Collect entire security deposit up front

[David3789]

 I think AirBNB should adopt the standard protocol for rental property.  Security deposits should be fully charged up front at the time of reservation and then refunded within 7 days to the renter if no damage is reported.  Those of us who are renting our properties don't always have the time to run around town to collect quotes, replace supplies, receipts, etc. required for AirBNB to charge the renter.  The burden of proof should be on the part of the renter.  This would also make accepting the reservation of new AirBNB users or those with less than perfect reviews as renters more palatable to those of us who have been burned by disrespectful renters. I love VRBO's method of doing this.  The very few times I've had to withold funds from the the renter for damages, I've never had disputes.  My house keeper takes pictures of all damages when she does every turn. 

[Jennifer660]

I think that might be cost prohibitive for most people including me. I am respectful of places I stay and have never had a problem. Being asked to pay a deposit up front and actually being charged for it would make me look elsewhere, and be a red flag that the host might be trying a scam. Hotels do not charge this up front...

[Jennifer660]

PS we have a $200 security deposit and the only problem we have had with one reservation was smoking and partying, AirBnb said prove it with the smoking, not a reason to keep any money unless anything needed to be professionally cleaned.