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The Most Common Airbnb Guest Complaints & How to Avoid Them

Writer: Cambridge StaysCambridge Stays

Guest complaints can lead to negative reviews, lower bookings, and lost revenue.

The key to maintaining a high rating and Superhost status is anticipating issues before they happen. This guide covers the most common Airbnb guest complaints and how to prevent them to ensure a seamless guest experience.

1. Cleanliness Issues

Common Complaints:

  • Dust, dirty bathrooms, or unclean linens.

  • Leftover food or trash from previous guests.

  • Unpleasant odors in the property.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Hire professional cleaners with a detailed cleaning checklist.

✅ Use a vacuum-sealed bedding system to ensure fresh linens for every stay.

✅ Provide guests with cleaning supplies (wipes, air fresheners) for long stays.

✅ Implement spot-check inspections before guest check-in.

2. Check-In Problems

Common Complaints:

  • Difficulty finding the property.

  • Key not in the lockbox or smart lock malfunctioning.

  • Confusing instructions or last-minute changes.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Use self-check-in with a smart lock for a seamless arrival.

✅ Provide a clear, step-by-step check-in guide with photos.

✅ Send an automated message 24 hours before check-in with entry details.

✅ Have a backup key option (local key exchange or a lockbox).

3. WiFi & Connectivity Issues

Common Complaints:

  • Weak or slow WiFi.

  • WiFi password hard to find or incorrect.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Invest in high-speed broadband (essential for business travelers).

✅ Place the WiFi router in a central location to maximize coverage.

✅ Print the WiFi network & password on a welcome card.

✅ Consider providing a backup mobile hotspot for emergencies.

4. Noise Complaints

Common Complaints:

  • Noisy neighbors or street traffic.

  • Guests complaining about previous renters making noise.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Use noise monitoring devices like Minut or NoiseAware (alerts you but doesn’t record).

✅ Provide white noise machines or earplugs for light sleepers.

✅ Set house rules about quiet hours and communicate them clearly.

✅ If in a shared building, inform neighbors about your Airbnb to manage expectations.

5. Temperature & Comfort Issues

Common Complaints:

  • Property is too hot or too cold.

  • Uncomfortable or worn-out bedding.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Install smart thermostats (Nest, Ecobee) for temperature control.

✅ Provide extra blankets and fans for guest comfort.

✅ Use high-quality mattresses, pillows, and blackout curtains for better sleep.

6. Misleading Listings

Common Complaints:

  • Photos don’t match reality.

  • Missing amenities that were promised.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Use professional, up-to-date photos of your Airbnb.

✅ Be honest in descriptions (e.g., “Compact but cozy studio” instead of “Spacious apartment”).

✅ Double-check your amenities list to ensure accuracy.

7. Poor Communication

Common Complaints:

  • Host is slow to respond to messages.

  • Lack of local recommendations or emergency contact.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Use automated messaging to send timely responses.

✅ Offer a guest handbook with local recommendations and troubleshooting tips.

✅ Have a backup contact (co-host or property manager) available 24/7.

8. Maintenance & Functionality Issues

Common Complaints:

  • Broken appliances (TV, washing machine, air conditioning).

  • Plumbing issues or no hot water.

  • Light bulbs burned out.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Schedule regular maintenance checks for all appliances.

✅ Keep a stock of essential spare parts (light bulbs, batteries, fuses).

✅ Have a trusted handyman or property manager on call for urgent repairs.

9. Security Concerns

Common Complaints:

  • Doors or windows don’t lock properly.

  • Guests feel unsafe in the neighborhood.

How to Avoid Them:

✅ Install secure deadbolts and smart locks on all doors.

✅ Ensure windows lock properly and provide security cameras (outside only).

✅ If in a shared building, inform guests about security measures in place.

10. Why a Professional Airbnb Management Company Can Help Prevent Complaints

How Professional Management Prevents Complaints:

✅ Regular cleaning & maintenance checks ensure top-notch guest experiences.

✅ 24/7 guest support to handle issues before they escalate.

✅ Listing optimization & guest communication to prevent misunderstandings.

How Cambridge Stays Helps Airbnb Hosts:

At Cambridge Stays, we specialize in hassle-free Airbnb management, ensuring:

  • Fewer guest complaints with proactive solutions.

  • Seamless guest experiences for better reviews and more bookings.

  • Optimized pricing & marketing to maximize your revenue.


Preventing guest complaints leads to higher ratings, more bookings, and increased revenue.

With proactive hosting and professional management, you can ensure a seamless guest experience and Superhost status.

For landlords who want stress-free hosting with fewer guest issues, Cambridge Stays offers full-service property management.

🚀 Want stress-free hosting with fewer guest issues? Let us manage your Airbnb for you!

📞 Contact Cambridge Stays today to ensure 5-star guest experiences!

 
 
 

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