Security Deposits!!! False sense of security for Hosts!!!

T’Jon0
Level 2
Reno, NV

Security Deposits!!! False sense of security for Hosts!!!

I have had numerous occasions where guests have lied about the number of guests to avoid paying extra guest fees or pet fees, etc. Also, guests breaking house rules, having parties, leaving a mess causing me to incur excessive cleaning fees. 

You would think that you could make a claim with Airbnb against the guest’s security deposit. After all thats what a security deposit is for right? Wrong!!!! The security deposit is worthless. IF the guest lies about the number of guests or leaves your house a complete disaster, there’s nothing you can do and Airbnb will absolutely NOT help you to collect the additional fees even though its in their terms and conditions for guests to pay them. The security deposit will be returned to the guest in full by Airbnb with no consequences whatsoever which only encourages  the guest to do it again to the next Host. The security deposit is a false sense of security for Hosts and a complete joke!!! 

Please share if you have had the same experience...or, if you know a way to get Airbnb to have their Hosts back.

1 Reply 1
Emiel1
Level 10
Leeuwarden, The Netherlands

@T’Jon0 

A security deposit set by the host ("host required") is not returned to the guest, as it is never charged in the first place.:

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/140/how-does-airbnb-handle-security-deposits

 

To collect on a security deposit follow these procedure:

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/352/what-happens-if-a-host-wants-to-collect-on-their-security-de...

 

BTW regarding number of guests not correct: change the reservation as soon as possible ("change option") so you can collect already before or during the stay. If not possible (f.e. more guests are coming than the max. mentioned in the listing): use Resolution centre if you still can/want to host them.

 

Best regards,

Emiel