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Are you talking about whether this is right or wrong or the technicality that comes with it?
Technically speaking, yes. As mentioned, your house, your rules. If the guest couldn’t abide by the rules you set on your rental agreement, you gain every right to impose. Note that you are both bound to it the moment they sign the rental agreement or make a reservation. You are expected to follow what you agreed upon; otherwise, you’re defeating the purpose of the house rules and rental agreement.
Now the argument lies as to whether it is right or wrong? Well, it is dependent on a variety of reasons. And it could be subject to how your guest responds to it, too. You might want to consider the length of their stay if they are returning guests, and other contingencies, as well. But still, if you look deeper, it’s definitely right because the guest did not obey the rules you set, which is wrong. Does it make sense?
This could be one of the hardest and the easiest decisions you’ll ever have to make. But just the same, you have to consider that you might be putting your business at greater risk if you let this pass
What did your guest/s do? What house rules did he/ she/ they break?
Was it something violent towards himself or others?
What is the magnitude of the offense? Was it life-threatening? Was there any damage (regardless if it’s irreparable or not)?
If the guest had a party and caused a disruption to the neighbors or in the neighborhood. Airbnb has a global ban on all parties and events. The guest will be asked to vacate the property immediately! Guests who violate this may have their accounts removed.
Are your guest/s conducting illegal activities? Let’s say it’s not in your guidelines, but if the law states and considers an unlawful activity, it is not allowed. For example, your short-term rental becomes a den for prostitution, gambling, or any other activities that fall under illegal activities.
Hint: Keep track of how many people are going in and out of your short-term rental unit. Are those showing up registered?
Inappropriate behavior covers an extensive scope. What actions are considered inappropriate to begin with? This may include incurring too much noise or performing any form of obscenity.
This can be negotiated, and the least likely reason is that unless your guest/s decide to extend their stay and haven’t settled their dues yet. This actually could be an improbable reason.
If the guest is overstaying, since short-term rental guests do not have the same protections as tenants, it is easier to evict them.
Undoubtedly, these are all red flags, and the moment you were made aware, you should readily put your foot down. Anything that can cause stress or disturbance to your short-term rental and your other guests has to stop.
1. Prepare for the best but expect the worst. Unfortunately, you do not know your guests that well for you to arrive at this scenario. Therefore, notify your guests as soon as possible if you do cancel their reservation. As a host, there’ll be consequences, and aside from the cancelation fee, you’ll get an automatic review on your listing showing that you have canceled a stay, so be prepared.
Tip: Do a thorough background check on your guests upon booking. It pays to be vigilant. You are not prying. You are just careful.
2. The wisest and safest approach is to ask assistance from the authorities, significantly if the reasons for eviction can endanger you or your team. Do not attempt to evict the guests on your own. Contact the police. No matter how frustratedly tempted you are to evict your guest physically. Let the authorities resolve the situation. They know better how to handle this.
3. Inform your team to always be on the lookout for everything that occurs in your short-term rental. If you have a receptionist or housekeeper, tell them to keep an eagle eye. Tell them not to assume but be prepared. If they suspect something is not right, call help.
4. Remember, you have to learn how to weigh all possibilities. Not all guests are the same. Some prefer a peaceful negotiation but do not dismiss the fact that there will be a “war freak” among the pile.
Consider yourself lucky if you happen to come across guests who are decent enough to sit down and discuss issues.
But if being fortunate isn’t on your side, then having people of authority while you conduct your “kicking” is the best way to ensure your safety and protection. It can also help maintain transparency, not only for you but also for your guests; if you feel guilty that you might be crossing the line on humanity, don’t. As long as you try to be as humane as possible when you conduct any step about their actions, you are in the safe zone.
5. Maintaining a short-term rental is complicated as it is. And it’ll get more challenging if you don’t know how to contain your guests. Be firm. Convict yourself when you make decisions. And, of course, ask for help when needed.
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