Implications of background checks - Airbnb Help Center (2024)

FAQs

Do Airbnb hosts have to pass a background check? ›

Keeping our Airbnb family safe is one of our top priorities. If we have at least a first name, last name, and date of birth for a US-based user who creates a listing, or is associated with a booking, we may perform a background check on that user. We also may perform background checks on India-based Hosts.

You can submit an appeal via the link that appears when you try to log in. Or, simply contact customer service.

Airbnb began using Inflection to conduct background checks on hosts and guests in 2016 to ensure safety when someone is renting a home.

What information does Airbnb require from guests? Airbnb requires a standard list of information including legal name, address and/or other personal information to verify your identity, and a photo of a government ID (a driving license, passport, identity card or visa).

Blacklisting on Airbnb is a process based on specific criteria. These can include severe violations like property damage, theft, non-compliance with house rules, or any form of threatening or dangerous behaviour. Airbnb's system flags such guests, and upon review, may restrict their ability to make future bookings.

Hosts are not allowed to have security cameras and recording devices that monitor any part of a listing's interior, such as the listing's hallway, bedroom, bathroom, living room, or guest house, even if they're turned off or disconnected. Hidden security cameras are strictly prohibited.

AIRBNB RESOLUTION CENTER

The host has 60 days to make a claim on a deposit, but the earlier this is done, the better chance the host has of winning. If the other party denies to pay the claim, the complainer can then elect to involve a mediator at Airbnb. The mediator's decision is final and cannot be appealed.

Airbnb may take steps up to and including suspending or removing a guest, Host, or listing from the Airbnb platform if they fail to comply with our policies.

Writing an Effective Dispute Letter

Detail the Errors: Clearly describe the incorrect information and why it is wrong. Provide Supporting Evidence: Attach copies of documents that prove the correct information. Request Corrections: Ask the background check company to correct the errors and provide a corrected report.

While Airbnb doesn't typically do any type of background check or credit screening, their terms of service make it clear that Airbnb reserves the right to do so. However, it's not common for this policy to be enforced. Another way that Airbnb provides some type of screening is with both guest and host reviews.

How strict is Airbnb check-in time? ›

How strict are Airbnb check-in times? You don't have to arrive right at check-in time but you are expected to arrive within the next few hours. If you plan to arrive later, it's important to let your host know, as there may be certain check-in instructions they need to send you for a late arrival.

If check-in or checkout times aren't specified in the listing description, then the default check-in time is 3:00 PM and checkout is 11:00 AM (local time), unless otherwise noted by the Host.

Airbnb states that they check all users who make transactions on the platform on the OFAC list, which includes terrorist designations. For those users who live in the US, Airbnb checks certain databases of public state and county criminal records and state and national sex offender registries.

Limitations of Airbnb background checks:

Because our background checks are limited, we can't guarantee that they'll identify all past criminal convictions or sex offender registrations by a guest or Host. Therefore, you shouldn't rely on them as a guarantee that the user has no criminal background or other red flags.

Often, your legal name and address and/or other personal information are enough for us to verify your identity. We may also ask you to provide a copy of your government ID that includes a photo of you.

Existing listings may be verified using a combination of data from previous bookings and guest reviews as well as Host-provided documentation. Professional Hosts paired with a dedicated Airbnb account manager may be asked to attest to the accuracy of the listing.

The new regulations also include stricter rules on outdoor surveillance devices and noise monitors. Outdoor cameras, like Ring doorbells, remain permitted; however, Airbnb hosts must disclose the location any outdoor cameras before guests book.

Airbnb hosts generally give their guests privacy during their stay. Hosts will typically provide guests with all the information they need before their arrival, such as check-in instructions, and then leave them to enjoy their stay.