I checked out normally, but now the host claims damage that "wasn't there before" and is billing me extra.
Retroactive false damage claims are a documented recurring scam pattern — check-in photo/video evidence is essentially your only defense.
What to do now
- Photograph/film the entire unit at check-in, before a claim is ever filed — including existing damage
- If a claim arrives, don't panic about the 60-day window; gather your check-in evidence first
- Dispute through the Resolution Center with your check-in evidence attached
What changes the outcome: Hosts can file a damage claim up to 60 days after checkout. Whoever has clearer, earlier-dated evidence tends to win — a claim filed without check-in photos on your side is far harder to fight.
Who owns the resolution
Airbnb mediates as a third party based only on submitted photos/video/messages — it does not inspect the unit itself, so evidence quality effectively decides the outcome.
Evidence to prepare
- Full check-in photos/video of the unit, ideally timestamped
- The host's claim details and whatever evidence they submitted
- Any messages exchanged during the stay
Turn this answer into a question about your case
Give another AI the facts it needs—not just “what should I do?”
I need practical help with a Airbnb issue. The policy question: I checked out normally, but now the host claims damage that "wasn't there before" and is billing me extra. Useful context I found: Retroactive false damage claims are a documented recurring scam pattern — check-in photo/video evidence is essentially your only defense. My specific situation: [Describe what happened, including dates and messages shown] The outcome I want: [Refund, verification, appeal, account recovery, explanation, etc.] Important constraints: [Country, deadline, booking/account status, documents already submitted, budget, or other limits] Please: 1. Identify any missing facts you need before reaching a conclusion. 2. Separate platform policy, local law, and your own inference. 3. Give me the safest next steps in priority order. 4. Use current official sources where possible and flag anything that may have changed. 5. Draft a concise message I can paste to customer support. 6. Do not invent account access, guarantees, refund rights, or legal conclusions.
Why this policy exists
Airbnb forums repeatedly document guests getting billed after checkout for pre-existing damage (scratched furniture, wall marks) the host attributes to them via the Resolution Center. Hosts can file a damage claim up to 60 days after checkout, and Airbnb only mediates by reviewing whatever photos/videos/messages both sides submit — it doesn't independently verify anything. Whoever has clearer, earlier evidence wins. Photographing/filming the entire unit — including existing damage — the moment you check in is effectively the only reliable defense; disputing after checkout makes it far harder to prove damage wasn't caused during your stay.
- Airbnb — Resolution Center — Airbnb
Last verified against the sources above on 2026-08-15. Policy and deadlines can change -- use the official support link below for the current rule.
Need to act on your account?
AMS explains the rule but cannot access your account, issue a refund or change a platform decision.