This SOP walks you through how to assess a new Airbnb booking request, identify red flags, and respond with the appropriate message and questions to vet the guest.
We want to ensure we're hosting respectful, trustworthy guests who align with our house rules and values. Vetting new inquiries helps prevent property damage, noise complaints, and overall headaches.
✅ Prerequisites
Access to Airbnb messaging platform
Ability to view guest profiles
Understanding of our house rules
Step 1: Check for Red Flags
Look at the guest’s message and profile. Be cautious if you notice any of the following:
No reviews
Vague or missing reason for visit
Bad grammar or disorganized communication
1-night booking request
Local guest (same city as the property)
Avoids answering your questions
Unfriendly, rude, or not excited
Asks for discounts
🔍 Tip: Click on the guest’s profile and check:
Are the reviews recent?
Are reviews detailed or just one-liners?
Do any hosts mention their full name? If yes, you can do a quick social media check (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn)
If they don’t have a perfect 5.0 rating, see what the negative reviews say
Step 2: Respond with Standard Vetting Questions
Hi (GUEST NAME),
Thanks for your interest in staying at our place!
Just a few quick questions to help us finalize the booking:
1) What’s the brief purpose of your visit? (Skip if they already explained)
2) Are any guests smokers? (We don’t allow smoking inside the home)
3) Any pets?
4) Will there be a total of X guests?
5) What’s your relationship with the other guests? (Skip if already mentioned)
6) Have you and your guests read and agreed to our house rules?
7) Once accepted, are you willing and able to provide a photo ID that matches your Airbnb profile?
Looking forward to hearing back!
🙋♀️ FAQs
Q: Can I check in early?
Hi (Guest Name), we’ll try our best, but we won’t know until closer to your arrival. If someone checks out the same morning, earliest check-in is usually 3 PM. We want to make sure the home is safe and clean for you!
Q: Can I have a late check-out?
Hi (Guest Name), what time were you thinking? Latest we can offer is 11 AM at no extra charge. We’d really appreciate a 5-star review in return 😊
Q: Do you provide cribs?
Hi (Guest Name), we don’t provide cribs, but the home is spacious and you’re welcome to bring your own!