Declining a booking that does not meet your listed criteria

[Coleen26]

I am a new host to Airbnb.  I specifically list my place is for 2 people and no children.  I had an inquiry want to book 3 people of which two were small children.  I have to decline this as it is specifically outside my boundaries.  I sent her a reply saying no.  If I hit the decline button though, will it adversely affect my rating through no fault of my own?

[Emiel1]

@Coleen26 

If it is an inquiry (options: pre-approve or decline) you only need to answer the question. No obligation to decline. If it is a booking request (options: accept or decline), you must make a choice. But you can also ask the guest to withdrawe the request (within the 24 hours time limit), instead of decline.

BTW If you decline requests too often then it will affect your rating.

Best regards,

Emiel