This provides a structured template and process for responding to Airbnb when a Host Damage Protection (Aircover) claim is denied or undercompensated. It helps ensure your communication is professional, assertive, and policy-backed to increase the likelihood of a favorable resolution.
Why This Matters
Airbnb hosts rely on Aircover for protection against damages caused by guests. When claims are rejected or insufficiently reimbursed, a structured and well-argued response is essential to advocate for proper compensation and uphold trust in Airbnb's system.
What You Need
A filed Aircover claim within Airbnb's required timeframe
Documentation of damages (photos, receipts, communication logs, etc.)
Airbnb’s claim decision or resolution email
Steps
Gather Documentation:
Collect all photos, receipts, time-stamped messages, and invoices related to the damaged or stolen items.
Customize the Response Template Below:
Fill in all placeholders (e.g., type of damage, specific items, value, shortfall, etc.)
Send to Airbnb Support (via message or case submission):
Template:
Hello [Airbnb Support/Representative Name],
I am writing to address the recent decision by Airbnb regarding our damage claim. While we appreciate the effort made in reviewing our submission, the outcome does not align with Airbnb's Host Damage Protection policy, nor does it reflect the actual losses we have incurred.
To reiterate, [briefly describe the issue — e.g., the guest caused significant damage to the couch and additional professional cleaning was required]. According to Airbnb’s policy, damages to [item type] are covered, and this incident falls squarely within the outlined terms.
The amount reimbursed falls short by [$XXX], despite the item(s) being in pristine condition before the stay. These were recently purchased and lightly used — depreciation in this case should not apply.
We followed all required steps:
- Submitted the claim within the timeframe
- Provided clear photographic evidence and receipts
- Supplied cleaning invoices and before/after documentation
We request that Airbnb reassess our claim and provide full reimbursement as per the Host Damage Protection policy.
We prefer an amicable resolution and believe this is consistent with Airbnb’s commitment to supporting hosts. However, if the decision remains unchanged, we will consider alternate actions, including:
- Sharing our experience on public forums and social media
- Requesting arbitration as outlined in Airbnb’s terms
- Seeking legal advice to pursue reimbursement
We trust that Airbnb values its hosts and will respond fairly. We appreciate your reconsideration and await a positive resolution.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
[Contact Information, if needed]
[Listing or Claim ID, if applicable]
Submit Follow-Up:
If there is no response within 48 hours, send a polite follow-up using Airbnb's messaging platform.
Escalate if Needed:
Contact Airbnb Support through Twitter/X, chat, or phone to escalate the matter. Mention that arbitration/legal steps may follow.
Next Steps / Related Reading
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Hello [Recipient's Name],
I am writing to address the recent decision by Airbnb regarding our damage claim. While we recognize and appreciate the initial efforts made in processing our claim, the outcome is unfortunately not in alignment with the expectations set by Airbnb's Host Damage Protection Terms, nor does it adequately compensate for the losses we have incurred.
To reiterate, [Describe the aircover claim you want to claim and what needs to be done. Damaged items? Extra cleaning? etc] Under the Host Damage Protection policy, we are entitled to full coverage for such losses and damages. The policy clearly states coverage for damage to [Specify the type of items], which directly applies to our situation.
The reimbursement offered falls short by [Amount in dollars]. This is a significant amount, especially considering the items were in pristine condition and now have to be replaced. It is imperative to recognize that depreciation should not apply to items of such recent purchase and minimal usage.
We followed all the necessary protocols, documenting the damages and filing the claim within the stipulated timeframe. Our adherence to these procedures was done with the understanding that Airbnb's policy would provide the necessary protection and support in such scenarios.
In light of this, we must firmly request a reassessment of our claim, with a view to receiving the full amount initially requested. It is not just a matter of financial reimbursement but also of trust in Airbnb's commitment to its hosts. As a platform that we rely on for our business, it is critical that these policies are upheld and applied fairly.
We wish to resolve this matter amicably and swiftly. However, should there be no revision to the current decision, we feel compelled to explore further actions. This includes, but is not limited to, publicizing our experience on social media platforms, initiating arbitration proceedings, and considering legal action to seek full reimbursement. These steps, while not our preferred course of action, may become necessary to protect our interests and ensure that the terms of the Host Damage Protection policy are fully honored.
We trust that Airbnb values its relationship with its hosts and will reevaluate our claim in light of the policy terms and the documentation provided. We await your prompt and positive response.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]