A weary Airbnb traveller named PM found themselves in a nightmare scenario on the dimly lit streets of Washington, D.C. It was midnight and PM’s world was turned upside down. Their host, rather than offering a warm, hospitable environment, had thrown them and their belongings out onto the cold, unforgiving pavement. In the heart of the night, under the unyielding glare of streetlights, PM’s passport and personal belongings lay strewn in grocery bags, like the remnants of a failed escape plan.
Surviving A Midnight Airbnb Eviction Drama
What caused this strange, late-night eviction to occur? A stroke of bad luck, or better put, a twist in the check-out date. In a state of confusion, the host had assumed that PM’s visit was over and that someone else was eager to take over the accommodations. There was a stark difference, though: PM’s booking confirmation made it very evident that the check-out time was 11 am the next morning. The host appeared resolute in throwing them out on the streets at the stroke of midnight.
There is more to the story, though. PM, a watchful and resolute guest, presented the host with irrefutable proof—the reservation confirmation—which demonstrated the prearranged check-out time like an anchor in a storm. The host was forced to retract and let PM spend the night after becoming hesitant. The host had in fact mixed up her dates, so the much-anticipated “new guest” never showed up, leaving PM in a confusing and awkward situation.
Your Guide For Airbnb Host Evictions
Now, the question becomes, how does one deal with such a peculiar Airbnb predicament? If your Airbnb host throws you out on the street at midnight due to a misunderstanding, here are the steps you can take to handle the situation:
- Contact Your Host
As a first step, try to communicate with your host and clarify the situation. In the case mentioned, it appears that the host misunderstood the check-out date. Politely show them your booking confirmation, which clearly states the check-out time.
- Document The Incident
Take photos or videos of the situation, including your belongings on the street, the condition of the property, and any conversations with the host. This evidence may be useful in any potential dispute.
- Reach Out To Airbnb Customer Service
If the host is unresponsive or refuses to cooperate, contact Airbnb’s customer service immediately. You can reach them through email, chat, or the provided phone number, which is +44 203 318 1111. Explain the situation, provide all relevant details, and express your concerns about the host’s actions.
- Use The Resolution Centre
If the issue involves financial matters, you can use Airbnb’s Resolution Centre to open a refund or payment request. You have up to 60 days after your reservation’s checkout date to submit a request.
- Ask Airbnb To Mediate
If you and the host cannot agree, you can request Airbnb to mediate the situation. Airbnb will review the information provided by both parties and make a final decision. Remember that issues must be reported to Airbnb within 72 hours of discovery to be eligible under their rebooking and refund policy.
- Document And Stay Safe
Ensure your safety throughout the process. If necessary, contact local authorities or the police if you feel threatened or unsafe.
Airbnb has processes in place to assist both hosts and guests in case of disputes or unexpected situations.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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