Guest says on check-in day they’re bringing extra person to 1-guest listing. What would you do?

[Irfan62]

I have a reservation for a listing that strictly allows only one guest, clearly stated in the listing, house rules, and check-in instructions.

The guest booked on April 30, and on May 2 (check-in day) informed me they will be bringing their younger brother to stay overnight. This would exceed the maximum occupancy. The guest did not disclose this at booking.

Airbnb Support told me I can either cancel and lose the payout, or they will message the guest to remind them of the 1-guest rule.

Since the guest has not checked in yet, Airbnb considers this a potential violation rather than an active one. I’m trying to decide whether to proceed after Airbnb warns them or cancel outright given the risk.

My concern with Airbnb messaging the guest is that it may immediately create tension or a bad impression before the stay even begins. In my experience, that kind of early enforcement can lead to a negative guest experience and very likely a bad review, which is especially difficult to deal with given how hard it is to remove reviews on the platform.

What would you do in this situation?

[Emiel1]

@Irfan62 

You own 2 listings,they both show a double bed.

The amount of guests is not shown in the upper section of the listing.

(it says: 1 bed, shared bathroom)

It should say: 1 guest, 1 bedroom, 1 bed, shared bathroom: check the editor for correct settings),

But it is in the houserules: 1 guest maximum

Also the bookiing form only accepts 1 guest.

The guest can not bring in a second guest, he need to find an accommodation suitable for 2 persons.

If guest insists, ask Airbnb to cancel the booking, without penalties for you.