This outlines when and how to request the removal of an Airbnb guest review that violates Airbnb’s policies. This includes reviews that are biased, irrelevant, retaliatory, or violate content guidelines.
Why This Matters
Unfair or policy-violating reviews can negatively impact our reputation, future bookings, and Superhost status. Understanding when and how to request removals helps protect the integrity of our listings and ensures fair treatment under Airbnb’s review policy.
What You Need
Access to the Airbnb host account
Confirmation that the review violates one of Airbnb’s review policies
Relevant evidence or Airbnb case numbers (if applicable)
Steps – How to Request a Guest Review Removal
Step 1: Identify Which Policy the Review Violates
Airbnb may remove reviews that violate one or more of the following:
1. Review is Biased or Coercive (Incentivization)
Example: Guest threatens to leave a bad review unless compensated.
Template:
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to request the removal of a recent review left by a guest who violated Airbnb's review policy.
The guest threatened to leave a negative review if I did not issue a partial refund. This violates Airbnb’s review policy under “incentivization.”
Kindly review the situation and consider removing the review.
Thank you for your time.
2. Review is Irrelevant
Example: Review includes no meaningful feedback (e.g., “Nothing better”).
Template:
Hi,
I'm requesting the removal of a review left by [Guest Name], reservation code [XXXX]. The review does not reflect the guest’s experience and lacks specific or helpful feedback for future guests.
As per Airbnb’s relevance policy, it doesn’t meet the content criteria.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
3. Review Violates Airbnb’s Content Policy
Includes private/confidential info, discriminatory remarks, illegal activity, or threatening/harassing language.
Template:
Hello,
I’d like to request the removal of a review left by a guest with confirmation number [XXXX].
The review contains details about the exterior of the property, which violates Airbnb’s content policy around privacy and safety.
Please assist with removing this review to maintain our listing’s privacy.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
4. Review is Retaliatory (Following Rule Violations or Damages)
Example: Guest violates rules (e.g., party, smoking), then leaves a hostile review in response to your damage claim.
⚠️ Important: If Airbnb has already approved and paid the damage claim, the review cannot be removed.
Template:
Hi,
I'd like to request the removal of a retaliatory review. Reservation code: [XXXX].
A damage claim (case no. CLSF-[XXXXXX]) was submitted and approved due to [brief explanation – e.g., unauthorized party, smoking].
The review appears to be retaliatory following that claim. Per Airbnb’s updated review policy, I believe this qualifies for removal.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Step 2: Submit the Request
Go to Airbnb Help Center or contact Airbnb via chat or call
Provide the reservation code, the reason for removal, and any supporting evidence (e.g., screenshots, case numbers)
Step 3: Follow Up (If Needed)
If Airbnb doesn’t respond within 24–48 hours:
Reopen the conversation through the Help Center
Re-send the message with your reasoning and supporting details