@Georgia61. First of all, you need to know that Airbnb does not charge a security deposit, but rather the guest is informed that they may be charged up to the security deposit amount a host sets if they cause damage during their stay. These links should give you more information on this:
https://community.withairbnb.com/t5/Airbnb-Updates/Your-top-questions-about-Host-Guarantee/m-p/56268...
https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/264/what-do-i-do-if-my-guest-breaks-something-in-my-place
As for the amount, this will be up to you and the value of your furnishings, artwork, etc. I have removed all very valuable items from my Entier Home and have set a security deposit as $150. Airbnb allows hosts to set a security deposit up to $5,000.
In three years I've had to file a claim against the security deposit twice. One for a stained pillow case which needed to be replaced, one for a lost key where I had to have the locks re-keyed. In both cases I filed a claim through the Resolution Center and had to get Airbnb involved to get the reimbursement from the guest which they did.
The keys to getting Airbnb to resolve claims in your favor are these:
- Send attachments showing the original cost of the item and a receipt for the replacement
- Attach photos of the damaged item
- If possible get the guest to admit through Airbnb's messaging system that they caused the damage so there is a record for Airbnb to see.
- Make your claim as soon as possible. For security deposit claims, you must make a claim within 14 or before the next guest checks in. If you don't have documentation at that time, you can still send it later.
As I'm sure you know, a host can't just pull a number out of the air and expect a guest or Airbnb to just give it to you. Always substantiate the amount you are claiming with documentation. I keep receipts for everything I've purchase for the rental, mainly for tax purposes, but it really comes in handy in the event of damage.
Hope this helps!