Short-Term Rentals & Airbnb

Airbnb and short-term rentals have changed the way people travel—and the way buildings operate. From guests rolling in with three oversized suitcases for a two-night stay, to confused tourists trying to figure out where the garbage chute is, short-term rentals can turn even the calmest building into a revolving door of surprises.

And as property managers, we’re often the ones holding the keys (literally and figuratively) to making sure things don’t spiral.

The Double-Edged Sword of Short-Term Rentals

On paper, short-term rentals look great: owners earn extra income, guests get “home-like” accommodations, and the city gets an influx of tourists. But behind the elevator doors, things aren’t always so picture-perfect.

• Security concerns: Constant new faces mean tenants may feel uneasy. Is that person with the key fob a resident—or just here for three nights and a selfie in the lobby?

• Noise complaints: Parties don’t always respect “quiet hours.” And yes, it always seems to happen on a Tuesday night.

• Wear and tear: Frequent check-ins and check-outs lead to heavy use of elevators, laundry, hallways, and sometimes even plumbing (don’t ask).

• Confusion with building rules: Tenants usually know the recycling schedule. Short-term guests? Not so much.

What Managers Can Do

Property managers aren’t usually the ones deciding whether a building allows Airbnb-style rentals—but we are the ones keeping order when they do exist. Here’s what helps:

• Clear communication: Post visible signs about garbage, recycling, quiet hours, and emergency contacts. Guests shouldn’t need a scavenger hunt to know where the bins are.

• Check-in coordination: If owners are renting out units, ensure they handle key handovers and explain building rules. Nothing is worse than a lost tourist knocking on every door in the hallway.

• Regular inspections: Increased turnover means more cleaning and maintenance checks. Stay ahead before “little messes” turn into “big complaints.”

• Tenant reassurance: Let long-term residents know their safety and comfort are still the priority. A quick update or notice goes a long way in keeping trust.

Tenants, Take Note

If you’re a tenant thinking about renting your place on Airbnb, check your lease and building bylaws first. Many agreements specifically prohibit short-term rentals, and getting caught can be costly. Even if it’s technically allowed, remember that you’re responsible for your guests’ behavior.

For more on protecting yourself as a renter and avoiding costly mistakes, check out my blog on rental and tenant tips.

Final Word

Short-term rentals aren’t going away anytime soon. They can be a blessing or a headache, depending on how they’re managed. For property managers, the secret is structure and communication. For tenants and owners, the secret is responsibility.

Because at the end of the day, Airbnb might promise “belong anywhere”—but it’s our job to make sure people belong without chaos.