Hosts aren’t allowed to charge guests a security deposit through our Resolution Centre or outside the Airbnb platform. Instead, we inform guests at the time of booking that their payment method may be charged if they cause damage during a stay.
There is one exception: Hosts who manage their listings with API-connected software can set a security deposit using our offline fees feature. If a Host has done this, the deposit requirements will be clearly communicated during the booking process.
Damage reimbursem*nts without a security deposit
If a guest, someone they invite, or a pet causes damage during a stay, the Host can request reimbursem*nt from the guest through our Resolution Centre. If Airbnb gets involved and determines that the guest was responsible, the guest’s payment method may be charged.
If you're a guest, learn more about what to do if you, a guest or a pet causes damage here. If you're a Host, learn more about how to request reimbursem*nt for damage, missing items, and unexpected cleaning here.
