Switching properties

[Shauna161]

I booked a house on Airbnb. The host texted me and asked if I would switch properties. The new house is not listed on Airbnb and he’s texting, not messaging through Airbnb. Is this allowed? It feels very sketchy. 

[Kitty-and-Creek0]

@Shauna161 

It definitely feels sketchy to me as well. May I suggest you start by coping the texts and pasting to the message thread for your reservation? That would bring the conversation to the platform, where you could respond on the record. 

It is not appropriate nor safe to go off platform.  In addition,  I surely would not agree to switch houses, particularly not to one that is not listed on the platform. This is not at all appropriate, and to add to the situation, you have no idea what you'd be getting, or getting into. Not my cuppa tea, and a very potential bait and switch.

I'd find it easy to report the host, run like crazy and not look back! 

Best wishes and let us know what you decide and what happens

[Joelle43]

Hello @Shauna161 

Totally agree with @Kitty-and-Creek0 recommendations and I would flatly refuse to be moved to a listing that I have never seen or had a chance to read the comments left by previous guests.  The fact that they are messaging off platform is a red flag and is against Airbnb's Terms and Conditions. 

As hosts we are able to offer alternate accommodation ONLY if the property is listed on the platform and IF the guest agrees:

https://www.airbnb.com/help/article/250?_set_bev_on_new_domain=1729240373_EAYzVkZTRhY2NkNj&locale=en

You have the right to be totally refunded and a call to Customer Service might be wise here.

Good luck and keep us posted!

Joëlle