Getting more nervous about guests with no ID , photo etc

[Simon364]

Hi 

I have been doing AirBnb for quite a while now. It is my own home, with two spare rooms

My instant book is quite strict,  3 days notice, must have 2 reviews - that has been ok

For request to book things have been ok so far. Often it is people from other countries, so even if they dont have a review, I ask a few questions, and I can tell it is a big deal for them to come hear, I feel that the house is safe

But from time to time (and it only takes that one time!) I feel that the system is not really safe. 

So for a start, not seeing a photograph until the booking is complete - is not really appropriate. Today I booked someone and when I did see them, it is just a picture of their back , in the distance. I dont feel comfortable with this.

Also , I dont know where they are from, (I dont ask for govt ID, as we dont really have in UK)  - all they have verified email and phone number. Which is nothing.

This is the first time I have been uncomfortable with a booking

Even hotels ask for ID!

Does anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks

[Ana1136]

@Simon364 you can also ask for ID upon check in, just explain it in the description. Also you can ask him to further verify his profile and set up a profile picture. In the end if his response still makes you uncomfortable you can call Airbnb and have them cancel the reservation. 

[Rachel177]

@Simon364 government ID means a government recognised form of ID like a passport, drivers license or photo identity card. So there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn't have that requirement ticked for instant booking. And you can also ask for ID if you have it in your house rules.

And update your house rules to include that you only accept guest with ID completed and a clear profile picture.  I have this in my house rules & send it to remind guests who have cartoon characters/group shots/unclear profile pictures. I've not had a problem with guests then updating their profile picture to a clear one of their face. 

[Simon364]

Yes I am thinking about having this more explicit in the future - where is the best place to put this?

I would like to know where the persons address is - in a way, I would have thought this is a minimum stipulation for any host?

[Linda108]

While your hosting style has worked for you thus far, I agree with @Ana1136  in that you could require a guest to provide a proper profile picture and Gov ID.  I don't think it is a good idea to only trust that Air BNB system will vet a guest appropriately for our individual listings. 

[Simon364]

So I could put it into both  the house rules and the description?

By the way, I have asked this person for a proper profile pic, but no response so far

[Ana1136]

@Simon364 yes you should put it in both. If he doesn't answer call Airbnb and have them contact him, they always magically respond to them. 

[Simon364]

thanks everyone. As it turns out , this guest is fine!

But now i have added "Please note that I can only accept guest with a clear profile picture and either completed ID, or bring official ID with proof of address when you arrive."

in detailed description, and house rules

Thanks all