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Regulation · Airbnb security deposit

Airbnb security deposit: what the platform forbids,
what the law allows.

Airbnb strictly regulates how hosts can request a deposit outside its platform. Yet for short-term rentals, the law generally doesn't prevent a host from requesting a security deposit from a guest. Here's what to know to stay compliant — on Airbnb and off it.

Airbnb deposit — the facts
Off-platform deposit (check, bank transfer)
Forbidden by Airbnb
Refused
Approved connected software (pro hosts)
Allowed via API
Tolerated
Security deposit on a short-term rental
No legal cap
Allowed
Compliant with Booloopay, on Airbnb or direct
Airbnb policy

What Airbnb allows (and forbids) about deposits

Airbnb precisely defines how a host can request a guarantee from guests:

No check or bank transfer requested outside the platform
No deposit request through the Resolution Center before the stay
A bank pre-authorization managed by Airbnb remains possible for some listings
A connected management software via API can collect a deposit for professional hosts
The AirCover for Hosts program remains the mechanism Airbnb puts forward

Airbnb's stated goal: guarantee payment traceability and limit abuse — even if it narrows the options for hosts who want a traditional deposit.

What the law says

For short-term rentals, the law generally doesn't forbid a deposit

Unlike a primary residence lease, which is often strictly regulated (deposit caps, refund deadlines…), a furnished tourist rental or short-term let is generally governed by freedom of contract between landlord and guest:

In most countries, no legal text prohibits a landlord from asking guests for a security deposit on a short-term rental.
There is no legal cap on the deposit amount — market practice usually sits between 20% and 30% of the total stay cost.
The rental agreement simply needs to state the deposit amount and its refund timeline.
The deposit must be returned at the end of the stay, minus any justified damages.

This freedom of contract applies to the rental itself, not necessarily to the booking channel — that's exactly where each platform's own policy, such as Airbnb's, comes in.

This information is provided for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Regulations vary from country to country: if in doubt about your situation, consult a local legal professional.

House key, coins and euro banknotes — security deposit for a short-term rental
Compliant deposit, wherever you rent
Bank vault door — secure deposit handling with Booloopay
Deposit secured with Booloopay
The Booloopay solution

Secure your deposit, on Airbnb or direct

Booloopay keeps you compliant, whatever the booking channel:

Airbnb bookings (professional hosts)
Connect Booloopay to collect your security deposit through an approved software, without breaching the platform's policy.
Direct bookings
Request your deposit through a secure payment link, fully compliant, outside any platform.
Proof file
Keep the complete history of every deposit: amount, date, status and supporting evidence in case of a dispute.

You gain compliance without losing simplicity, whatever the number of listings you manage.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Answers to the most common questions about Airbnb security deposits and the applicable regulation.

No. Airbnb forbids hosts from requesting a security check or a bank transfer outside the platform, whether before or after the booking.
Generally not: for a furnished tourist rental or short-term let, most jurisdictions don't prohibit requesting a security deposit, and its amount and terms are usually a matter of contract between landlord and guest. Rules vary by country, so check what applies to your situation.
There is no legal cap, unlike a primary residence lease. The amount is set freely, typically between 20% and 30% of the total stay cost.
As a professional host, you can use a management software connected to Airbnb via API, like Booloopay, to collect a security deposit fully compliantly.
For your direct bookings, you're not subject to Airbnb's policy: you can request your deposit through the method of your choice, in line with the law applicable to short-term rentals.
Ready to secure your deposits?

Manage your security deposit, fully compliant

On Airbnb or on direct bookings, Booloopay lets you request, track and refund your security deposit without breaching the applicable rules.

Discover how Booloopay can simplify managing your deposits with a modern, reliable solution built for every booking channel.

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