Bringing an extra guest can frustrate Airbnb hosts, especially when there’s no notice.
Whether they are a close friend, workmate, or family member, they are considered unauthorized guests. Some hosts will consider it, but it might affect their rental property.
Airbnb has general guidelines where hosts can specify the maximum number of guests they will allow.
Concerns such as guests bringing more guests to hold a party are just one of the problems for rental hosts.
In this article, we will discuss the consequences if guests bring more guests than booked and what proactive measures a host should take.
Is It Allowed to Bring Extra Guests to Airbnb?
In Airbnb, the policy regarding bringing extra guests depends on the specific situation and the host’s rules. Each listing has limits regarding the number of guests allowed inside a property.
It is usually stated in the house rules or the listing description.
A guest should only immediately bring an extra guest after informing the host in the first place. Telling the host about bringing additional people is essential because permission is needed.
A host can decline an extra guest based on their policies and the property’s capacity.
Consequences for Hosts
If a guest brings extra guests than what is booked, the following are the consequences a rental host may face:
Disruption of Property Rules
If your guest brings another guest, there’s a higher chance that they might disobey the set house rules when they are unaware.
It might cause a headache and even affect your status as a host if you don’t correctly approach the extra guest on your property.
Safety Concerns
Exceeding the maximum occupancy of a property can pose safety risks. As a host, you may have set a limit based on factors such as fire safety regulations or the capacity of utilities.
When these limits are exceeded, it can compromise the safety of everyone on the property.
Increased Wear and Tear
More guests mean increased usage of amenities, appliances, and facilities. It can result in a higher wear and tear especially if there are more than two additional guests.
It will worsen if the property is used for a party, which can result in damage and frequent maintenance.
Consequences for Guests
On the other hand, there are also consequences for guests bringing another guest into their accommodation. The following are the most common consequences:
Breach of Trust
Bringing more guests than booked breaches the trust between the guest and the host. It goes against the agreed-upon terms and can damage the host-guest relationship.
It can lead to negative reviews, affecting your reputation as a guest on the platform and your chances of booking future accommodations.
Limited Space
Limited space properties are usually suitable for one person, and adding another guest might make it cramped. There might be insufficient bedding and inadequate amenities.
When you bring extra people, it can lead to overcrowding on the host’s property.
It can result in discomfort for both the host and the guests, as the space may need to be designed or equipped to accommodate additional individuals.
Additional Charge
Some hosts may charge extra fees for additional guests.
When you bring more people without notifying the host or paying the required fees, you may be subject to additional charges or penalties that can lead to unexpected expenses.
What Should a Host Do if They Found an Extra Guest?
If a host discovers that extra guests are staying in their Airbnb property without prior permission, here are some steps that you can take:
Communicate With the Guests
Contact the guests and politely inquire about the extra person staying in the property. It’s essential to approach the situation calmly and professionally.
Review the House Rules
Remind the guests about the maximum occupancy and any specific rules regarding additional guests that were outlined in the listing description or the house rules.
Emphasize the importance of following these guidelines for the comfort and safety of everyone involved.
Discuss Potential Solutions
Depending on the circumstances, discuss potential solutions with the guests.
It could include asking the extra guest to leave, adjusting the reservation to accommodate the additional person with the host’s approval, or finding alternative accommodations for the extra guest.
Enforce Penalties or Charges
If you have specified penalties or charges for extra guests in the listing, you can inform the guests about the applicable fees.
It can help cover any additional costs or inconvenience caused by the unauthorized presence of the extra guest.
Report the Incident to Airbnb
If the situation cannot be resolved satisfactorily with the guests, hosts can report the incident to Airbnb. Provide details about the unauthorized guest and any attempts to address the issue.
Airbnb can provide guidance and take appropriate action based on its policies.
Update Guidelines
After the incident, you may consider updating their house rules or listing description to include stricter guidelines regarding extra guests.
Clarify the maximum occupancy and clearly state the consequences for violating these rules to avoid similar issues in the future.
What Should a Guest Do If They Need to Bring an Extra Guest?
If a guest needs to bring an extra guest to an Airbnb property, following the proper protocol and communicating with the host is essential. Here are some steps to take:
Check the Listing Details
Before making a reservation, carefully review the listing description and house rules to see if there are any specific guidelines regarding additional guests.
The host may have already provided information about the maximum occupancy or whether they allow extra guests.
Inform the Host
Contact the host directly and explain your situation. Politely ask if it would be possible to accommodate the extra guest and inquire about any additional fees or requirements that may apply.
Be clear and transparent about the number of guests you intend to bring.
Obtain Permission
It is essential to ask permission from the host before bringing an extra guest.
If the host agrees, they may provide instructions on updating the reservation to include the additional person or inform you of any extra charges that may apply.
Respect the Host’s Decision
If the host declines your request or cannot accommodate the extra guest, it is essential to respect their decision.
Accepting the host’s decision gracefully helps maintain a positive host-guest relationship.
Find Other Option
If the host cannot accommodate the extra guest, consider alternative options.
Look for nearby Airbnb listings that accommodate your desired number of occupants or explore other options.
Update the Reservation
On the other hand, if the host agrees to the request, follow their instructions on updating the reservation to include the additional guest.
It may involve adjusting the reservation details or paying any additional fees specified by the host.
Communicate Clearly With the Extra Guest
Ensure the extra guest understands the rules and expectations the host sets. Inform them of any guidelines, house rules, or additional fees that may apply to their stay.
Conclusion
When guests bring more people than booked, it can cause consequences for both hosts and guests. Hosts may experience disruption of property rules, safety concerns, and increased maintenance costs.
Guests may face breaches of trust, limitation of space, and financial consequences.
It is essential to ask for consent to bring an extra guest so the host is aware of it. On the other hand, the host has the right to decline to give their policies.
Clear communication is essential to avoid disputes in rental space and encourage a positive travel community.
