how to check references whenall email addresses and phone numbers are all blocked

[Greg21]

I have a group of ten people looking to make a booking, and he is trying to send me reference phone number and email addresses and they are all blocked. How can I communicate with my future guest???

[David126]

Through the ABB message system.

[Nancy-Towne0]

I tell them of this hideous way Airbnb handles it; then I spell out my number in the form of a sentence: ie:  Eight six seven, then five, three "o" nine.

[Stu2]

Try having them send the phone number in 3 seperate messages.  Area code, then first three numbers, then last four numbers.

[Barb6]

Yes all separate so it doesn't appear as a phone number or it will be blocked. 

[Helen3]

@Greg21 suprised to see so many people here suggesting ways to get around BNB rules.

BNB block phone/email until the guest has booked for your security and the guests. . Often those wanting your contact details want to haggle about prices and/or get you to book outside of BNB

Your listing and messaging through BNB will provide all the information a guest needs to make a decision.

If you are allowing groups in your property I would recommend

1. Only taking people with verified ID 

2. If you don't live on the property make sure someone is on hand to greet and on checkout

3. Have CCTV outside

4. Make sure your house rules are comprehensive and cover noise, not having additional guests on the property, no parties

5. Find out about plans for their stay

6. Making sure you add a deposit to your listing. BNB don't take the money but hold a charge on their card/

Good luck

Helen

[Andrew90]

Greg, contact AirBNB explain that you need to contact host and why and that you dont' feel comfortable rending without checking references.  When I signed up they told me AirBNB could facilate getting in touch with a guest in a simlar situation (to verify age). Interested to find out if it works.  I'm sure there will be some pushback.