Host is charging extra for an engagement proposal

Host is charging extra for an engagement proposal

I booked an AirBnb a couple of months ago and stated to the host that I'll be proposing to my girlfriend at the host's AirBnb. The host was fine with this until I messaged her today asking a few more questions around how to get to the place. She then asked how many other people are coming which i responded with 4 - her sister, bestfriend, photographer and videographer. The extra guests will only be there to set-up, see the proposal and then leave. She stated this is now listed as an 'event' and requested an extra $350 under 'extra services'. 

 

This would make sense if the guests were staying for the duration of the stay, as the host would have to prepare extra amenities. However, these guests will only be there for a few hours. The booking is in one week so I'm pretty limited with options. 

 

I was just wondering if this charge is fair and warranted? 

2 Replies 2
Helen3
Top Contributor
Bristol, United Kingdom

It's not clear how you want to use the listing @Benjamin1386  are you using it for a photoshoot/video? 

what do you mean by 'see the proposal '? 

Jennifer1897
Level 10
Irvine, CA

@Benjamin1386 Congratulations on your future proposal. In regard to your concern/question, there are a couple things we can cover. 

 

A lot of hosts only allow registered guest in the property. This could be a personal reason, or it could coincide with the legal requirements in their area. Additionally, unregistered guests pose a liability to hosts, if anything were to happen (damage, etc) both guest and host could encounter difficulties with coverage. Even if the guest is not staying overnight, they are still in the home.

 

Parties are strictly prohibited. A host risks suspension of their listing if they knowingly allow gatherings or potential parties. My. guess would be when you initially told the host you were going to propose they assumed it would be you and your partner, however having additional guests including a videographer and photographer may have set off some alarms for the host.

 

As for the charges, I would ask her to clarify what they are for. Is it a charge for the extra persons, or possible a deposit for potential damages or extra cleaning due to guest count? Host reserve the right to charge for additional guest, cleaning and whatnot, however it should be clearly stated in their listing. I would seek more clarification and go from there.  it's hard to say if it's warranted based on the little information about what the charge is for.