Do I have to 'decline' if a guest choosing another listing?

[Bri1]

A potential guest and I were messaging but she decided to book somewhere else. Airbnb generated me an email asking me to pre-approve or decline her... do I have to decline her and choose a false reason (the real one isn't there) or can I just let the time run out?

[Dave-and-Deb0]

Hi @Bri1,

If this was a reservation inquiry, all you have to do is respond within 24 hours.  You could also decline but you do not have to.  With that said, if it was a "reservation request", you have to approve or decline within 24 hours or it can hurt your response rating.

I hope this answers your question.

Dave