Photo shoot scam?

[Steven65]

I have an enquiry to use my flat for a photo shoot and product promotion. Initially, i have no objections and pre-approve. Guest then follows up with request to view property before booking to ensure it is suitable. Not entirely unreasonable, but I now think its a scam, trying to get address and access information with no intention of booking. The guest photo (or lack of) would help to determine if they are genuine, but of course i cant see it. I withdraw pre-approval and decline the request. Anyone seen similar or am i being paranoid? 

[Helen3]

Hello @Steven65 

If someone wanted to use my listing for commercial purposes, then I would be looking to charge them a commercial rate and would want them to show me they had appropriate liability insurance and have a separate contract to indicate how it was being used, how many people were using the property etc.

I certainly wouldn't be letting them stay at Airbnb rates.

I would also confirm that I wouldn't be able to provide access prior to booking, but may alllow them to come and visit prior to the shoot, once they had booked, if it was convenient.

Having a photo of a guest won't help to show they are genuine I'm afraid.

In your situation, I would withdraw the pre-approval and let the guest know if they want to book for a photo shoot you would need to discuss terms, see their liability insurance and agree a commercial rate.

[Cathie19]

Hi @Steven65 , @Helen3 has given you good advice here.

Just a couple of other issues to consider.

- Would your insurance policy cover the liability and use of your property for commercial photoshoots?

- Professional photoshoots can often involve many people coming and going on site, depending on the nature of the shoot. Do you want this to happen, even at a higher rental ? You would not have control over the number of people at any given time, only how many at night staying over.

- Adult entertainment/adult movies cannot be ruled out, unless use can be totally verified.

These are just thoughts that would stop me allowing commercial use, hence I’ve added it to my house rules. 

[Steven65]

@Helen3 @Helen3 Thank you for the very good advice. I will add non commercial use to my house rules. 

[Helen3]

I think it's already in Airbnb's T&C but by all means, do add it, if it makes you feel better.