@Ann72
Oh my gosh, you're right.
"Host-required security deposits are different from Airbnb-required security deposits in that no authorization hold will be placed. Guests will only be charged if a host requests to collect on their security deposit. Depending on what was damaged, the amount the host requests may or may not be the same as the security deposit."
"Before requiring a security deposit, hosts should understand that not all property damage caused by guests is within the terms of the Host Guarantee. Exclusions may include general cleaning, ordinary wear and tear, and non-physical damages like smoking fines and broken House Rules."
You possibly can't collect on the deposit if they smoke, if extra cleaning is required, or if they break other house rules??? WTF?? Why even bother listing house rules in the first place then? Smh.
The other possibility is that by doing this, Airbnb attracts more guests but then can weasel out of reimbursing the host for damages.