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[sunshinestate]

I’ve been hosting for a year and nothing bad has happened until today. I noticed a few decorations and toy/board games have gone missing. I’m positive it was this last guest because I take video walkthroughs and I can see the items on the shelf.

I’m going to text the guest if they can check their belongings for the missing items and I can pick them up. (I know they are still in the city for the next few weeks since they said when making the booking.)
Nothing else was bad, though things in the house were moved around and it’s somewhat messy… understandable when they have two kids. But I believe that doesn’t justify taking away items, especially decorations that are in the cupboard or up high on a shelf.

Not sure how the guest will respond, if they cooperate then that’s all good. But just in case, I would like to hear some experience and advice for this kind of situation. Should I just let this go and consider it the cost of doing business? Les than $100 total value I would say.

[RW106]

Buy cheap stuff and factor it into your pricing.

Also, if you’re new, get a separate credit card for all the stuff you buy for the rental. Everything from paper towels to furniture. It’s a tax write off and they add up quick.

Having a single credit card for your business makes tax time so much easier.

[flyupfront]

For under $100, this is a typical business expense just write off on your taxes.

[ChrisFromTheOC]

I would just let this go if you don't get a response back or end up find the items. If the value is small then consider it a cost of doing business and replace.

[mudpuppy]

Were these decorations and board games family heirlooms?

[Inspired]

You can mention it and request compensation, but is it worth it for easily replaceable items that likely have a limited lifespan? They likely will deny it and then AirBnb may step in and pay, but then you risk not getting a review or maybe a negative review. Just buy new ones. Like you said its the first time in a year this has happened and it shouldn't happen that often and it's part of the cost of doing business...on expensive items it is worth reporting.