NEW T&C for AVOIDABLE HOST CANCELLATIONS
Airbnb has updated its Host Cancellation policy as of 22 August 2022. Take note as the financial consequences are quite severe if a host cancels a confirmed stay reservation or if the host is found to be responsible for a cancellation under this policy.
CANCELLATION FEES
The fees are steep and are based on the reservation amount and when the reservation is cancelled:
- If the reservation is cancelled 48 hours or less before check-in, or after check-in, the fee is 50% of the reservation amount for the nights not stayed;
- If the reservation is cancelled more than 48 hours, and 30 days or less, before check-in, the fee is 25% of the reservation amount;
- If the reservation is cancelled more than 30 days before check-in, the fee is 10% of the reservation amount.
These fees can range from a minimum cancellation fee of $50 USD to a maximum cancellation fee of $1,000 USD! The previous maximum host cancellation fee was $100 so rather a disruptive increase by Airbnb – the renowned disruptive organisation.
CONSEQUENCES
When calculating the cancellation fees, Airbnb uses the reservation amount and includes the base rate, cleaning fee, and any pet fees, but excludes taxes and guest fees. If the calculated cancellation fee is less than $50 USD, it will be adjusted up to $50 USD, and if the calculated fee is more than $1,000 USD, it will be adjusted down to $1,000 USD.
Cancellation fees are typically withheld from the next payout(s) to the Host.
In addition to a cancellation fee, the Host may be prevented from accepting another reservation if Airbnb applies a calendar block, which would prevent the Host from accepting another reservation for the Listing on the affected dates.
Hosts who repeatedly cancel confirmed bookings without a valid reason may have their listing or account suspended or removed, and may lose their Superhost status.