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.

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.

Tax forms for Finland are usually due in early May each year. You can find the exact date on the pre-completed tax form you receive from the Tax Administration. Check with the Tax Administration to determine if you need to declare the amount you earn from hosting, which can be found in your OH-Stay.com Earnings Summary. It is also advisable to check whether you are eligible for other credits such as tax reliefs or allowances.

Regulations and Permissions

Before hosting, verify your eligibility to rent out your property. Restrictions may come from contractual agreements, legal statutes, or community regulations. For comprehensive guidance, consult a legal professional or your local authority.

Leases, contracts, building regulations, and community rules may include restrictions against subletting or hosting. Review any agreements you have signed, and consider whether an addendum could clarify responsibilities and liabilities for all parties. If your property has a mortgage or any other type of loan, confirm with your lender that hosting is allowed. Similarly, subsidized housing usually prohibits subletting without permission; contact your housing authority if applicable.

If you share your home with housemates, consider formal agreements outlining hosting frequency, guest etiquette, and potential revenue sharing. When offering your space commercially, EU consumer protection law requires that you provide customers with certain information. Hosting through OH-Stay.com is considered a commercial service, and you may need to ensure compliance with relevant EU regulations.

Misuse

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

Safety

Host and guest safety is a priority. You can improve peace of mind by preparing emergency instructions and noting potential hazards. Include a list of local emergency numbers, the nearest hospital, your contact information, and a backup contact. Ensure that guests know how to reach you in an emergency and that communication is possible via OH-Stay.com messaging.

Maintain a first aid kit and make sure guests know its location. If you have gas appliances, follow safety regulations and ensure a working carbon monoxide detector is installed. Provide a fire extinguisher and check it regularly. Clearly mark all fire escape routes and post a map for easy reference.

To prevent hazards, inspect your home for trip or fall risks, exposed wires, unsafe stairs, or dangerous objects. Lock away or remove any items that may pose a threat. Use the Additional Notes section to inform guests if your home is unsuitable for children or infants.

Ensure proper ventilation and provide instructions for safely using heating or air conditioning. Regularly service appliances and verify that thermostats function correctly.

Good Manners

Being a responsible Host includes guiding guests on local rules and customs. If your building has shared spaces, communicate the rules clearly and provide written instructions for recycling or waste disposal. Include house rules in the Additional Notes section of your listing. Notify neighbours when hosting to minimize potential conflicts.

Manage noise expectations and mitigate disturbances through quiet hours, restrictions on pets, noting suitability for children, and prohibiting unregistered guests or parties. Clearly communicate parking guidelines, including assigned spaces, street cleaning schedules, and time-restricted areas.

If you allow pets, check building rules first, provide information on local exercise areas and waste disposal, and prepare a backup plan such as a nearby kennel. Respect guest privacy at all times and follow rules regarding surveillance devices, alongside local privacy laws. If smoking is prohibited, post signs; if allowed, provide designated ashtrays.

Insurance

Work with your insurance provider to confirm coverage, limits, and obligations specific to your hosting arrangement. Review your policy to ensure adequate liability and property protection. Not all insurance policies cover damage or loss caused by guests.

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.