New Delhi, Sept. 30 -- An empty bedroom can look like an easy source of income. However, hosting paying guests through an Airbnb or similar business brings expenses, responsibilities and changes to family life. Before buying furniture or uploading photographs, ask yourself these questions.

Check your housing society's rules and discuss visitor access, parking and noise. If you rent, check whether your agreement permits short stays and obtain written approval from your landlord.

Clarify the complaint process before accepting bookings. A neighbour's objection need not automatically mean a ban.

Ask your municipality and state tourism department about licences, registration and fire safety. Check whether hosting affects property tax, elect...