Well, no one knows what is going to happen in terms of lockdowns and restrictions, but it would be useful if Airbnb could also be a bit clearer on its policies.
At the moment, the COVID-19 EC policy clearly states:
"Reservations for stays and Airbnb Experiences made after 14 March 2020 will not be covered under our extenuating circumstances policy, except where the guest or host is currently sick with COVID-19. COVID-19-related circumstances not covered include: transport disruptions and cancellations; travel advisories and restrictions; health advisories and quarantines; changes to applicable law; and other government mandates such as evacuation orders, border closures, prohibitions on short-term rentals, and lockdown requirements. The host’s cancellation policy will apply as usual."
So, this means, regardless of any lockdowns, government restrictions etc. any guest who booked after 14th March will not be entitled to a full refund unless they are (and can prove they are) or the host is sick with COVID.
However, @Catherine-Powell contradicted this in her video announcement of 18th August (see: https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Airbnb-Updates/Party-policy-updates-Superhost-status-extensions-...) where she says that the guest will not be able to cancel due to COVID, UNLESS they are sick or you are unable to host due to restrictions in your area. She also mentioned something about Airbnb directly being able to cancel stays outside of the COVID-19 sickness circumstance.
So, which is it?? I did ask for clarification following this video announcement, as did other hosts, but what Catherine said both in the video and her responses contradicts what is written in the EC policy.
I find this worrying for a start and, of course we know that Airbnb can and will change its EC policy at whim, so who knows what we can expect... Our listings may be blocked again. Guests may be issued full refunds outside of the written policy and guests might end up being able to 'attest' to facts rather than provide any documentation (especially if they are willing to accept travel credit).
Your guess is as good as mine...