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Rules
Host

Responsible hosting in Singapore

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.

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, which may be subject to income tax. Property tax may also be applicable if you are a property owner.

Income tax returns for individuals and companies are due 15 April and 30 November, respectively, each year. Check with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore to find out if 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.

Reporting obligations

All Hosts must make sure to comply with the regulations about their reporting obligations, including tax submission.

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 that covers general tax information in Singapore.

General regulations and permissions

It’s important to make sure you’re allowed to host on your property. Some examples of restrictions include contracts, 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 to learn about hosting regulations and permissions.

Hosting regulations

For private residential properties (i.e.: not HDB flats), the use of private residential properties is governed by the Planning Act and its various subsidiary legislation. The Planning Act prohibits rental of private residential properties for less than three consecutive months to the same person.

In May 2019, the URA announced that the minimum stay duration of three months will continue to apply for any accommodation in private residential properties. Please note that failing to follow the local laws and regulations on hosting short-term accommodations in Singapore could result in serious penalties, including heavy fines and/or prosecution under the Planning Act. The URA takes a serious view against those who engage in short-term rental activities, and carries out active enforcement against illegal short-term rentals.

For public housing, please refer to the Public Housing Restrictions section below.

If you operate a hotel or hostel, please note that your property is subject to the Hotels Act and you are required to have the requisite license issued by the Hotels Licensing Board, including a Certificate of Registration of the premises as a hotel, and a Hotel-Keeper's license. For more information please consult the Hotels Licensing Board.

If you operate a serviced apartment, please ensure you have obtained planning permission or approval for the use of your premises as a serviced apartment, from the URA.

To obtain planning permission from the URA, a Qualified Person (such as a registered architect, surveyor and/or professional engineer) must submit a development application with the owner’s consent for the application to be made. A change of use application must be submitted for the conversion of an existing development into a serviced apartment. There are specific development control parameters and locational criteria taken into account by the URA in considering a development application for a serviced apartment.

Serviced apartments must be developed and/or managed under one ownership—no strata subdivision of serviced apartments. Serviced apartments must be rented out for a minimum period of 7 days. For more information, please consult this URA circular.

On November 30. 2021, Airbnb rolled out additional new tools to help you comply with local regulations in Singapore and to help you host with confidence. From 10 January, 2022 onwards, Hosts of all listings in Singapore on the Airbnb platform will be required to confirm the licensing status of their properties:

  • If you host a listing in a hotel or hostel, please add the licence number issued by the Hotels Licensing Board to your listing.
  • If you host a listing in a serviced apartment, please confirm that you are authorized by the URA.
  • If you host a listing in a private residential property, please change your calendar settings to host for at least 92 consecutive nights at a time.
  • If you host a listing in public housing, please ensure you have the necessary approvals from the Housing Development Board, and change your calendar settings to host for more than 6 months at a time.

Listings that do not conform with the above requirements will be removed, until the licensing confirmation process is complete.

Please see below for FAQs.

What do I need to do?

You need to confirm the licensing status of any listing you host in Singapore. Please go to your hosting page and click on the “Regulations” tab to proceed with the flow.

  • If you host a listing in a hotel or hostel, please add the license number issued by the Hotels Licensing Board to your listing.
  • If you host a listing in a serviced apartment, please confirm that you are an authorized serviced apartment by the URA.
  • If you host a listing in a private residential property, please change your calendar settings to host for at least 92 consecutive nights at a time.
  • If you host a listing in public housing, please ensure you have the necessary approvals from the Housing Development Board, and change your calendar settings to host for more than 6 months at a time.

Once you take one of the above steps that are appropriate for your property type, you’re all set.

I host in a private residential property, am I allowed to host short-term guests?

The Planning Act prohibits rental of private residential properties for less than three consecutive months to the same person. You will need to change your calendar settings to host for at least 92 consecutive nights at a time in order to continue hosting in Singapore.

I host in a public housing property, what do I do?

Public housing in Singapore is regulated by the Housing Development Board. Hosts of public housing property are subject to strict requirements (see above for more details), and must obtain HDB’s approval in writing before renting out their HDB.

I host a shared or private room, does this apply to me?

The law is the same for an entire place, a private room or a shared room. Please take one of the steps laid out above to continue hosting in Singapore based on your property type— hotels or hostels, serviced apartments, and private or public residences.

Is Airbnb now legal in Singapore?

Airbnb as a platform remains legal in Singapore. Depending on the property type — hotels or hostels, serviced apartments, and private or public residences — various local laws and regulations apply to individual properties.

To help you ensure compliance with local laws and regulations, Airbnb created an additional field on the listing page where hotels or hostels must add the hotel license number. Serviced apartments must confirm that they have the authorization from the Urban Redevelopment Authority. Hosts of private residential property must ensure that their listings reflect the minimum rental period of 3 consecutive months (at least 92 consecutive nights) applicable to their place of stay. Hosts of public housing property are subject to strict requirements (see above for more details), and should obtain HDB’s approval in writing before renting out their HDB.

My listing was deactivated, what do I need to do to reactivate it?

To reactivate your listing, please confirm the licensing status of your property on your Listing Details page:

  • If you host a listing in a hotel or hostel, please add the license number issued by the Hotels Licensing Board to your listing.
  • If you host a listing in a serviced apartment, please confirm that you are an authorized serviced apartment by the URA.
  • If you host a listing in a private residential property, please change your calendar settings to host for at least 92 consecutive nights at a time.
  • If you host a listing in public housing, please ensure you have the necessary approvals from the Housing Development Board, and change your settings to host for more than 6 months at a time.

Once you take one of the above steps that are appropriate for your property type, and update your listing page, you just need to move your listing back to Listed on the Listing Details page.

After taking the above steps, your listing will be reactivated, unless there are other factors justifying suspension according to our Terms of Service.

I host a listing in a private residential property in Singapore. Why do I need to set the minimum nights for my listing(s) to at least 92 consecutive nights?

Hosts of private residential property must ensure that their listing(s) reflect the minimum rental period of 3 consecutive months (at least 92 consecutive nights) applicable to their place of stay in order to continue hosting.

How do I set the minimum nights for my listing(s) to at least 92 consecutive nights?

You may adjust the minimum nights for your listing through the Settings page for your listing.

What do I need to know to prepare my listing(s) for a long-term stay?

Check out this link for more information on long-term hosting.

What if I fill out my hotel license number incorrectly?

Please go to your hosting page and click on the “Regulations” tab and edit the license number.

What will happen to my listing on January 10, 2022?

On January 10, 2022, all listings that do not conform with the relevant requirements (see above) will be deactivated. Listings that have maximum nights set for at least 92 nights will be automatically moved to a minimum nights of at least 92 nights, and will be able to continue to accept reservations.

I have existing reservations that fall after 10 January 2022, what will happen to those?

Existing reservations will not be cancelled by Airbnb*.

*Airbnb reserves the right to take necessary measures, including but not limited to cancellation of pending or confirmed bookings for reasons supported by our Terms of Service.

I am a serviced apartment, hostel or hotel with current authority or license (as applicable). What should I do in the future if my license or authority expires or is revoked?

You are responsible for keeping your information accurate and updated at all times. Failure to do so may result in your listing being deactivated permanently or you may face penalties. If your license or authority is expired or revoked in the future, please delist your listing, or set your minimum stay to at least 92 consecutive nights, as applicable.

Contractual agreements and permits

Sometimes leases, contracts, building regulations, condominium rules, Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) by-laws and community rules have restrictions against subletting or hosting. Review any contracts you’ve signed or contact your landlord, community council, MCST management corporation 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 are no restrictions against subletting or hosting.

Public housing restrictions

Public housing in Singapore (i.e. HDB flats) are governed by the Housing and Development Act and its various subsidiary legislation. The HDB has promulgated subletting regulations on the renting out of entire HDB flats and bedrooms. Importantly, you must obtain the HDB's approval in writing before you can rent out your HDB flat or bedroom. The regulations also impose a minimum rental period of six months, as well as various other restrictions, including who you may rent to.

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.

Misuse

We’ll take appropriate action if anyone notifies us of potential misuse. If local authorities are involved, we also have guidelines to work with local authorities with regards to data requests.

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

Occupancy limits

Establish safe occupancy limits. The HDB and URA have established occupancy caps for renting out HDB flats and private residential properties.

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 safety 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.

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.

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.

Other hosting information

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

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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