Extra Services Fee for EV Charging

[Theodore74]

Hello all!  I host mid-term rentals (minimum 30 days occupancy).  I installed an EV charger and would like advice on how to collect an additional $7 per day from guests who plan to use it during their stay.  That’s $210 per month based on average use and the cost of electricity in Los Angeles.  Billing it monthly through Airbnb Resolution Center is awkward.  Is this the only solution?  

[Lorina14]

@Theodore74 

According to Airbnb Terms and Conditions it appears to be the only way to collect for a service such as this.

[Patricia2526 · Accepted solution]

Hi @Theodore74 

Unfortunately, the only way to request additional payments from guests is through the Resolution Center. Another option is to adjust your nightly rate instead perhaps by adding around $7 per night to cover the cost, especially if you expect that most guests will be charging their cars daily.

If most guests don’t drive EVs, you might slightly increase the base rate (say $3–$4) and accept the small difference as part of your operating cost.

[Theodore74]

That’s quite Ok.  I will continue not to promote the service since I’d prefer not to be on the hook for paying the additional utilities using the Resolution Center.

[Debra300]

@Theodore74,

I also rent mid-term and require a refundable extra services deposit for non-inclusive amenities/services.   I would manage providing an EV charging amenity in the similar manner.

1. Install a breaker that has the ability to remotely turn on/off and monitor energy consumption of the EV charger.
2. Post in the listing details, house and tag the photo with the per kwh rate that will be charged.
3. Require guests requesting to use the charger to pay an Extra Services fee deposit via the Resolution Center.  Take a photo of the starting meter reading and give a copy to the guest.  Send additional payment requests if the amount goes below a certain threshold.  After checkout, send the guest the final meter reading and refund any amount that the guest hasn't used via the Resolution Center.
   
   
   

[Billy375]

Resolution Center works, but it’s clunky for recurring stays.
For 30+ day bookings, most hosts handle this by putting EV charging terms in the listing + house rules + pre-booking message, then collecting via a separate rental addendum/invoice where local law allows.

I’d avoid a flat $7/day if possible. It's heavy, and light users subsidise each other. A per‑kWh model is cleaner and easier to defend if questioned. **
If you keep flat-rate, make sure it’s clearly disclosed and agreed before booking so there are no surprises.

**[Content removed in line with the Community Center Guidelines]