Guest doesn't want to stay and is asking for refund.

Sola0
Level 2
Iceland

Guest doesn't want to stay and is asking for refund.

I had a guest make a 5 night reservation a few months ago and they arrived last night. Today I got a message from them stating that they have decided to go and stay somewhere else because they think the beds are not comfortable, the fan is loud and furniture outdated. I have never had a complaint over any of these things before and have nothing but good reviews.

They are asking for a refund for the other 4 nights that they decided not to stay.

What do I do? most likely I could have had someone else book those nights.

thank you for any help!!

1 Reply 1

@Sola0: Unfortunately you cannot please everyone. Even 5-star hotels receive the occassional "bad" guest. You have selected a strict cancellation policy so your guest will not receive any automatic refund. That leaves the ball square in your lap. The guest is probably going to leave a bad review if they honestly feel that your house was not up to their standards. However, you can also respond by stating that you understand the the house may not have been exactly what they were looking for and were happy to provide them with a refund for unused days. That will let future potential guest know that you are fair and honest. Of course, it is entirely up to you. If you'd rather not provide a refund then you have that option too and just as many hosts as say to give a refund would probably say not to give one too!

 

With all of that said, take the criticism constructively. Perhaps there are some things about the house that could be improved even though no one else has mentioned them yet. Is the fan loud? Are the beds in good shape? Are there things you can do to keep guests that are more picky happy? I'm not saying that you are doing anything wrong, just just saying to use this as an opportunity to take a step back and make sure that your house is truly the best it can be.