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
• Health and Cleanliness
• Local Regulations
• National Taxes
• Regulations and Permissions
• Safety
• Good Manners
• Insurance
• 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 in Estonia
• Refer to information provided by the Estonian Government.
• For cleaning and disinfection standards, review recommendations from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

National Taxes

Taxation is a multifaceted area, and your specific tax obligations can vary significantly based on your individual circumstances. We strongly recommend that you research your responsibilities thoroughly or consult with a qualified tax professional for personalized advice. Generally, any money you earn as a Host on OH-Stay.com is considered taxable income. This income may be subject to various taxes, including but not limited to rental tax, income tax, or VAT.

Key Tax Information in Estonia
• Tax forms for Estonia are due by 31 March each year.
• Check with the Estonian Tax and Customs Board to determine if you need to declare hosting income, which can be found in your OH-Stay.com Earnings Summary.
• Determine eligibility for tax reliefs, allowances, or other credits.

DAC7 - EU Data Sharing
• DAC7 references the EU Council Directive 2021/514, requiring online platforms to collect and report taxpayer information for certain platform users who earn income.
• If your property is located in an EU Member State or you are resident in an EU Member State, DAC7 applies to you.
• “Resident” for DAC7 purposes refers to a country where the person has their primary address or has been issued a Tax Identification Number (TIN).

For more details, see our FAQ page on how OH-Stay.com shares tax data.

Regulations and Permissions

Before hosting, ensure your property is eligible. Restrictions may exist due to contracts, laws, or community regulations. Consult a legal professional or local authority for specific guidance.

Contractual Agreements and Permits
• Check leases, contracts, building regulations, and community rules for subletting or hosting restrictions.
• You may be able to add an addendum to your lease or contract to clarify responsibilities and liabilities.

Mortgage Restrictions
• Confirm with your lender that hosting or subletting does not violate your mortgage agreement.

Subsidized Housing Restrictions
• Subsidized housing typically prohibits subletting without permission. Contact your housing authority if applicable.

Housemates
• If you share your home, consider a written agreement with housemates regarding hosting frequency, guest etiquette, and revenue sharing.

EU Consumer Protection Law
• Online services must provide customers with specific information. Hosting on OH-Stay.com counts as a commercial service.

Misuse
• OH-Stay.com will take appropriate action if potential misuse is reported.

Safety

Hosts can improve guest safety with simple preparations.

Emergency Contact Information
• Local emergency numbers
• Nearest hospital
• Your contact number
• Backup contact number for emergencies

Guests should know the best way to contact you. OH-Stay.com messaging can also be used.

Medical Supplies
• Keep a first aid kit accessible and restock it regularly.

Fire Prevention
• Follow all gas safety regulations if applicable.
• Install a working carbon monoxide detector.
• Provide a fire extinguisher and maintain it regularly.

Exits
• Clearly mark fire escape routes.
• Post a map of escape routes for guests.

Hazard Prevention
• Inspect your home for hazards.
• Remove or clearly mark any hazards.
• Fix exposed wires.
• Ensure stairs are safe with railings.
• Secure or remove dangerous objects.

Child Safety
• Indicate in the Additional Notes section if your home is not suitable for children or infants.

Climate Control
• Ensure proper ventilation.
• Provide instructions for heating and air conditioning.
• Verify thermostat function and inform guests of its location.
• Service appliances regularly.

Good Manners

Responsible Hosts promote positive community interactions.

Building Rules
• Inform guests about rules for common areas and shared amenities.

House Rules
• Include your house rules in the Additional Notes section.

Neighbours
• Notify neighbors of hosting plans to prevent misunderstandings.

Noise
• Inform guests of noise expectations early.
• Reduce disturbances with measures such as:

• Quiet hours policy

• No pets

• Indicating unsuitability for children

• No parties or unregistered guests

Parking
• Share any parking restrictions or guidelines:

• Only park in assigned spaces

• Street cleaning schedules

• Restricted street parking times

Pets
• Check lease and building rules before allowing pets.
• Provide information about local exercise areas and waste disposal.
• Offer a backup plan, e.g., a nearby pet kennel.

Privacy
• Respect guest privacy. Follow OH-Stay.com rules for surveillance devices and local laws.

Smoking
• Post signs if smoking is prohibited.
• Provide ashtrays in designated areas if smoking is allowed.

Insurance

Coverage and Obligations
• Review your homeowner’s or renter’s policy to ensure liability and property protection.
• Confirm whether your insurance covers damages caused by guests.
• Hosts are solely responsible for their compliance and conduct.

Important: Hosts are solely responsible for their conduct and compliance. OH-Stay.com does not control individual host behaviour and is not liable for their actions. Non-compliance may result in suspension or removal. OH-Stay.com is not responsible for the accuracy of information on third-party sites linked in this resource.