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Rules
Host

Responsible hosting in Austria

You can read this article in German or English.

We’ve put together this article to help Hosts on Airbnb become familiar with hosting responsibilities, and to provide a general overview of different laws, regulations, and best practices that may affect Hosts. You’re required to follow our guidelines, like our Hosting Standards, and to make sure that you follow the laws and other rules that apply to your specific circumstances and locale.

We recommend that you do your own research as this article isn’t comprehensive, and doesn’t constitute legal or tax advice. Also, as we don’t update this article in real time, please check each source and make sure that the information provided hasn’t recently changed.

Table of contents

Health and cleanliness

Global information about Airbnb’s 5-step enhanced cleaning process can be found in general info about hosting places to stay.

Please ensure that you follow the specific official COVID-19 hygiene and safety orders for your accommodation as they might define additional requirements. We have put together some helpful links to find rules that apply in Austria.

It is important to consult the specific official regulation to learn which cleaning and hygiene procedures are requested in your individual case. For example, a minimum distance between hosts and guests is likely to be required during check-in.

Further recommendations on cleaning

    General resources

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    National taxes

    Tax is a complex topic. Your own tax obligations can vary based on your particular circumstances, so we recommend that you research your obligations or consult a tax professional to get more specific information.

    In general, the money you earn as a Host on Airbnb is considered taxable income that may be subject to different taxes like income tax, city tax, tourism tax, or VAT.

    Tax forms for Austria are due by 30 April following each tax year. Check with the Federal Ministry of Finance to find out how you need to declare the amount you earn from hosting, which you can find in your host earnings summary. It’s also a good idea to find out if you’re eligible for other credits like tax reliefs and allowances.

    Data reporting

    Please note that from January 2021, Airbnb will report specific data to the Austrian tax authorities on the previous year. The data relates to the Hosts’ identity and their hosting activities on the platform during the previous calendar year. This applies to both Homes Hosts and Experiences Hosts.

    The report covers earnings for the previous year. The first report will be delivered in January 2021 for the year 2020. If you received Host earnings during the calendar year, Airbnb will provide the Austrian Finance Ministry the following information (which we obtain from the details in your Airbnb account):

    • Your first and last name
    • Your address
    • Your Host ID
    • Address and URL of your listing(s)
    • Bank account details (IBAN)
    • Amounts paid out in the reportable year, including cleaning fees
    • Number of nights/experiences booked known by the platform (including dates of booking(s) and the number of persons staying overnight or in attendance)

    DAC7 - EU Data Sharing

    DAC7 references the EU Council Directive 2021/514, which requires online companies such as Airbnb to collect and report taxpayer information on certain platform users who earn income on the Airbnb platform. If you have a listing for a property located within one of the 27 EU Member States or you are resident in an EU Member State, DAC7 impacts you.

    A person is “resident” for DAC7 purposes in a country in which the person has their primary address and, in addition, any other country in which the person has been issued with a tax identification number (TIN).

    Check out our FAQ page for more information about how Airbnb shares tax data.

    Free tax guide

    We want to make it easy for you to understand your tax responsibilities as a host on Airbnb, so we’ve partnered with an independent third-party accounting firm to provide a free tax guide (available in German and English) that covers general tax information in Austria.

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    Local regulations

    Select a location below to read city, county, or region-specific info. If your area isn't listed, you can read general info about local regulations.

    Regulations and permissions

    It’s important to make sure you’re allowed to host on your property. Some examples of restrictions include contracts, Austrian rental laws, and community rules. Check with a lawyer or local authority to learn more about regulations, restrictions, and obligations specific to your circumstances.

    You can use the general info in this article as a starting point around hosting regulations and permissions.

    Business licensing in Austria

    In general, anyone who regularly pursues a self-employed activity in Austria with the intention of making a profit–regardless of whether as an individual or with a company–requires a trade licence for the activity. There are a few exceptions to this rule, which may also include hosting activities. Whether you have to register as a Host depends on the type of business you have and scope of your rental activity. The Austrian Trade Regulations distinguish between free and regulated trades. The application for a trade license is free of charge in Austria, but you may incur costs for social security and the allocation of costs to the Chamber of Commerce. An exemption from these costs is possible if you fall under the micro-entrepreneur regulation.

    Helpful information and links to business registration in Austria can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry. Detailed information on self-employment and applying for a trade license can also be found on the Austrian Business Service Portal.

    Guest registration

    As a Host in Austria, you’re required to maintain a guest register regardless of how often you host, how much you’ve earned hosting, or whether hosting is your main source of income. The requirement applies to both Hosts of single rooms and Hosts who offer entire homes.

    There are two ways you can comply:

    1. Maintain your own electronic guest register
    2. Maintain a guest register signed off by the reporting authority

    If you decide to keep your own guest register, you will need to comply with all applicable data protection laws, including the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Here are some ways you can respect your guests’ data from third-party access:

    • Only process data you need for Austrian reporting obligations
    • Delete guest data after 3 years

    You can find out more about your obligations under the applicable data protection laws from data protection authorities, specialist attorneys, hosting associations, and more.

    Contractual agreements and permits

    Sometimes leases, contracts, building regulations, and community rules have restrictions against subletting or hosting. Review any contracts you’ve signed or contact your landlord, community council, or other authority.

    You might be able to add an addendum to your lease or contract that can provide clarity about concerns, responsibilities, and liabilities for all parties.

    Mortgage restrictions

    If your property has a mortgage (or any form of loan), check with the lender to make sure that there aren’t restrictions against subletting or hosting.

    Subsidized housing restrictions

    Subsidized housing usually has rules that prohibit subletting without permission. Check with your housing authority or housing association if you live in a subsidized housing community and are interested in becoming a Host.

    Housemates

    If you share your home with others, consider making a formal agreement with your housemates in order to outline expectations. Housemate agreements can include how often you plan to host, guest etiquette, whether you'll share revenue, and more.

    EU consumer protection law

    According to EU consumer protection law, when you commercially offer goods or services online, you’re required to provide your customers with specific information. When you host through Airbnb, it’s considered a service. We have information and tools to help you decide whether you should identify as a hospitality expert and understand your responsibility to protect consumers in the EU.

    Misuse

    We’ll take appropriate action if anyone notifies us of potential misuse. We have guidelines to help local authorities report housing misuse.

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    Safety

    We care about the safety of Hosts and their guests. You can improve your guests’ peace of mind by providing a few simple preparations like emergency instructions and noting any potential hazards.

    Emergency contact information

    Include a contact list with the following phone numbers:

    • Local emergency numbers
    • The number for the nearest hospital
    • Your contact number
    • A number for a backup contact (in case guests can’t reach you)

    It’s also a good idea to make sure guests know the best way to contact you in case of an emergency. You can also communicate with guests using messages on Airbnb as a safe alternative.

    Medical supplies

    Keep a first aid kit and tell your guests where it is. Check it regularly so you can restock supplies if they run out.

    Fire prevention

    If you have gas appliances, follow any applicable gas safety regulations and make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector. Provide a fire extinguisher and remember to maintain it regularly.

    Exits

    Ensure you have a clearly marked fire escape route. Post a map of the route so it’s easy for guests to see.

    Hazard prevention

    Here are some ways you can help prevent potential hazards:

    • Inspect your home to identify any areas where guests might trip or fall
    • Remove the hazards you identify or mark them clearly
    • Fix any exposed wires
    • Make sure your stairs are safe and have railings
    • Remove or lock up any objects that may be dangerous to your guests

    Child safety

    Some guests travel with young family members and need to understand if your home is right for them. You can use the Additional notes section of Listing details in your Airbnb account to indicate potential hazards or indicate that your home isn’t suitable for children and infants.

    Climate control

    Working appliances, like furnaces and air conditioners, can greatly affect your guests’ comfort during their stay. There are lots of ways you can make sure your guests stay comfortable:

    • Make sure your home is properly ventilated
    • Provide instructions on how to safely use the heater and air conditioning
    • Check that the thermostat is working correctly and make sure that guests know where to find it
    • Service the appliances regularly

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    Courtesy

    Part of being a responsible Host is helping your guests understand best practices for interacting with your community. When you communicate local rules and customs with your guests, you’re helping to create a great experience for everyone.

    Building rules

    If your building has common spaces or shared amenities, let guests know the rules for those places.

    House rules

    You can include your house rules on the Additional notes section of Listing details in your Airbnb account. Guests usually appreciate it when you share your expectations with them up front.

    Neighbors

    It’s usually a good idea to let your neighbors know if you’re planning to host. This gives them the chance to let you know if they have any concerns or considerations.

    Noise

    Guests book through Airbnb for lots of reasons, including vacations and celebrations. Let your guests know how noise impacts neighbors early on for a smoother experience.

    If you’re concerned about disturbances to your community, there are different ways you can help limit excessive noise:

    • Implement a quiet hours policy
    • Don’t allow pets
    • Indicate that your listing isn’t suitable for children or infants
    • Prohibit parties and additional unregistered guests

    Parking

    Communicate any parking rules for your building and neighborhood to your guests. Examples of possible parking rules:

    • Only park in an assigned space
    • Don’t park on the west side of the street on Tuesdays and Thursdays due to street cleaning
    • Street parking is only available from 7pm–7am

    Pets

    First, check your lease or building rules to make sure there isn’t a restriction on pets. If you allow guests to bring pets, they’ll appreciate knowing good places to exercise their pet or where they should dispose of waste. Share a backup plan, like the number of a nearby pet kennel, in case a guest's pet upsets the neighbors.

    Privacy

    Always respect your guests' privacy. Our rules on surveillance devices clearly state what we expect from our Hosts, but some locations have additional laws and regulations that you’ll need to be aware of.

    Smoking

    If you don't allow smoking, we suggest posting signs to remind guests. If you do allow smoking, be sure to provide ashtrays in designated areas.

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    Insurance

    Work with your insurance agent or carrier to determine what kind of obligations, limits, and coverage are required for your specific circumstances.

    Host damage protection and Host liability insurance

    AirCover for Hosts includes Host damage protection and Host liability insurance, which provide you with basic coverage for listed damages and liabilities. However, these don’t take the place of homeowner's insurance, renter's insurance, or adequate liability coverage. You might need to meet other insurance requirements as well.

    We strongly encourage all Hosts to review and understand the terms of their insurance policy coverage. Not all insurance plans will cover damage or loss of property caused by a guest who books your accommodation.

    Learn more about AirCover for Hosts.

    Liability and basic coverage

    Review your homeowner's or renter's policy with your insurance agent or carrier to make sure your listing has adequate liability coverage and property protection.

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    Other hosting information

    Check out our hosting FAQs to learn more about hosting on Airbnb.

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    Please note that Airbnb has no control over the conduct of hosts and disclaims all liability. Failure of hosts to satisfy their responsibilities may result in suspension of activity or removal from the Airbnb website. Airbnb isn’t responsible for the reliability or correctness of the information contained in any links to third party sites (including any links to legislation and regulations).

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