How to Tell People About Houseguest Rules

Guests can be adults or children, so adjust your rules accordingly.

We all welcome guests into our home at some point, whether it's extended family or friends that live far away and come to visit. Usually, our guests are respectful of our home and our rules, but there are some cases when you may need to explain some houseguest rules to your visitors. Using tact and politeness will help make your explanation of guest rules go smoothly and effectively.

Instructions

1. Decide on what you want your houseguest rules to be. Have different rules based on the age of your guests. If the houseguest is your child's eight-year-old schoolmate, they will have different responsibilities than your 30-year-old cousin.

2. Inform your guests of the houseguest rules before they arrive or upon the day of their arrival. Do not wait for them to leave the bed unmade all week and then chastise them; if they did not know you expected them to make their bed, they will not understand why you are irritated with their behavior.

3. Continue to monitor your guest's behavior throughout their stay. Most people will respect your rules and abide by them, but if they begin forgetting different rules or blatantly disrespecting your home or family members, go over the rules with them again and explain that if they cannot follow the rules, they will not be invited back to your home.

Tips & Warnings

• Explain your rules in a friendly way so that your guests will be more receptive to them.

References

• Consumer Traveler: The "Rules" for Perfect Houseguests