Hello,
I'd like to understand a few things about security deposits with airbnb. When I created my listings in 2020, there was a place to set a security deposit - when I edit my listing, I see no field where this can be altered.
After reading the post from 2021 titled "Airbnb No Longer Shows Amount Of Security Deposit" - I discovered it is in fact displayed in the Health and Safety information IF the viewer clicks 'show more'. It's the absolute last thing in the list! Very strange....BUT it does say that the guest must acknowledge the fee.
So my questions are these:
1. Where is the field located now?
2. Does a guest ever see the security deposit when they are making a booking?
Beyond that, I'd like to understand whether this fee is serving any purpose at all. If they don't know about, and they're not charged in advance for it (hold on credit card or however it's done), and we have to jump through hoops to claim any damage before getting paid....what is even meant by 'security deposit'? I know one Host commented on the aforementioned thread about a deposit serving the purpose of at least encouraging the guest to leave the property in good shape and follow house rules.
I'd also like to hear from hosts that have had experiences with needing to withhold the so called security deposit - does it work any differently than reporting damages? Thanks much!