Airbnb suspends local ‘party houses’
Home-sharing company Airbnb is cracking down on so-called “party houses,” including 40 listings across Columbus that have violated policies related to large gatherings.
The locations were not specified “out of respect for the privacy of the hosts and homeowners,” but their accounts have been suspended or removed from the Airbnb website, according to the California-based company.
A quick search of the company’s website showed several homes available for groups of 10 or more, including one near the Ohio State University campus at $236 per night.
The action relates to the company’s policy of banning parties at Airbnb listings globally until further notice. Similar steps were announced Thursday involving accounts in Cleveland and Cincinnati, where there were 25 and 23 properties that were suspended, respectively, said Charlie Urbancic, company spokesman.
The company said the “vast majority” of hosts in Ohio have abided by terms of use policies related to unauthorized parties, including quiet hours and cleanliness.
“Our actions today address the small minority of hosts who have previously received warnings about hosting responsibly or have otherwise violated our policies,” according to a com
pany statement.
Last year, Airbnb announced a global ban on party houses, establishing a neighborhood support line where neighbors can call with concerns. Issues raised by the tip line led directly to some of the suspensions.
With coronavirus cases rising dramatically and Franklin County becoming the first county in the state to be elevated to the highest level of outbreak, the timing is key.
“With COVID-19 cases on the rise across the state, it’s critical that we all do our part to reduce the number of parties and large gatherings,” said Alex Dagg, a public policy director for Airbnb. “We hope that sharing out these steps today can raise further awareness of our 24/7 neighbor hotline.”
Airbnb is also restricting some homes from being booked by those younger than 25 unless they have a history of positive reviews, or booking a stay for a family gathering.
The company has blocked almost 200 high-risk reservations in Ohio, flagged by an automated booking system since last year.
The public can call Airbnb’s Neighborhood Support team at (855) 6357754 to report an issue.
dnarciso@gannett.com