Unauthorized packages

[Kim937]

I'm writing this as a warning about allowing guests to receive packages to your listing because of the headache I endured today.

Yesterday, a large, very heavy package was delivered to my home for a guest arriving today.  It was so large that it blocked the stairs leading to my small front porch which resulted in me not being able to use my front door.  I was able to slide it down the steps and pull it into my driveway out of sight.  This guest did not ask to send packages here and certainly not in advance of his reservation.  He then cancelled his reservation this morning because he wanted to add children to the reservation despite my no child policy which I declined.  He made a big stink about getting a full refund with multiple messages back and forth.

I allowed him to pick up his package and thought that was the end of it.  He's now saying that additional packages are here which I'm not aware of.  After consulting a FB host forum, I took their advice and told him that if packages arrive, I will contact the carrier and have them sent back to the originator.  He just now threatened to come onto my property to look around for his packages which involves going into my backyard.  I've called Airbnb to report this as a safety concern. 

I don't want this man wandering around here in the dark uninvited.  I told him he is not welcome here and that if he does come by, I will consider it trespassing and contact the police.  Airbnb did say that they have escalated the issue but that I shouldn't expect to hear back from them for 24 hours.  Lastly, another Airbnb department has sent a message asking me arrange for his packages to be returned to him!  I'm perplexed by this because the large package was picked up earlier today and I'm unaware of other packages other than his claims. 

It's feeling more and more like a scam.

[Huma0]

@Mary996 

I am not sure. I don't think that the host is obligated to accept it, but I would probably say yes to that one, especially if they ask if it's okay. The problem, as you say, is that guests rarely ask.

In almost every case where a guest has asked if it's okay to have a package sent here and I've then reminded them, "Sorry no, it's stated in the house rules that you can't," (usually have to follow this with a detailed explanation of why), they seem taken aback and respond, "But it's already on its way..."

I'm tempted to say, "Well, then you're not really asking me, are you?" but I bite my tongue and politely ask them not to do it again. Many will do it again, they just won't mention it to me the next time.

[Stacey58 · Accepted solution]

I put in our house rules, description, booking confirmation, and check-in message that we do not allow for packages to be delivered for liability reasons. I list local Amazon locker locations and a UPS store location nearby if they need to have something shipped while they’re in the area. Haven’t had an issue since (knock wood!).