Dealing with Airbnb Damages: What Every Host Needs to Know
Being an Airbnb host comes with plenty of rewards: meeting new people from all over the world, creating memorable guest experiences, and earning an income from your property. But along with the highs, there are some inevitable challenges. One of the trickiest (and most stressful) situations a host can face is when a guest damages your Airbnb property.
Whether it’s a red wine spill on the couch, a broken lamp, or something much more costly like a hole in the wall, damages happen even with the best guests. Knowing how to handle these situations calmly and confidently will save you stress and money while protecting your hosting reputation.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything Airbnb hosts need to know about dealing with damages, from prevention strategies to filing claims with Airbnb.
Why Damages Happen in Airbnb Rentals
The first thing to remember is that damages don’t always come from careless or disrespectful guests. Sometimes accidents simply happen. Guests are on vacation, they might be unfamiliar with your home, or they might be celebrating a special occasion.
Common causes of Airbnb damages include:
Accidents: Spilled drinks, dropped plates, or children knocking things over.
Negligence: Leaving candles unattended, dragging furniture across hardwood floors, or smoking indoors despite house rules.
Parties and events: These can often lead to the most serious property damage.
Pets: Scratched floors, chewed furniture, or “accidents” on carpets.
By understanding the risks, hosts can take steps to minimize them.
Preventing Airbnb Damages Before They Happen
While you can’t control every guest’s behavior, you can set up your property and processes to reduce the risk of damage.
1. Write Clear House Rules
Guests can’t follow rules they don’t know exist. Make sure your Airbnb house rules are clear and visible in your listing and inside the property. Examples include:
No smoking inside.
No parties or events.
Pets only with prior approval.
Respect check-in and check-out times.
Adding specifics like “Please use coasters on wooden furniture” or “No shoes on the carpet” sets expectations upfront.
Check out our easy to download and edit range of ‘Guest Welcome Books’.
2. Use Durable Furnishings and Materials
When possible, invest in host-friendly, durable items. For example:
Washable slipcovers for sofas.
Rugs that are easy to clean.
Stain-resistant bedding.
Scratch-resistant flooring.
Not only will these last longer, but they’ll save you time and frustration in the long run.
3. Require a Security Deposit
Airbnb allows you to set a security deposit (though it works differently than traditional rentals). While Airbnb doesn’t automatically charge guests upfront, it gives you the right to request reimbursement for damages. This can deter careless behavior.
4. Install Smart Tech
Simple devices can help prevent damages:
Noise monitors to detect unauthorized parties.
Smart locks so you know who is entering your property.
Cameras (only outside, for privacy reasons) to monitor activity.
5. Screen Guests Carefully
Look at guest reviews before accepting bookings. If someone has a history of negative feedback, it may be best to decline.
Here are some other related Blog Posts we think you might like
Why Every Host Needs ‘Guest Communication Templates’.
Amenities You Need To Help You Stand Out
What to Do When Damages Happen
Even with prevention strategies, Airbnb damages are sometimes unavoidable. Here’s a step-by-step approach to handling them.
Step 1: Document Everything Immediately
The moment you notice damage, take photos and videos. The clearer your evidence, the stronger your case when dealing with Airbnb. Make sure the images have timestamps.
For example:
A close-up of the damage (e.g., wine stain on the couch).
A wide shot showing the location.
Receipts or invoices for the item’s value, if available.
Step 2: Contact the Guest Directly
Airbnb encourages hosts to first try resolving the issue directly with the guest through the platform’s messaging system. Be polite but firm. For example:
“Hi [Guest Name], I noticed the [specific damage] after your stay. Could you please let me know what happened? I’ll need to request reimbursement through Airbnb’s Resolution Center.”
Often, guests admit the mistake and are willing to pay.
Pro tip: the clearer your check-in messages and house rules, the fewer “oops” damages you’ll run into. I use Guest Communication Templates to make this part quick and consistent you can check them out Here if you’d like to use them too.
Step 3: File a Claim with Airbnb’s Resolution Center
If the guest refuses or doesn’t respond, the next step is filing a claim. Here’s what to know:
Timeline: You must file within 14 days of checkout or before the next guest checks in (whichever comes first).
How: Go to the Resolution Center in your Airbnb account, upload evidence, and submit your request.
Guest response: Guests have 72 hours to accept or decline your request.
Step 4: Rely on Airbnb’s AirCover for Hosts
If the guest doesn’t cooperate, Airbnb offers AirCover, which protects hosts up to $3 million in property damage. This covers:
Damage to furniture and belongings.
Unexpected cleaning costs from damages.
Lost income if you need to cancel upcoming reservations for repairs.
However, note that AirCover doesn’t replace proper insurance. It’s wise to also have short-term rental insurance to cover situations Airbnb doesn’t.
Common Types of Airbnb Damages (and How to Handle Them)
Let’s look at real-life examples most hosts will face:
Stains on bedding or furniture
Wash immediately with stain remover.
If ruined, file a claim for replacement.
Broken furniture or appliances
Provide receipts if you purchased the item recently.
If it’s older, you may need to show proof of value or replacement cost.
Wall damage (holes, scratches, marks)
Take detailed photos.
Get a repair quote to submit to Airbnb.
Pet damage
Always ask for photos and receipts if claiming.
If it’s major (e.g., carpet ruined), involve AirCover.
Unauthorized parties
Document with neighbors’ reports or noise monitor data.
Take photos of mess/damages left behind.
How Much Can Airbnb Hosts Claim for Damages?
Hosts often wonder: Is it worth going through the process? The answer depends on the situation.
Small damages (under $50) may not be worth the time, unless it happens repeatedly.
For larger damages (hundreds or thousands of dollars), it’s essential to file.
Since AirCover protects up to $3 million, it’s definitely worth pursuing bigger claims.
Tips to Protect Yourself as a Host
Do a thorough walkthrough between every stay. Don’t wait until weeks later to notice something.
Keep an inventory checklist so you know exactly what’s in your property.
Photograph your property before check-in. This creates a baseline to compare against after check-out.
Invest in short-term rental insurance to complement Airbnb’s coverage.
Stay professional when handling damages. Avoid anger in messages — it can harm your reputation if Airbnb reviews your case.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Damages Discourage You
Every Airbnb host will face damages at some point — it’s part of the business. The good news is, with the right systems in place, you can handle damages without losing money or sleep.
Prevent issues with clear rules, durable furnishings, and smart tech.
Document damages and act quickly through the Resolution Center.
Lean on AirCover and insurance for protection.
Remember: the majority of guests are respectful and will leave your place in great condition. Damages are the exception, not the rule. By staying prepared, you can focus on what matters most: delighting your guests and growing your Airbnb business.
Happy Hosting!