Verify listing with photo

[Tammy385]

I have been asked to verify my listing by taking a picture of shampoo in my home but, I don't supply shampoo. Airbnb has told me they are now requiring we as Hosts supply shampoo to guests. They said it was a global decision and that eventually all hosts will have to do this. They also told me if I don't supply the picture they can delete my listing. I explained it's a cost for me. They said that I need to raise my rates to charge the guest for the cost. My rates for my area are already low and if I raise them it will make it even harder to get bookings. Any one else have this?

[Helen350]

Crazy. As you can't increase your rates by a part of a dollar, you'd have to put them up by one whole dollar.. Which would be unfair to the guest, as no-one would use a whole dollar's worth of shampoo a day.. But if you don't charge, YOU lose out.

A couple of years ago Airbnb were telling all hosts to provide toiletries, linens, towels, TP, and it backfired, with mass protest from hosts who did not want to, or found the logistics difficult cos they managed remotely. Airbnb backed off, & rescinded then.

I DO provide shampoo & I buy whatever is cheapest when I shop, usually 500mls for £0.99. It can last a year, some use it, some don't. Not always the same brand. Will I have to update my listing every time I buy a new bottle of shampoo?

[Sarah977]

I have never heard of this. In fact, there are no amenity "requirements" , even soap and toilet paper- they are listed as essentials, but only strongly recommended to provide. I have never provided shampoo.

This sounds like BS. Tell them to direct you to where this is now written as a requirement. I'll bet they can't come up with it.

How was this request for a photo and the threat to delist made? Just some Airbnb CS rep? If so, I imagine some guest complained they weren't provided with shampoo and a clueless rep acted on his own.

@Tammy385

[Sarah977]

I do know that some hosts have been asked to do this verification stuff. But I looked at your amenities list and shampoo is clearly crossed off. They cannot force you to show something you don't offer in your amenity list and the threat to delist you is outrageous.

Contact Airbnb on their Twitter account about this. @Tammy385