Airbnb Guest Damage, Weak Payouts, and OTA Claims: How to Actually Get Paid When They Trash Your Place

Vacation Home Help

In this episode of Vacation Rentals with John, we dive deep into one of the most frustrating parts of running a short-term rental business: getting paid for guest damages.

We’re talking about AirCover, Booking.com, and VRBO — the platforms that promise protection but often leave you covering the bill. I break down:

• Why your payout is often only 20–50% of the actual damage
• Why cleaning fees, unauthorized pet charges, and late checkout penalties rarely get covered
• What documentation you must collect (and when)
• The real story of a guest swapping out TVs and STILL not getting reimbursed
• Step-by-step action plan to protect your profit when the platforms fail you

If your wear and tear costs are higher than your profits, you're not in business — you're bleeding cash. Learn how to fight back smart, protect your margins, and run a tighter operation.

Quick asks to help grow the show and community:

✅ Like my Facebook page → facebook.com/thejohnandrew — I drop free tips and content there every week. 📩 Want listing feedback? Email me your Airbnb link → [email protected] — I’ll personally check it out and offer advice.

Thanks for listening. If this episode helped you, please rate and review the show — it helps more hosts discover it. Keep pushing forward.

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