Airbnb does not have Covid-19 safety rules in place to be observed by hosts

I rented an apartment through AirBnB in March 2020 for a period of 3 months (contract ending 31 May 2020). I had to leave on the 24 March, owing to the then pending lock-down period commencing 26 March 2020. When we were allowed inter-provincial travel, I traveled back to Gauteng (07 May 2020) and resumed residence at the booked place.

The problem is that the host is not observing the COVID-19 safety precautions. The cleaners are not wearing masks and lord knows if they sanitise. There was also a plumber who came in not wearing a mask. I have WhatsApp evidence where I was asking her to ensure that anybody who comes to my room observes proper precautions. All to no avail. One of the days, there was even a party with four cars at the residence.

On 27 May 2020, there was yet another male fixing the door and he too was not wearing a mask. When I insisted that he must wear a mask, a fight ensued and only when I threatened to call the cops did the gentleman go and wear a mask.

I then packed my bags and went to look for alternative accommodation. I figured, if they are this resistance to the process when I am around, they are unlikely to consider my interests when I am not around.

In light of the state of affairs, AirBnB ought to ensure that their hosts follow the proper protocol. But they do not seem to be. It is business as usual. I am in the process of reporting the matter to the Department of Health helpline also.