10 Essential Vrbo Rules Every Guest and Host Must Know
Table of Contents
- Are There Hidden Cameras in Vrbo?
- How Much Does an Average Vrbo Host Make?
- Can a Vrbo Host Cancel for No Reason?
- Does Vrbo Penalize Hosts for Cancellation?
- What Happens if the Vrbo Owner Doesn't Respond?
- Can Vrbo Hosts Delete Bad Reviews?
- How Does Vrbo Protect Hosts?
- What Is the Strict Cancellation Policy for Vrbo?
- How to File a Complaint Against a Vrbo Host?
- Does Vrbo Allow Cancellations?
How Much Does an Average Vrbo Host Make?
Vrbo host earnings vary widely depending on factors like property location, size, and seasonality. Vrbo hosts typically earn between $10,000 and $30,000 per year on average, though upscale properties located in highly sought-after destinations have the potential to generate much higher income. To increase profitability, consider mastering Vrbo's fees and requirements to avoid hidden costs and maximize bookings.
Can a Vrbo Host Cancel for No Reason?
Technically, yes — a Vrbo host can cancel a reservation, but not without consequences. Vrbo expects hosts to honor bookings and only cancel in cases of emergency or valid circumstances. Cancelling without justification can damage the host’s reputation and standing on the platform.
Does Vrbo Penalize Hosts for Cancellation?
Yes, Vrbo imposes penalties for host cancellations. These can include:
- Financial penalties
- Temporary or permanent removal of the listing
- Loss of "Premier Host" status
- Lower search rankings
Before listing, it’s a good idea to understand the platform’s expectations by reviewing an overview of Vrbo host requirements.
What Happens if the Vrbo Owner Doesn't Respond?
If a host is unresponsive, Vrbo encourages guests to contact customer support. If the host doesn’t confirm a booking or respond in a timely manner, Vrbo may cancel the reservation and assist in rebooking or refunding the guest. In cases of booked stays where the host is unresponsive, Vrbo's Book with Confidence Guarantee may offer support or alternative accommodations.
Can Vrbo Hosts Delete Bad Reviews?
No, hosts cannot delete guest reviews. However, they can respond to them publicly. Vrbo allows the removal of reviews only if they violate content guidelines, such as containing hate speech, private information, or irrelevant content. Otherwise, unfavorable reviews stay publicly visible to maintain transparency.
How Does Vrbo Protect Hosts?
Vrbo offers several protections for hosts, including:
- Liability Insurance: Up to $1 million in liability coverage per booking
- Damage Protection: Optional damage protection plans to cover guest-related damages
- Security Deposits: Hosts can set a refundable deposit to cover potential damages
- 24/7 Customer Support: Assistance in dealing with disputes or emergencies
If you’re new to hosting, be sure to follow this step-by-step checklist for meeting Vrbo's hosting requirements.
What Is the Strict Cancellation Policy for Vrbo?
Vrbo offers multiple cancellation policies. The Strict policy includes:
- Guests who cancel at least 60 days before check-in are eligible for a 50% refund.
- No refund for cancellations within 60 days of check-in
This policy offers strong protection for hosts but may deter some travelers looking for flexibility.
How to File a Complaint Against a Vrbo Host?
Guests can file a complaint directly through Vrbo via:
- Their reservation dashboard
- Vrbo’s customer service phone number
- Email support or live chat
Include all relevant details (photos, messages, receipts) to help Vrbo investigate. For serious issues (e.g., fraud, safety concerns), local authorities may also be involved.
Does Vrbo Allow Cancellations?
Yes, Vrbo allows cancellations by both hosts and guests, but with terms. The outcome depends on:
- The cancellation policy selected by the host
- Timing of the cancellation
- Reason for cancellation
To learn how to properly set up your listing with the optimal settings, follow this step-by-step guide to listing your property on Vrbo.
Final Thoughts: Vrbo provides a platform that balances the interests of both guests and hosts through clearly defined rules and policies. Understanding these can help ensure a smooth experience and minimize conflicts. Whether you're booking your next vacation or listing your property, staying informed about Vrbo’s regulations is key to maximizing success and safety on the platform.