Photo byKarsten WinegeartonUnsplash

I don't know about you, but the thought of staying in someone else's home makes me more nervous than staying in a hotel. For me, the reason that I am afraid I may be stuck with a bill for something I didn't do, and fighting it would be my word against theirs. The good news is that I haven't had a bad experience yet.

However, there are still things I do to safeguard myself as best I can. Here are x must-know tips for protecting yourself when renting an Airbnb.

Check Reviews

Before diving in too deep with pictures and details, the very first thing I do when I find a potential property to rent is to check out the reviews. I find the reviews to be pretty accurate. Red flags include insufficient communication, lack of cleanliness, false charges, and false advertisements.

I will pay a little more for a property hosted by a "super host."

Price Breakdown

Carefully read the price breakdowns. Typical charges, in addition to the nightly rate, include a cleaning fee, a hosting fee, and a pet deposit. Make sure there aren't any additional fees.

House Rules

Carefully read the house rules to make sure they are reasonable and something you can abide by. I personally want to know what they expect from me as far as cleaning since they charge a cleaning fee. For example, I do not feel it is my job to deep clean when I have paid you to do that. Beware of hosts who have very nitpicky cleaning instructions and say they will charge you if the property is not left sufficiently clean.

Time-Stamped Photos Upon Arrival

As soon as I arrive at the property, I inspect it before unloading any of my items. I also take time-stamped photos to show the condition of the home at the time of my arrival. If it is a self-check-in, I let the host know when I arrive, either through the Airbnb messaging platform or a text message. As long as it is a medium with a time stamp.

Communication

Instantly communicate any issues or questions you have immediately. There may be times when issues arise at your home due to no fault of your own. A good example includes a coffee maker no longer working. It is best to alert the host immediately instead of leaving it for the host to find after you're gone. It only makes you seem guilty.

Time-Stamped Photos When Leaving

Let your host know when you are leaving and take time-stamped photos of the property. This protects you in case the host claims you damaged the property in any way.

It is important to remember that most Airbnb hosts are excellent. They want to continue renting their property and know a bad review could prevent anyone else from booking their property. But it is always a good idea to protect yourself because you never know!