Failed to get compensation for damaged claim

[Masud4]

My guest damaged the kitchen bar solid surface. I informed the guest through WhatsApp about the damaged right after they checked out and send a money request after 3 days by confirming the price with contractor.

Later guest declined the request as well as Airbnb, Airbnb says my mistake was to contact through outside Airbnb. Not sure if anyone else experienced the same problem? Now I have to live with my damaged kitchen. 

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Masud4 Yes I am afraid this is a timely remainder to all hosts (and guests) that communication should ONLY take place through the platform.

[Barbara2576]

It´s strange that my reply could not be sent due to an error´!

[Masud4]

Thank you @Mike-And-Jane0 , It was at the beginning of my hosting experience and I was not well aware of it. Now I know. Thank you.

[Barbara2576]

I made a claim for extensive damage done to my property. Just because the guests did not reply shouldn't mean that airbnb can just close my case!

[Laura2592]

@Masud4  and @Barbara2576  this is sadly the reality of hosting. 

There is no real security deposit. Guests can deny claims and its up to ABB to arbitrate. Most times they just dismiss the claim altogether. 

1. Always communicate on the platform
2. Take pictures before and after every guest
3. Get your item repaired immediately and get an invoice on letterhead (or at least get a bid for the repair on letterhead.) Submit it with your claim. 

There is this new Airbnb Cover thing that is supposed to offer more protection but I don't know if it actually makes any difference as I have not tried to submit a claim. 

[Masud4]

@Laura2592 @Thank you Laura.