Guest adds a secret additional person

[Cee2]

Hello Community,

I had a gust stay at my place, a small two bedroom. It was two couples who flew in from Italy. Communication was great, I always ask a lot of questions to ensure my place makes sense for them. 

I greet them and help them into the apartment, 4 people total. The listing states no more than 4 people are allowed in the apartment. 

Upon check out there where 5 people staying in my place. 

What can I do? Can I keep the deposit? Or can I only leave a bad review?

[Cynthia-and-Chris1]

@Cee2 Do you have proof the 5th person stayed? Regardless, Airbnb will likely not allow you to get the deposit. Definitely note it politely in the review (if you’re positive the 5th guest stayed).

[Cee2]

Thank you for your response. My housekeeper arrived early on the day of check out and said there were 5 people there and one was sleeping on the couch. I think that would be enough proof do you agree?

[Regina38]

You should be able to charge for the extra guest and most definitely note they snuck an extra guest in putting them over the permitted occupancy rate. You can request the money through the resolution center. Good luck and happy hosting.

[Cee2]

Thank you for your response. My housekeeper arrived early on the day of check out and said there were 5 people there and one was sleeping on the couch. 

I will request the money from them. Thank you!

[Helen3]

Presuming you have proof the fifth person stayed, I would

1. Send them a request through the resolutions centre for the extra costs for the fifth person as you outline in your listing

2. Leave a review and mention that they brought a fifth person who had neither booked nor paid into your accomodation

You can't keep the deposit as Airbnb don't hold it. You have to request the money, the guest has to agree to the payment and if they don't Airbnb arbitrates.

[Cee2]

Thank you for your response. My housekeeper arrived early on the day of check out and said there were 5 people there and one was sleeping on the couch. I assume that would be enough proof?