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Checklist · Sources checked Nov 4, 2026

Short-term rental safety checklist.

Short answer. Smoke alarms inside and outside every sleeping area and on every level, CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas, a multipurpose extinguisher guests can reach, a stocked first aid kit, and monitoring devices that follow Airbnb’s rules. Your city or permit may require more.

Each item cites the official source it comes from. This is a planning checklist, not legal or fire-code advice; check your local short-term rental permit, which can require more.

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  1. Smoke alarms in every sleeping area and on every level

    Guests sleep in a home they do not know. A working, interconnected alarm buys them time.

    • Put alarms inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area, and on every level, on the ceiling or high on the wall.
    • Interconnect them so that when one sounds, they all sound.
    • Test monthly during a turnover and replace each alarm every 10 years.

  2. Carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas

    Carbon monoxide has no smell. Airbnb asks hosts to say in the listing whether a CO alarm is present.

    • Install battery-operated or battery-backup CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas.
    • Interconnected alarms are best; check the batteries regularly.
    • List the alarms in the safety devices section of your listing.

  3. A multipurpose fire extinguisher guests can reach

    A small kitchen fire is the kind guests can stop before it spreads, if the extinguisher is easy to find.

    • Multipurpose extinguishers labeled “A-B-C” cover ordinary materials, flammable liquids and electrical fires.
    • Choose the largest unit a guest can safely and comfortably operate, and keep nothing blocking it.
    • Print the PASS steps in your house manual: pull, aim low, squeeze, sweep.

  4. A stocked first aid kit

    Small cuts and burns are common in an unfamiliar kitchen. A visible kit saves a late-night call.

    • The American Red Cross lists what a family-of-four kit should hold, from adhesive bandages and gauze to gloves and a thermometer.
    • Check expiration dates and replace used items during your monthly inspection.

  5. Monitoring devices that stay within Airbnb’s rules

    The wrong device in the wrong place can break platform rules and guest trust.

    • Indoor security cameras are not allowed, even when turned off. Exterior cameras are allowed if disclosed and kept away from private areas such as an outdoor shower.
    • Noise decibel monitors measure sound levels without recording. They are allowed indoors, except in bedrooms, bathrooms and sleeping areas, and their presence must be disclosed.