19 Mar Building Relationships with Your Neighbors as an Airbnb Host: 7 Tips

Complaints from local residents are one of the biggest reasons Airbnb businesses fail. That’s why it’s so important for hosts to build good relationships with their neighbors.

Nobody talks to their neighbors anymore these days, or so everyone says. But talking to your neighbors isn’t something you should forget about. Many people rent out their homes online without alienating everyone around them. If neighbors ruin your business, it may be because you neglected your relationship. Here are seven simple ways you can prevent fallouts with your neighbors.

1. Be Friendly

Before you talk to your neighbors about Airbnb you should get to know them. Try to build a natural and genuine friendship with your neighbors. Introduce yourself, say hello in the hallway and send holiday cards. Getting to know your neighbors will help you avoid potential run-ins down the line. True relationships can’t be built if you only speak when it’s to your advantage.

2.  Communicate Clearly

Communication is the first step to building relationships with your neighbors. You should be open and honest if you are listing your space on Airbnb. You should also check that it’s legal. Neighbors are well within their rights to complain or report you for illegal hosting. Listen to any concerns they may have and have remedies prepared to address them.

• Explain your House Rules, and how they are communicated to guests before arrival.
• Reassure neighbors that you check the references of all guests.
• Explain the type and number of guests that you approve.
• Give them your mobile number.
• Encourage them to call you if there’s an emergency, or if they have any concerns about guests.

3.  Manage Noise

Noise control is a huge problem in any apartment dwelling. Noise can even be an issue in houses. Consider the type of people that share your building. Families with young children or older neighbors are particularly sensitive to noise. Some cities and locations are more tolerant of noise and parties so use your common sense. You may decide to completely ban parties or large groups from your Airbnb to limit noise.

You can use a NoiseAware device to track noise in your home and alert guests when they get too loud. Give neighbors your contact details to alert you if noise becomes bothersome.

4. Be Security Conscious

Security can be a concern to neighbors in shared buildings. Neighbors may raise safety concerns if access codes get shared with guests. Parcel theft can also become a concern in unmonitored areas. Change lock codes and always ensure keys get returned and accounted for. Keyless door locks may be suitable for your property.

5.  Watch Parking

If parking is limited, you should be conscious of other residents. Expect a negative response if your guests are taking your neighbor’s usual parking space. Even if you have a few guest parking slots it’s important to remember other residents may want to use them. Be clear about available parking. If your Airbnb inconveniences other residents you may need to adjust your listing. In these situations, you may need to state there is no on-site parking available. But, if you have a neighbor who does not use their parking space you may be able to negotiate a deal. They may agree to sublet their parking space for guest use. This way, everyone benefits.

6. Be Considerate of Shared Spaces

Many apartment complexes offer a variety of shared spaces. Be very clear about the rules and regulations for common areas and amenities.

If your guests access the workout equipment or pool after hours, you may get complaints. If these amenities get crowded, you may have to limit Airbnb guest use to those areas. It’s annoying for full-time residents if amenities get overcrowded by short term guests.

7. Avoid Annoyances

Little annoyances can build up when you have hundreds of guests per year. Be considerate of small recurring issues that can build up and annoy neighbors. Nuisance could include all types of issues, some of which you might never have thought of. Things like guests ringing or knocking on the wrong apartment on a regular basis. Taxis and Ubers blocking parking or entrances are a problem for busy Airbnbs. Late-night or early guest arrival and departure can be noisy and disruptive. Be proactive to try and limit nuisance for neighbors. Communicate parking, arrival and departure instructions with guests.

Being considerate with your neighbors helps your Airbnb. Not only will your business benefit from building these relationships, your circle of friends will increase as well.

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