Booking error - wrong airbnb

[Natacha131]

I accidentally booked the wrong apartment in a complex. I realized my error and cancelled it within 5 minutes, however, it turned out that the owner had a "super strict cancellation policy" and I am only entitled to a 50% refund, meaning I was only refunded $250 out of $625. I requested a refund but the owner has refused my request and opted to keep the money. It's been a full week since I contacted Airbnb without receiving any response, so I wanted to know if Airbnb has a reasonable customer service policy and has opted to refund the guest in similar cases. 

[Emiel1]

@Natacha131 

"super strict" cancellation policy can only be used be hosts wich are granted by Airbnb to use it. They are mostly commercial parties with a professional management for their business. By the rules you are not entitled to more refund then the policy calculates.

In this case yoy made an error 'booking the wrong apartment in a complex"

I wondered:

- did you contact the host first (before cancel) and asked for a reservation change (assuming you wanted another appartment in the complex) ?

- did you contact Airbnb before you cancelled, informing them you made an mistake ?

The policy is clear about refund in case of cancellation, and you accepted it.

So if the host is unwilling to cooperate, i fear Airbnb can not do much for you...

Best regards,

Emiel