Guest wants us to cancel due to health

[Daniel214]

I have a guest that has to cancel their reservation due to a medical diagnosis. They are in the hospital and unable to access a computer to process the cancellation themselves. I see that there are penalties for the host making the cancellation and I don't want to do that  so how do I process the cancellation to get the unit back on the market without penalties? There are no funds to be returned and I have been given over a weeks notice. I would like to just clear the reservation and move on without any consequences.

[Gerry-And-Rashid0]

I think there is a possiblity you are being scammed - I could be wrong, but..... They could phone AirBnB - they seem to be able to contact you. They could also ask someone from their family, etc to cancel for them. You will be penalised if you cancel as the system just sees a host cancelling.

[Alice-and-Jeff0]

You are clearly a kind-hearted and considerate host.  Please beware.  Make sure you are only contacting them through the Airbnb portal and do not act on their behalf.  If they need to cancel they should be responsible for their commitments.  You may want to remind them that you have a Moderate cancellation policy for the property and they shouldn't wait too long to cancel and if they have extenuating circumstances, Airbnb will help them get their full payment back but you, unfortunately, do not have the means to make that happen.  

Good luck. 

[Deb29]

Definitely do not want to be the one to officially cancel or beware of the Airbnb penalties

[David126]

Agree sounds like a possible scam, they can get their fees back etc from ABB if they contact them direct with evidence of their medical situation.