Long term reservation

[Sarah-And-Jed0]

My partner and I have just had our first booking request. Someone has requested to book a single room in our shared property for six months as they are on a work placement in London. The person has no reviews so far so we're trying to work out the best course of action. Is it best to meet the person first before agreeing to a longer term let? What is the cancellation policy during the long term let for either party. We would be happy to consider this as we have let out this room before to a lodger but Are concerned as we haven't met this person yet. Is there a way to have a trial booking and see how it goes? any recommendations?

[Dave-and-Deb0]

Hi @Sarah-And-Jed0,

I would consult you landlord and tenancy rules where you are located.  Some areas consider you a landlord after 28 days and you may fall under their rules.  We we live, we need to provide at least one month's notice and also if you want to get rid of someone, you may need to take them to court.

I would also ask a lot of questions of the guest before you accept their enquiry.  I think it is possible to do a trial period of two weeks to a month and then if you are both happy, you could allow the guest to book up your calendar for the remaining 6 month period.  This would require you to block off your calendar until your trial period is over so others don't book during this time.  

The nice thing about short term rentals is if you have a problem with a guest, you can just call Airbnb and get rid of them.  It is not so easy for long term rentals.

In regards to meeting the person before hand, you can do this but sometimes people will try to scam you or offer money outside of Airbnb which will put you outside of Airbnb's Host Guarantee.

Happy Hosting!

Dave

[Clare0]

Since you are new to Airbnb, many veteran hosts would caution you not to accept long term guests, however attractive the reservation.  You should get a little more experience with guests before you commit to such a long term.  That said, here are my suggestions: 

1. The guest must have Airbnb's Verified ID and have some good reviews.

2. You need to set up some House Rules detailing what your guests can and cannot do.  You have the smoking thing but you need to ask yourself:  Do you allow more people than the guest to stay overnight (girl friends, friends, family, etc.) Do you allow the guest to have friends over for a party? Do you allow the guest full use of your kitchen?  Do you allow pets?  Do you allow unlimited use of the WiFi, downloading movies, etc? Can the guest come and go at all hours of the night? Can the guest do laundry as much and as often as he wants? 

Keep in mind, guests are like roomates....you have to be compatible.  Besides, having House Rules helps Airbnb see what the agreement is between you and guests in the event there is a dispute.  It would be a good idea to look at similar listings in your area to see what other hosts put in their House Rules. 

3. You need to specify a Security Deposit in the event there is costly damage to your property.  Read about Security Deposits here: 

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/140/how-does-airbnb-handle-security-deposits

4. Here's a great article on Red Flags when evaluating a prospective guest: http://globalhosting.freeforums.net/thread/455/red-flags-hosts

5. Here's Airbnb's article on long term stays:   https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/805/what-are-some-things-i-should-consider-before-hosting-long-t...

6. Here's Airbnb's long term cancellation policy:  https://www.airbnb.com/home/cancellation_policies#long-term

And, finally, if you want to meet your prospective guest, go ahead, but don't do it at your place.  Coffee shop, park, whatever. 

Again, I stress caution since you are so new to this business, but in the end it is your choice.  Wish you the best of luck!

[Sabrina8]

Hello Clare, 

I just have to say that you are a person with a plethora of information that is EXTREMELY appreciated by a newbie host like me. 

I just had my first guest arrive last night and he is here until Monday, but I really didn't have well defined house rules, as of yet.  I am putting it together now (since I'm a pretty detail oriented person).   I am reviewing many issues/concerns posted on this community and adding to my house rules as aptly fitted.  

You are AWESOME!

[Clare0]

Aw, shucks..I'm blushing!

[Annies0]

I would suggest that you tell your prospective guest that you have no objection in principle to their extended reservation but suggest to them that they might like to initially make a shorter booking eg one week or two weeks so they can be sure your place is a good fit for them and their needs. This gives you the chance to scope things out before committing to a long term reservation.