VERY early check-in

[Bruce-And-Patty0]

We always try to accommodate early check-ins, especially for people who are flying and have early arrivals.  However, we just had a guest ask to check in at 4 am (our check-in time is 3 pm). They live 3 hours away by car and want to drive at night to avoid traffic, thus the request for a 4 am check-in.  I’m feeling conflicted about this.  Inasmuch as we want to be good hosts, I think asking to check in a half-day early is a bit much.  I do not see a way to charge for an early check-in, but maybe I’m missing it?

Thanks.

[Johanna394]

@Bruce-And-Patty0 

If guests desire THAT early check-in, they could/should simply book one extra day - assuming you could accommodate such time + no back-to-back guests.

[Mark116]

I would say no.  If they want to check in to what amounts to the middle of the previous night, they should book the extra day.  Or, if you want to be extremely neutral, just tell them that due to check-out time being XX and the need for cleaning, staging and air out the property, it is not possible for them to check in that early.

[Emilia42]

These guests aren't asking you for an early check-in, @Bruce-And-Patty0, they're asking you for a free night. If they were at all considerate, they would have naturally booked the night before and told you they would be arriving very late, after midnight. Watch out for these types of guests.

[Gwen386]

I wholly agree with @Emilia42   

Just politely respond that the property is booked until Noon and that you need the 3 hours to prepare for their check-in. 

[Jolene68]

I had a last minute booking yesterday at 11.30pm. Guest stated want to book but facing the payment problem and asking if I can accept payment out of Airbnb. I rejected his request, and he was using 3 different accounts to  communicate with me and try to make payment. This dragged until past 12mn and he manage to get 1 night price instead of 2 nights.

I still accept his booking but I request extra payment for his "early check in" fee (check in 2am). I request him to put the extra fee on the table when he check out. 

I am wondered if Airbnb can help to charge this guest if he didn't put down the money when he check out. He did agreed for the extra fees after all. 

I am not sure if I am doing a right way because I am still new to Airbnb hosting. 

[Gwen386]

With all the red flags regarding this guest having problems with payment, I would have declined to host him from the start. And I have concerns about AirBnB assisting you in getting an extra fee because I think it’s outside of their TOS for host to even talk about payments that’s not included with the reservation itself. 

I suggest in the future—and this is for safety concerns too—not to entertain guests who are having a problem paying and/or not being able to follow your house rules regarding check-in/check-out times.