I just started using Airbnb as a guest (previously I had managed a hostel which I used to book dorm beds). I stayed four places for 1-4 nights each, all of which went well, with good reviews all around. Yesterday I tried to do another reservation request. Instead of it going through, though, I immediately received this email:
Subject: Reservation [redacted] requires additional review
Hi [redacted] We monitor all reservations and user interactions on Airbnb very closely and always have the best interests of our community in mind. In an effort to support positive experiences in our community, occasionally reservations require additional review. While we review this reservation, your account has been temporarily disabled from booking additional reservations. Any accepted reservations will not be affected. Rest assured, we are working as quickly as possible to get this resolved for you. You still have access to all other functions on your account. We truly apologize for this inconvenience, but appreciate your understanding and support in our mission of creating a safe, trusted marketplace.
Regards,
The Airbnb Team
I can still log into my Airbnb account, but nowhere can I find anything about being disabled. Also, there is no evidence of my reservation request. So, I’m dropped into a black hole. No clue what kinds of things might trigger a disabled account, or when they might complete their “required additional review” and whether I’ll receive details about what went into the review. In the meantime, I’m travelling in a city with plenty of available options. I thought it would be reasonable to not plan it all weeks ahead, like the guests I was happy to welcome as a host.
Follow-up: Approaching a month after the being disabled, I’ve had exactly one generic message from Airbnb saying my account has been “forwarded to the correct department”. My additional messages to Airbnb have gotten no responses.