Register and pay lodging taxes
- Confirm mortgage, lease, or HOA allows STR
- Maintain STR insurance
- Disclose cameras and smart devices
- Protect guest data
- Keep safety aligned with fire codes
- Review rules regularly
Airbnb also provides official safety guidance for hosts. You can find Airbnb’s host safety guidelines article here: Important safety guidelines for hosts (Airbnb official resource).
Airbnb Safety Checklist for Guest Communication
Safety doesn’t work if guests don’t understand it. Clear communication is what turns safety tools into real protection.
Guests need to know how to enter the property, what to do in an emergency, and how to use things safely. If this information isn’t clear before check-in, small mistakes can turn into serious problems. That’s on the host.
A guest communication safety checklist keeps everything simple and consistent. It reduces confusion, prevents misuse of appliances, and avoids panic during emergencies. It also protects you. Clear rules and written instructions reduce disputes, fraud risks, and unsafe behavior.
All safety communication should stay inside Airbnb messages. This keeps records clear and builds trust on both sides.
- Emergency contacts posted
- Visible exit and evacuation info
- Smoke/CO detector locations
- A fire extinguisher and first aid kit instructions
- Lockbox/digital key instructions
- Wi-Fi and security info shared
- House rules emphasised
- Cleaning and hygiene rules
- Safety tips in the welcome message
- Continue Airbnb messaging
- Check guest IDs
- Red flags: suspicious requests, incomplete profiles
- Answer safety questions quickly.
- Available torch and batteries
- Lock doors and windows.
Printable Airbnb Safety Checklist
Safety works best when it’s simple and visible. Here’s a practical summary of the key checks every Airbnb host should follow this Airbnb host checklist:
Category | Checklist Items |
Pre-Listing Safety | Smoke & CO detectors installed. Fire extinguisher Emergency lighting is present. Emergency numbers Evacuation map Property address visible. |
Fire Safety | The kitchen is clean, appliances are safe. No unattended cooking. Electrical outlets/cords are in good condition. Fire extinguisher nearby. |
Security Safety | Doors locked, unique guest codes. Windows secure. Motion lights outside. Clear boundaries. Cameras were only allowed. |
Guest Health & Hygiene | Surfaces disinfected. Fresh linens. Pest-free. First aid kit stocked. Medical contacts posted. |
Bedroom Safety | Stable furniture. Wall fixtures are secure. Safe window treatments. |
bathroom essentials Safety | Non-slip mats. Proper drainage. Safe water temperature. |
Outdoor & Amenities List | Pools/hot tubs: gates, rules, non-slip surfaces, chemical checks. Balconies/stairs: secure railings, stable steps, good lighting. |
Legal & Compliance | Follow local codes. Proper insurance. Occupancy rules. Disclose safety devices. |
Guest Communication | Clear house rules. Easy emergency instructions. Quick question responses. |
Note: We also offer free printable Airbnb safety checklist templates. Print them and share with co-hosts or cleaners to keep your property consistently safe and ensure guest satisfaction.
How Often Should You Review Your Airbnb Safety Checklist?
You should review your Airbnb safety checklist before every check-in, during seasonal safety checks, and after any guest issues or comments. Regular reviews keep guests safe. Safety needs constant work. It works best when checked often:
- Before every check-in: Check smoke detectors, digital locks, high-touch surfaces, and first aid kits every time you check in.
- Seasonal safety checks: Check your HVAC, heaters, AC, outdoor lighting, stairs, railings, pools, hot tubs, roof, gutters, and drainage every season.
- After guest feedback оr incidents: Fix hazards, fix оr replace safety equipment, and make sure that the house rules and emergency instructions are up tо date after guests give feedback оr something goes wrong.
Final Words
Safety іs the quiet foundation оf every great stay. When your guests feel secure, comfortable, and cared for, everything else, like reviews, repeat bookings, and peace оf mind, falls into place.
Ignoring safety can lead to serious issues like fire hazards, injuries, or emergency situations that put guests and your listing at risk. A clear Airbnb safety checklist helps prevent these problems before they happen.
It keeps your property prepared, your guests protected, and your hosting smooth. When guests feel safe, they enjoy their stay, leave positive 5-star reviews, and are more likely to book again.
