Airbnb have already waived cancellation fees for bookings, now seems like they're helping out hosts too :)
Airbnb will pay hosts 25 per cent of what they would typically be due if someone booked between March 14 and May 31 cancels the stay due to COVID-19.
Airbnb on Monday said it is devoting US$250 million to help would-be hosts survive financial losses from refunds given to guests who cancelled travel plans due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The move came as an olive branch of sorts extended to Airbnb hosts blindsided by a the home-sharing platform's decision several weeks ago to give full refunds to guests who cancelled reservations in order to stay home, as health officials and governments have urged.
Airbnb will pay hosts 25 per cent of what they would typically be due if someone booked between March 14 and May 31 cancels the stay due to COVID-19.
Travelers who cancel Airbnb reservations made for that period are promised complete refunds or credit for future stays.
"We know this is just a little bit, but a little bit can go a long way at this time," a seemingly contrite Mr Chesky said while discussing Airbnb's latest steps in a live video stream from his home.
When a guest cancels an accommodation reservation due to a COVID-19 related circumstance, with a check-in between March 14 and May 31, we will pay you 25% of what you would normally receive through your cancellation policy. This applies retroactively to all COVID-19 related cancellations during this period. This cost will be covered entirely by Airbnb. These payments will begin to be issued in April. Guests with reservations booked on or before March 14 will still be able to cancel and receive a standard refund or travel credit equivalent for 100% of what they paid. You can go to airbnb.com/250msupport for more details.
Hope everyone is safe :)
Much better than what Homeaway have offered so far, which is basically no customer service at all.