Inventory missing after a stay: what the guest pays for
How to evidence missing items and put the right figure on them.
The guest is liable for items taken or broken, if you can show what was there before. Claim the depreciated value of each item, not the new price.
What do you need when something is missing?
With missing items there is no damage to photograph. What counts is the inventory before the stay.
- 1
Inventory list
A list of every item, from dishes and towels to appliances.
- 2
Photos of the items
Dated photos show what was really there, because a list alone can be added to at any time.
- 3
List each item
List every missing or broken item separately.
- 4
Depreciated value
A five-year-old pan is not replaced at the new price.
- 5
Small items add up
Six glasses, two towels and a hairdryer quickly come to three figures.
- 6
No consumables
Coffee or washing-up liquid do not belong in the claim.
Already have damage?
Guest damaged something?
Don't just leave the photos in your camera roll. BildProof helps you document the damage, add supporting evidence and create an organised, sealed report for your claim.
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Which rules apply
Under Airbnb's Host Damage Protection Terms (version of 1 August 2026) the evidence includes an inventory with purchase date and condition, receipts and proof of ownership, and your request to the guest must be made within 14 days of checkout. The guest owes compensation under §§ 280, 249 BGB.
General information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is my inventory list enough as evidence?
Rarely, because a list can be added to at any time. It becomes convincing with dated photos that show the items.
What can I claim for a broken wine glass?
The depreciated value of the used glass, not the price of a new one. List each item separately.
What evidence does Airbnb want for missing items?
Among other things, receipts, photos or videos, an inventory with purchase date and condition, and proof of ownership. Consumables are excluded unless they were clearly marked as unavailable to the guest.
Also in this topic: Kaution for a holiday flat: how much may you charge?Mattress stains from guests: what does the guest pay?Furniture damaged by a guest: repair or replacement?Party damage in a holiday flat: who is liable for what?
Next guest arriving soon?
Scan the flat before check-in and after check-out, including cupboards, dishes and appliances. Then a claim for missing items rests on a comparison.
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