Rule number one when staying somewhere as a houseguest: respect the preferences of the host.

The best way to show gratitude for somebody allowing you to stay in their home for any amount of time is to be mindful of the kind of living environment that they prefer to have, especially if they are hosting you at short notice. For many, having people stay at their house is a big disruption. Although on one level, this can’t be helped, it should not stop you from being respectful.

It is true that some people are not the most welcoming in their homes, and it can prove an unpleasant experience for the guest. However, there is a simple solution to that—just don’t stay with them, and certainly don’t try to push their boundaries for the sake of it. Not only does this have the potential to cause a lot of unnecessary drama, but it can also blacklist you from ever being invited over again.