Whether you’re planning a summer getaway, a family vacation, or a weekend road trip, booking short-term accommodation through platforms like Airbnb can be a convenient option. Before you click “book now,” it’s important to understand what protections may or may not be available to you.
Booking an Airbnb? Here’s what to know
While Airbnb can be a great way to find unique places to stay, taking a few extra steps before booking can help you avoid unexpected issues and make your trip a little smoother.
1. Read the cancellation policy carefully
Not all listings have the same cancellation terms. Some offer flexible refunds, while others may only provide a partial refund or none at all if your plans change.
Before booking, take a moment to review:
- The host’s cancellation policy
- Any service fees that may not be refundable
- Deadlines for cancelling and receiving a refund
2. Research the listing
A listing may look great in photos, but it’s a good idea to dig a little deeper. Look for:
- Recent reviews from other guests
- Consistent ratings over time
- Clear and detailed descriptions
- Photos that accurately show the space
Be cautious if a listing has very few reviews or if the information provided seems incomplete.
3. Communicate through the platform
Make sure your conversations stay within Airbnb’s messaging system. Keeping communication on the platform creates a record of what was discussed and can be helpful if there is a dispute later.
4. Be careful with payment requests
Never send money outside the booking platform. If a host asks you to pay by e-transfer, wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or another method outside the platform, consider it a red flag. Using the platform’s payment system may provide additional safeguards if something goes wrong.
5. Pay with a credit card if possible
A credit card may provide additional options if you need to dispute a charge or seek a refund.
Before you travel, it’s worth reviewing your credit card’s protections and understanding what may be covered.
7. Confirm important details before you arrive
A few days before your trip, confirm:
- Check-in instructions
- The address of the property
- Parking information
- Contact information for the host
Did you know booking with a travel agent offers extra protection?
Ensure that your travel plans are protected by booking with a licensed BC travel agent. The Travel Assurance Fund (TAF) is a possible source of compensation if you don’t get the travel services you bought and is only available if you booked with a licensed agent or wholesaler.
Where to go for more information
We can’t help with disputes involving Airbnb’s under the laws we oversee. We’re sharing this information purely for educational purposes.
We’re responsible for licensing all BC travel agents and enforcing certain rules for travel agencies. The law speaks to your cancellation rights in certain situations. You can learn more about your cancellation rights for travel bookings on our website.
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About Consumer Protection BC
We are not-for-profit regulator responsible for overseeing certain industries and specific consumer transactions in British Columbia. If your concern is captured under the laws we enforce, we will use the tools at our disposal to assist you. If we can’t help you directly, we will try to offer a referral to a relevant organization, if one exists. Other times, court or legal assistance may be the best option. Explore our website at www.consumerprotectionbc.ca.
Please note information on our website is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For details, read our website disclaimer.