Managing security/damage deposits

Modified on Mon, 7 Oct at 3:28 PM

How Travelnest handle security deposit

Travelnest handles security deposits and damage claims for you when it comes to Airbnb. So, you don't need to collect the security deposit from guests booking through this platform.

Booking sites where you must collect security deposits

If you choose to list your property on Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo, Holidu and HomeToGo please be aware that these booking sites do not currently offer security/damage deposit processing or guest damage coverage. For these booking sites, it is your responsibility, as the property host, to collect and manage security/damage deposits from your guest. Travelnest does not collect or manage security deposits on your behalf for these booking sites.

How security deposits affect bookings

Having a large security deposit (e.g. more than 20% of the nightly stay) can put guests off from booking your property. Rather than having a large security deposit, we recommend having comprehensive insurance in place to mitigate the need for a large damage deposit.

How to add or remove a security/damage deposit to your property

1. If you'd like to add or remove a security or damage deposit from your listings, first select the property from your homepage. Then, go to the 'Pricing and Availability' section and click on 'Security Deposit and Cleaning Fee'.

2. After selecting the property for which you want to set a security deposit, simply enter the deposit amount in the box. This information will then be visible on all your property listings. Don't forget to click 'Save Changes' as shown below.

Travelnest tip: We strongly advise against setting a very high security deposit, especially for new listings. Depending on your property type and location, if you charge more than £300, your listing may not show up in booking site searches, potentially putting potential guests off to book your property.

Making a claim

To report property damage to our team (for Airbnb bookings only), please call us on 0333 666 6111 as soon as possible. To make the process faster, we recommend for you provide damage cost and evidence, such as photos, receipts which you can send to owners@travelnest.com as this information is required by the booking sites.

Other booking sites

For all other booking sites, including Booking.com, Expedia, Holidu and Vrbo their affiliate sites, the security deposit value entered in your Travelnest account will be shown at the time of booking. However, please be aware it is your responsibility to collect and release security deposit funds to your guests. We advise you to collect the security deposit within 14 days before the check-in date and release it within 14 days after the check-out date.

Travelnest will not collect or be responsible for any security deposit transactions associated with Booking.com, Expedia, Holidu, Vrbo, HomeToGo and their affiliate sites.