Pets and children,

[Dianne411]

Dear hosts, 

I have a small unit designed for two adults. I sometimes accommodate people who request to bring a pet or small child. In my experience, these guests give less than 5 star reviews, usually due to the pet or child. I am considering never allowing children or pets, is this an experience others hosts have had?

[David13864]

I'm new to hosting, and I don't have a good answer, but think it's a good question.  Will see what other more experienced hosts say.

[C197]

@Dianne411  , have a similar issue. I have now decided to make the apartment for single travellers only, cut all the nonsense that goes with letting couples or friends, mothers stay. Once gave 50% to a mother and still left 4 stars!

I was also thinking of letting pets stay, but won't do it.

If the pets destroy your property, they will quickly think up something to blame you and give you a bad review. Airbnb takes the side of the  customer.

[Shelley159 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Dianne411 

Both of your listings show a capacity of 2 guests. On Airbnb this means you have to accept 2 adults or 1 adult and a child older than 2. Airbnb doesn't have a "no children" option and bans "familial discrimination" (although, if the place has features that make it unsuitable, you can state that. In Paternoster, perhaps an open path to the beach?).

Children under 2 are usually not counted as guests and may accompany the parents for free.

You can disallow pets (just don't tick pets allowed) , but in the rare circumstance that someone brings a service animal, you have to allow it.

As you can see, the Airbnb policies are stricter than the local Lekkeslaap policies, where the host has more control over the acceptance of children.

So in your case on Airbnb:

1) Don't tick pets allowed 

2) You don't have to accept 2 adults who want to bring a child older than 2 years, as your listings aren't advertised for 3 people.

https://www.airbnb.co.za/help/article/433

https://www.airbnb.co.za/help/article/2867

[Oksana127]

Hi @Dianne411 ! 👋

Yes, many hosts with small units do the same. Extra guests, pets, or children can affect comfort and cleanliness, which sometimes leads to lower reviews.

It’s perfectly fine to host adults only or no pets — just make it clear in your listing. This often helps maintain high ratings and a smooth experience for both you and your guests. 👍