Airbnb Host Listing Suspension or Paused? Here's What to Do

Dealing with an Airbnb listing suspension or pause can be overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what went wrong.

Whether it’s an issue with poor guest review ratings, too many cancellations or a potential violation of Airbnb's terms, it’s important to understand the process and take the appropriate action to resolve the issue.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know, from addressing suspended listings to appealing decisions and even tackling incorrect descriptions or unfair reviews.

Why Was My Airbnb Listing Suspended?

Airbnb has strict standards to ensure that all host accounts and listings deliver a positive guest experience and align with Airbnb's policies.

When your Airbnb listing is suspended, it’s usually due to performance issues or violations of the platform's rules.

Common reasons for listing suspensions

• Low review ratings: Consistently poor feedback from guests can result in an initial suspension. Airbnb expects hosts to maintain high standards for the guest experience.

• Host response time: Slow replies to inquiries impact the Airbnb platform’s reliability. A suspended Airbnb listing may result if your response time is significantly delayed.

• Too many cancellations: Frequent cancellations can make guests perceive you as unreliable, reducing their trust in your listing.

• Policy violations: Misleading descriptions, deceptive information or unsafe practices can lead to a temporary suspension or in severe cases, a permanent ban.

Airbnb typically notifies you of the suspension, explaining the reasons and outlining steps to resolve the issue. Acting quickly and professionally is crucial to avoid a permanent ban.

The Risks of Being Permanently Banned

Source: Pricelabs

While most listing suspensions are temporary, repeated or severe violations can result in your Airbnb account being permanently banned.

This outcome is serious and impacts your ability to host on Airbnb or similar platforms. Red flags that could lead to a ban:

• Bottom-tier Airbnb review ratings: Falling into the lowest 1% of host performance.

• Serious complaints: Guest accusations about safety issues or fraudulent content.

• Repeated violations: Consistently failing to adhere to Airbnb's terms or local regulations.

If banned, Airbnb will allow you to honor existing reservations for the next two months. Any new bookings beyond that will be cancelled and Airbnb will assist guests in finding alternative options.

Plus, suspensions come in different levels. Minor issues might only lead to a short, 5-day suspension.

Your existing bookings are safe during this time, giving you a chance to sort things out and get back on track.

What is the Airbnb Appeals Process?

If you believe your Airbnb listing has been unfairly restricted, you can initiate an appeals process. This gives you the chance to contest the decision and potentially restore access to your listing.

Steps to submit an Appeal

• Log into your Airbnb account: Ensure you’re logged in before starting the process.

• Access the appeals form: You can find this form in your account settings under "Support."

• Gather necessary details:

  • Name of the suspended listing.

  • Reservation codes tied to reviews or complaints related to the issue.

  • Specific review violations you believe apply, with clear reasoning.

• Submit your appeal: Attach any evidence, such as communication logs, photos or receipts, that supports your case.

What to Do if Your Account is Suspended for an Incorrect Description

A common reason for account suspension is a flagged listing due to an inaccurate or misleading description. If this happens:

• Contact Airbnb support: Reach out via email or Airbnb’s support chat to explain your side. Clearly describe why you believe the listing is accurate or how you plan to fix the issue.

• Show evidence: Provide clear photos, video tours or guest reviews that support your claims.

• Be patient: Airbnb conducts detailed investigations, which can take time or a few weeks. While you wait, assess your other listings to ensure compliance.

Once the issue is resolved, your account may be reinstated. Regularly reviewing and updating your listing details can help prevent future policy violations.

What Are ‘Review Violations’ You Can Contest?

Not all negative feedback is fair. Airbnb has strict policies and if a comment violates these rules, you can appeal to have it removed.

Types of Review Violations

• Content policy violations: Reviews containing hate speech, threats, explicit language or false claims about your listing or amenities.

• Irrelevant content: Complaints unrelated to the stay, like noise from a neighbor or bad weather.

• Biased or fraudulent content: Fake reviews from competitors or extortion attempts for refunds or perks.

What To Do When Your Airbnb Listing Is Suspended

Focus on upcoming reservations

Current accepted reservations can proceed as planned, so take this opportunity to showcase the high-quality experience offered and prove the listing's value.

Keep in touch with guests, make sure their stay is smooth and fix any problems quickly. Happy guests will help boost your reputation while you work through the suspension.

Analyze guest complaints

Use this downtime to evaluate your reviews. Look for patterns in complaints or suggestions that highlight areas for improvement, such as cleanliness, amenities or communication.

Addressing these issues can strengthen your listing and reduce the risk of future listing suspensions.

Appeal the suspension (if necessary)

Gather your listing name, reservation codes and a solid reason for the appeal. Submit everything via the Appeals form on your Airbnb account.

Appeals are more successful if the issue involves review policy violations rather than single complaints or unfair reviews.

Pro Tips to Recover and Prevent Future Suspensions

Recovering from a suspension is possible with a thoughtful approach. Follow these tips to get back on track and avoid future issues:

• Diversify your listings: Don’t rely on just one platform. Use a reliable channel manager or all-in-one vacation rental software like Hostaway.

  This allows you to list your property across multiple platforms, such as Booking.com and VRBO. By doing so, you reduce your dependence on Airbnb.

  It also keeps your bookings flowing smoothly, even if one channel faces issues. Plus, having your listing on multiple platforms can help improve its visibility in search results.

• Review suspension notices thoroughly: Understand exactly why you were suspended and take steps to address the problem.

• Addressing guest complaints: Address concerns highlighted in traveler feedback and make sure your property meets all standards.

• Stay persistent: Keep reaching out to Airbnb through various channels — email, social media and chat. Persistence pays off.

• Consider a fresh start: Sometimes, creating a new account is the quickest route back. Just make sure your new listing looks distinct from the old.

• Document everything: Keep records of all guest interactions, complaints and resolutions. Detailed documentation can strengthen your case during disputes or appeals.

• Craft a strong appeal: Be professional and highlight the steps you’ve taken to improve. Attach evidence to support your claims.

• Take preventive measures: Avoid future issues by staying on top of Airbnb's policies and guidelines.

Turning Setbacks Into Opportunities

Suspensions are temporary challenges, not the end of your hosting journey.

By taking appropriate action, improving your listings and diversifying your platforms, you can overcome these setbacks, emerge stronger and expand your presence on other platforms.

Hosting is about creating memorable guest experiences and every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow.

FAQs

1. How long does an Airbnb suspension last?

Suspension durations depend on the issue. Minor issues may lead to a five-day suspension, while major violations can result in longer pauses or permanent bans.

2. What should I do if I get a bad review?

Respond professionally and use it as an opportunity to improve. If it violates Airbnb’s policies, such as being part of competitor reviews, you can appeal for its removal.

3. Can I honor bookings if my account is suspended?

Yes, you can host guests with existing reservations for up to two months. New bookings, however, will be paused.

4. What usually causes Airbnb bans?

Bans often result from repeated policy violations, unresolved complaints or consistently low Airbnb ratings.

5. What steps should I take after my Airbnb listing is suspended?

Focus on existing bookings, analyze feedback and present a clear appeal if necessary. Maintain future compliance with Airbnb platform guidelines to avoid further suspensions.