Airbnb Host Refused Refund, Led to Big Fine

A Troubling Experience at an Airbnb

Airbnb has become a popular choice for travelers seeking unique accommodations, but not all experiences are positive. One user shared a particularly unsettling story about their stay at an Airbnb, which highlights some of the challenges that can arise when booking through the platform.

The user and their partner arrived late in the evening at what was supposed to be a clean and comfortable place to stay. However, they were met with a shocking sight. The facilities were extremely dirty, and the condition of the property was far from acceptable. In the bathroom, there was what appeared to be vomit on the wall, and the kitchen and refrigerator were filled with old food. The cupboards, fridge, and stove were covered in dirty fingerprints, making the space feel unhygienic and uncomfortable.

The bed was unmade, and the sheets looked like they had been used. Additionally, the second bed frame made a loud squeaking noise every time someone moved, so the couple had to move the mattress to the floor just to get a decent night's sleep. They reached out to the host about these issues, but the response was less than satisfactory. The host claimed she hired a cleaning service and only reluctantly provided new sheets and towels. When the couple pointed out the vomit on the wall, the host insisted it was a paint stain, even though the user cleaned it up themselves.

Because it was late at night, they decided to stay the night and then requested a refund, as they had originally planned to stay for a week. However, the host refused to issue a refund and claimed that they needed to cancel the booking themselves. The user discovered that if the host had canceled, they wouldn’t have faced the penalty for early cancellation. This led to a frustrating situation where the couple was penalized for canceling, while the host was not held accountable.

After leaving the property, the couple continued to argue with the host about getting a refund for the extra day. The host refused and even informed Airbnb that they were difficult and had kicked them out. Despite sending pictures to Airbnb, the company sided with the host, citing their policy that any cancellations would result in a penalty.

Taking Matters into Their Own Hands

Determined to seek justice, the user discovered that the city where the Airbnb was located had an online registry for licensed secondary suites. Upon checking the address, they found that the property was unregistered, meaning it had never been inspected or paid the required licensing fees. The user then filed a complaint with the bylaw officer, providing details and pictures of the rear entrance.

As a result, the Airbnb host received a $2,000 fine and had to go through an inspection process. All this was due to the host’s refusal to refund $150 for the extra day. This outcome served as a lesson for the user and others who might find themselves in similar situations.

Community Reactions and Lessons Learned

The story sparked discussions on Reddit, with many users sharing their own experiences and opinions. Some expressed frustration over the lack of accountability for hosts, while others praised the user for taking action. One comment read, “Play stupid games and you’re gonna win stupid prizes!” highlighting the importance of being vigilant when booking accommodations.

This incident serves as a reminder that while Airbnb can offer great experiences, it is essential to be aware of the potential pitfalls. Travelers should always check the property’s legitimacy, read reviews carefully, and be prepared to take action if necessary. Ultimately, the experience underscores the need for better oversight and support for guests who encounter issues with their bookings.