@Sarah977 Yes, apparently there is no such thing as host protection with airbnb. The host deposit is definitely a joke.
When you make a request, they will reiterate the timeline over and over, when the truth is they who do not access your request during the allotted time. In my experience, airbnb does not investigate or consider evidence of damage. You cannot contact them and they will never give you a reason you were not granted the host deposit for damage. I have never had a guest "confess" to doing damage. Why would they? I am losing faith in this business and the lack of host protection and rights.
I would file a complaint with the BBB, but they already have an F rating and are not accredited. I am also considering filing a complaint with the CFPD.
After finding holes my garage walls, kitchen counters damaged beyond repair, cookware ruined or missing, bath and bedding stained, or missing or destroyed, patio screen doors broken, insulated front doors dented in, blinds broken, drapes taken down and put back wrinkled, and pieces of furniture damaged with no recourse over the past 2 years, I believe I will have more control and better luck on a different platform where I can actually require a damage deposit and apply it to damages incurred.
Others have similar frustrations about the service via airbnb.