Set Up Accessibility Features on Airbnb
Offering an accessible accommodation not only broadens your audience but also conveys trust and a commitment to inclusion. Airbnb allows you to showcase accessibility features in your listings, but to have them published correctly, you need to meet certain requirements.
What Accessibility Features Are
These are physical characteristics or services of your accommodation that make it easier for people with reduced mobility or specific needs to stay. Examples include a step-free entrance, grab bars in the bathroom, or a pool hoist.
These features appear in the “Accessibility Features” section of the Airbnb listing, not in the general gallery or other portals.
Airbnb Requirements
Each feature must be accompanied by a photo that clearly shows it.
A photo can only depict one feature (example: an image of the shower grab bar, not the entire bathroom with multiple adaptations).
You can upload multiple photos of the same feature.
Airbnb manually reviews each image and its description. The process can take up to 8 weeks (or longer if there are delays).
👉 Pay attention to details: until Airbnb validates the feature, it will not be displayed in the listing.
How to Set Them Up in Channel PRO (VRMS)
Upload the feature photo in the accommodation's photo gallery.
Add the corresponding description in the accessibility field.
Save the changes.
Examples of photo and description matching on Airbnb:
Ceiling hoist: a device fixed to the ceiling that helps transfer someone in and out of a wheelchair.
Step-free house access: level and barrier-free entrance.
Wide entrance: door at least 0.81 m wide.
Clear path to entrance: minimum width of 0.81 m, flat and with a gentle slope.
Fixed grab bars in shower or bathroom: support installed to facilitate movement.
Pool with hoist: device that allows safe entry and exit.
Shower chair: fixed, standalone, or with wheels.
Step-free common areas: level access to bedrooms, bathrooms, or other areas.
Well-lit entrance path: sufficient lighting to avoid obstacles.
Best Practices
Use clear and specific photos: avoid general images where the feature is not distinguishable.
Ensure minimum measurements: doors and access points must meet the 0.81 m requirement to be considered accessible.
Anticipate questions: describe the features in detail so the guest knows exactly what to expect.
Be realistic: do not add features that are not available; this can lead to poor reviews.
Quick Checklist
Does each feature have its dedicated photo?
Is the description written in the VRMS accessibility field?
Have I checked that the feature meets the required minimum measurements?
Am I aware that Airbnb validation can take up to 8 weeks?
Conclusion
Setting up accessibility features in your Airbnb listings is an investment in trust and openness to more guests. Take a few minutes to photograph and describe each feature and ensure it meets the requirements for validation.
Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do accessibility features appear?
In the specific accessibility section within the listing, not in the general photo gallery.
Can I upload multiple photos of the same feature?
Yes, as long as they clearly show the service.
What happens if Airbnb rejects my photo?
It will not be published until you change or adjust it according to the requirements.
How long does it take for a feature to be validated?
Airbnb can take up to 8 weeks, although sometimes the process is longer.
What happens if I don't upload a photo of a feature?
The information will not sync with Airbnb and will not appear in the listing.