Is it common for guests to complain to get a free nights stay?

[Kathryn277]

I had a most distressing experience with a guest recently and I’m beginning to hear that this can be a common thing to acquire free or cheap accommodation. 

I had a group of 3 stay in our cottage and when I checked on them the next day after they arrived (they were staying 2 nights), one of the group absolutely tore shreds off me for having such a filthy, tired and dated Airbnb. I was absolutely shocked as every other guest I’ve ever had has been lovely and I frequently get feedback remarking how clean the cottage is.

I ended up relenting and refunding the second night, but I stand by our cottage being absolutely immaculately clean and tidy, I’m at an absolute loss around her reaction. They did not leave feedback (and it’s now too late) and I didn’t leave them any in fear of what they would write. 

Is this a common thing for people to react like this to get free nights? I am curious to know, also still hurting over her rude and nasty comments. The whole thing has us completely dumbfounded.

[Cormac0]

@Kathryn277

And by your very action, you have ensured that this sort of behaviour will perpetuate...

[Sandra126]

Yes Cormac (can't tag sorry), no review and a one night refund. A traveller's dream.

[Yulianna0]

@Kathryn277, what a pity that you just refunded the night. When you are absolutely sure that your place is clean and tidy, you could suggest her a deal. You refund one night and she is giving you master class in cleaning. With pictures before and after:) Seriously, don’t refund if there were no real problems. If someone lucks culture to be a reasonable guest, you don’t have to pay for it. 

[Kath9]

@Kathryn277, yes, sadly, this kind of behaviour is becoming more common (although I personally haven't had this experience). It makes me feel sick that there are people like this out there, that will simply exploit people to get out of paying a fair price. But the others are correct - you shouldn't have given into their demands if you truly felt they were unjustified. I understand it can be difficult to stand our ground with guests, but it's really important to **bleep** this kind of behaviour in the bud. If they review you, it will probably be bad whether or not you refunded them. Anyway, I trust that their karma will catch up with them at some point.

[Kath9]

Hahaha, I can't believe they **bleeped** out the word 'n i p'!

[Ben551]

@Kath9Hahahahahaha classic!