Airbnb evidence rules 2026: what counts as proof
Which evidence Airbnb asks for in a damage claim, and how to have it ready.
Airbnb requires true evidence that is not altered in any way, including by AI. Upload only original photos and record the condition before the guest arrives.
What evidence does Airbnb ask for?
The terms name this evidence, among other things. The more complete it is, the easier your request is to check.
- 1
Time and cause
When, how and where the damage happened.
- 2
Photos and videos
Unedited captures, not altered by AI either.
- 3
Receipts
Proof of purchase and repair for the damaged items.
- 4
Inventory
A list of the items with purchase date and condition.
- 5
Repair estimates
What repair or replacement is expected to cost.
- 6
Proof of ownership
Evidence that the item belongs to you.
Already have damage?
Guest damaged something?
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Which rules apply
Under Airbnb's Host Damage Protection Terms (version of 1 August 2026), evidence must be true and unaltered; if Airbnb cannot verify it, it may ask for more documents or deny the request. You ask the guest to pay within 14 days of checkout and file the request to Airbnb within 30 days.
General information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does Airbnb require as evidence in 2026?
Photos, invoices and documents must be true and accurate and not doctored or falsified in any way, including by AI. The evidence includes the time and cause of the damage, repair estimates and proof of ownership.
Can I still edit my damage photos?
Better not. The terms require documents that are not altered in any way; if Airbnb cannot verify a photo, it may ask for more documents or deny the request.
Which deadlines apply to the damage claim?
You ask the guest to pay within 14 days of checkout, for example through the Resolution Center. If the guest does not pay, you file the request to Airbnb within 30 days of checkout, with evidence.
Also in this topic: Bad Airbnb review after a damage claim: what to doAirbnb guest disputes the damage: which evidence countsAirbnb Security Deposit & Damage: What Protects HostsAI-edited photos: why your Airbnb claim can fail on them
Next guest arriving soon?
Scan the flat before check-in and after check-out. Then a damage claim rests on a before and after comparison.
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