@Katie,
Thank you, very much for all of the clarifications that you get and following up with us to share the information. I have concerns and questions regarding the clause that says hosts will not get a payout if a guest cancels due to the host violating the COVID-19 safety protocols.
"If you're a guest, you will not be eligible for a refund if your host cancels your reservation because you did not comply with these practices. Similarly, if you're a host, you will not be eligible for a payout if a guest cancels their stay because you did not comply with these practices."
- Does the host get paid for nights that the guest stayed prior to the cancellation of the reservation (originated by either guest or host)?
- What type of proof has to be provided to confirm the allegations?
- Are the claims still valid if guests or hosts state that the original breach occurred earlier during the reservation period, but the guest decided to/host allowed the guest to stay, and the accused (guest or host) repeatedly didn't follow the guideline?
I see that this clause can be abused by guests, hosts and Airbnb. Guests can book reservations for longer than they really want to stay, and then claim a safety violation to get a free or discounted stay. Conversely, hosts can accept reservations via Airbnb, but want to end the reservation early to fulfill an off-platform booking. Plus, Airbnb could not refund the guest for the nights they did stay, not pay out to the host, and pocket the money.
These questions and concerns, along with the fact that in section 16.2 of the new ToS that go into effect on Jan. 21, 2021, Airbnb claims that they can apply the rules at their sole discretion, and do what they want with the money, are the primary reasons why I've not yet signed up for the cleaning and safety protocols.