Changing length of stay

[Martha110]

We have guests that have booked in for 11 nights but have they have decided to change their plans and go elsewhere on their last 2 nights. The booking commences within the week and within our strict cancellation policy. Legally, where do we stand in terms of refund...Do we have to refund the amount of those last 2 nights and amend the booking? Thanks in advance!

[Jack90]

If I recall correctly, strict cancellation means 50% refunded if cancelled a week or more in advance, but the entire accommodation is charged if cancelled within the week. I don't believe you have to refund it at all. Though, as the guest is still going to stay with you for 9 nights, I would suggest trying to solve this amicably. Explain to them that you have held this reservation for them for such and such period, preventing you from renting it out to others. Following the strict cancellation policy, the entire acommodation cost is charged and you don't have an obligation to amend it. 

Perhaps open your calendar for those dates and see if you can get another booking and deduct the difference if you do? 

[Jim-and-Marcia0]

Did the guests ask to change the reservation and refund them for the two nights they won't be staying? Or did they just notify you that they plan to leave early? It makes a difference in guest satisfaction and expectations. Airbnb support can clarify for you what will happen if you or they put in a request to change the number of nights, and the other party accepts. The Airbnb system will automatically take care of the amount of payment by following the strict cancellation policy. You will always have the option after the stay to refund any amount you wish to, or not.

You can choose to follow through and be strict about the cancellation of the last two days, or you can choose to be more accommodating. I would suggest you compromise with the guest and modify the reservation in a way that will make it a win-win, and give the guest a reason to be grateful.  Afterall, they will be staying at your place for 9 nights.  Starting off with a good rapport will likely result in a great stay for the guests and a higher chance they will take good care of your property. Think about building positive travel karma! What goes round comes round.

You have a beautiful place in a great location, which should be easy to rent. However, I see from your listing that you rarely host guests. Is that because you don't offer to, or because guests choose not to book? With strict cancellation policy and a 5 day minimum stay and a significant cleaning fee, you may be limiting your potential bookings and earnings.

Good luck with making your decision and hosting your guests in a way that will make their trip memorable!

[Regina38]

tell the guest they have to go in and amend the reservation. Do not do it as the host.  tell them you will refend the nights less airbnb charges if you rent those nights at the same rate or higher otherwise the cancelation policy will be followed.