Introduction
At OH-Stay.com, we have compiled this resource to assist our hosts in understanding their responsibilities and to offer a general overview of the legal, regulatory, and practical considerations pertinent to hosting. Hosts are required to adhere to our Hosting Standards and to ensure full compliance with all laws and regulations applicable to their specific location and situation. Please note that this article is not comprehensive and does not constitute legal or tax advice. We advise hosts to conduct their own due diligence, as the information provided may not be updated in real time. Ultimate responsibility for verifying, interpreting, and complying with all information presented herein rests with the host.
Table of contents
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Health and Cleanliness
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Local Regulations
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National Taxes
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Regulations and Permissions
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Safety
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Good Manners
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Insurance
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Other Hosting Information
Health and Cleanliness
Information about OH-Stay.com’s cleaning protocols can be found in our Responsible Hosting Guide.
Key recommendations on cleaning
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Czech Ministry of Health: guidance and notices
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European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC): environmental cleaning & disinfection recommendations
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U.S. CDC: guidance on waiting before entering a space for cleaning and disinfection
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 qualified tax professional for specific advice.
In general, the money you earn as a Host on OH-Stay.com is considered taxable income and may be subject to different taxes like rental tax, income tax, or VAT. You can view your earnings in your OH-Stay.com earnings summary.
Tax forms for the Czech Republic are generally due by 1 April each tax year (commonly extended to 1 July when using a registered tax advisor). Check with the Czech Financial Administration to determine whether you need to declare your hosting income and whether you qualify for any tax reliefs or allowances.
Local SPA and recreation fee
You may be required to collect and pay a Local Spa and Recreation Fee to the relevant city department. Exemptions often apply to certain groups (e.g., persons with severe disabilities, those under 18 or over 70). Check with your local authority for rules and registration steps.
For Prague, see the City of Prague portal: Místní poplatek z pobytu (tourist/occupancy fee).
Local regulations
Some cities and regions in the Czech Republic have specific requirements. Always verify with your local authority.
Regulations and permissions
It’s important to make sure you’re allowed to host on your property. Restrictions can arise from contracts, laws, and community rules. Consult a lawyer or local authority for advice tailored to your situation. Use the guidance below as a starting point only.
Notification obligation to the foreign police department
Hosts in the Czech Republic must notify the foreign police of accommodated foreign nationals within 3 working days of arrival and keep a guest register. See the Police of the Czech Republic for instructions:
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Police of the Czech Republic: official site
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Foreign Police info: how to notify/register
Contractual agreements and permits
Leases, building regulations, and community rules may restrict subletting or hosting. Review your agreements and, if needed, seek consent from your landlord, community council, or building manager. Where all parties agree, it may be possible to add an addendum clarifying responsibilities and liabilities.
Mortgage restrictions
If your property has a mortgage (or other loan), confirm with your lender whether hosting/subletting is permitted.
Subsidized housing restrictions
Subsidized/social housing often prohibits subletting without permission. Check with your housing authority or association before hosting.
Housemates
If you share your home, consider a written housemate agreement covering hosting frequency, guest etiquette, and revenue sharing.
EU consumer protection law
When you offer accommodation as a service online, you may have information and consumer-rights obligations. See the European Commission’s overview: consumer protection in the EU.
Misuse
OH-Stay.com will take appropriate action when notified of potential misuse. We also provide guidance for authorities to report housing misuse.
Safety
We care about the safety of hosts and their guests. You can improve peace of mind by preparing emergency instructions and noting any hazards.
Emergency contact information
Provide a contact list including:
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Local emergency numbers
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Nearest hospital phone number
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Your contact number
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A backup contact (if guests cannot reach you)
Guests can also contact you via OH-Stay.com messages as a secure alternative.
Medical supplies
Keep a first aid kit, tell guests where it is, and restock it regularly.
Fire and gas safety
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If you have gas appliances, follow applicable gas safety regulations and install a functioning carbon monoxide detector.
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Provide and maintain a fire extinguisher.
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Ensure you have a clearly marked fire escape route and post a visible map.
Hazard prevention
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Inspect for trip/fall hazards and remove or clearly mark them
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Fix exposed wires
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Ensure stairs are safe and have railings
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Remove or lock away dangerous items
Child safety
Let guests know in your OH-Stay.com listing if the space has hazards or isn’t suitable for children/infants.
Climate control
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Ensure proper ventilation
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Provide safe-use instructions for heating/air conditioning
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Check thermostat functionality and show guests where it is
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Service appliances regularly
Good Manners
Help guests understand local customs and community expectations to ensure a great experience.
Building rules
If your building has common spaces or amenities, share the rules for those areas.
House rules
Add house rules in the “Additional notes” section of your OH-Stay.com listing so expectations are clear up front.
Neighbors
Consider informing neighbors that you host, and invite them to share any concerns.
Noise
Set quiet hours and consider policies such as no parties, no additional unregistered guests, and—if needed—no pets.
Parking
Communicate building/street parking rules (e.g., assigned spaces, street-cleaning windows, overnight limits).
Pets
Check your lease/building rules. If allowing pets, share local exercise areas, waste-disposal guidance, and a backup kennel contact in case of issues.
Privacy
Always respect guest privacy. Be transparent about any allowed security devices and comply with all local laws.
Smoking
If you prohibit smoking, post clear signage. If allowed, provide ashtrays in designated areas.
Insurance
Work with your insurance agent or carrier to determine the obligations, limits, and coverage appropriate for your situation. Basic protections (e.g., damage or liability cover) do not replace adequate homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Review your policy to confirm short-term rental activities are covered.
Liability and basic coverage
Review your homeowner’s or renter’s policy with your insurer to ensure adequate liability coverage and property protection for hosting.
Other Hosting Information
For additional help, visit our Hosting FAQs.
Important: Hosts are solely responsible for their conduct and compliance. OH-Stay.com does not control individual host behavior and disclaims liability. Failure to meet responsibilities may result in suspension or removal from OH-Stay.com. OH-Stay.com is not responsible for the reliability or accuracy of information on third-party sites linked here (including legislative and regulatory resources).
Have a Question for Us?
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