How Do I Delete My Listing on Airbnb? A Host’s Definitive Guide

So, you’ve decided to pull the plug on your Airbnb listing. Maybe you’re selling the property, taking a break from hosting, or simply exploring other avenues. Whatever your reason, understanding the process to permanently delete your Airbnb listing is crucial. Here’s the straightforward answer:

To delete your Airbnb listing, you need to deactivate it first. Airbnb doesn’t allow immediate deletion. Deactivation removes it from search results and prevents future bookings. Once deactivated, you can then proceed to request permanent deletion. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Log into your Airbnb account. Head over to the Airbnb website or open the app.
2. Navigate to “Listings.” This is usually found in your account settings, often symbolized by a house icon or under a “Host” menu.
3. Select the Listing you wish to delete. If you have multiple listings, be absolutely sure you’re choosing the correct one. Double-check!
4. Go to “Listing Details” or “Manage Listing.” The exact wording may vary slightly depending on Airbnb’s interface updates.
5. Find the “Listing Status” section. Look for options like “Listed,” “Snoozed,” or something similar.
6. Choose “Deactivate.” You’ll likely be prompted to select a reason for deactivation. Choose the option that best suits your situation.
7. Confirm Deactivation. Airbnb will likely ask you to confirm your decision. Read the confirmation message carefully, as deactivation will impact future bookings.
8. Contact Airbnb Support to Request Permanent Deletion. Once your listing is deactivated, you will need to contact Airbnb directly to request that the listing be permanently deleted. This is usually done through the Airbnb Help Center. Explain that you want to permanently remove your listing and provide the listing number or address for verification.

Important Considerations Before Deleting:

• Future Bookings: Deactivation doesn’t automatically cancel existing bookings. You’ll need to handle these separately, either honoring them or canceling them according to Airbnb’s cancellation policies. Cancellation can incur penalties, so review the terms carefully.
• Data Retention: Even after deletion, Airbnb may retain certain data related to your listing for legal and regulatory purposes.
• Reactivation vs. Deletion: Consider whether you might want to relist the property in the future. If so, deactivation might be a better option than permanent deletion, as it preserves your listing information and reviews.
• Reviews: Once a listing is permanently deleted, all reviews associated with it are also permanently deleted. There is no way to recover them.
• Alternatives: Before deleting, explore alternatives such as snoozing your listing for a set period or adjusting your availability calendar. These options might be suitable if you only need a temporary break from hosting.
• Think it Through: Deletion is permanent. Make sure you’ve carefully considered all the implications before proceeding. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Deleting Your Airbnb Listing

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to provide you with a deeper understanding of the listing deletion process on Airbnb:

What’s the Difference Between Deactivating and Deleting a Listing on Airbnb?

Deactivating a listing essentially puts it on pause. It removes the listing from search results, preventing new bookings, but the listing information, photos, and reviews remain intact. You can reactivate it at any time. Deleting a listing, on the other hand, is a permanent action. It removes all listing information, photos, and reviews from the Airbnb platform. You can’t reactivate a deleted listing; you’d have to create a new one from scratch. Think of deactivation as a temporary pause, and deletion as a final goodbye.

Can I Delete My Listing Directly Without Deactivating It First?

No, Airbnb requires deactivation before deletion. This allows you to manage any existing bookings and gives you a chance to reconsider your decision. It also ensures that all associated transactions and data are properly processed before permanent removal. This two-step process is in place for a reason, and there’s no way to bypass it.

What Happens to My Existing Bookings When I Deactivate My Listing?

Deactivating your listing does not automatically cancel existing bookings. You are responsible for fulfilling any bookings that were confirmed before deactivation. You can either honor these bookings or cancel them. Canceling confirmed bookings can result in penalties, including fees and potential limitations on your hosting privileges. Review Airbnb’s cancellation policies carefully before making any decisions.

How Long Does it Take for Airbnb to Delete My Listing After I Request It?

The time it takes for Airbnb to permanently delete your listing after your request can vary. It typically takes a few business days to a week. The actual timeframe depends on the complexity of your account and the current workload of Airbnb’s support team. Be patient and follow up with Airbnb support if you haven’t heard back after a reasonable period.

Will I Get a Confirmation After My Listing is Deleted?

Yes, you should receive a confirmation from Airbnb once your listing has been permanently deleted. This confirmation usually comes via email. Keep this confirmation for your records. If you don’t receive confirmation within a week after contacting support, follow up with them to ensure the deletion process is complete.

Can I Recover a Deleted Listing on Airbnb?

No, deleted listings cannot be recovered. Once a listing is permanently deleted, all associated data, including photos, descriptions, and reviews, is irrevocably removed from Airbnb’s servers. If you want to host the property again in the future, you’ll need to create a brand new listing. This is why it’s crucial to carefully consider the implications before deleting your listing.

Does Deleting My Listing Delete My Airbnb Account?

No, deleting your listing does not delete your Airbnb account. Your account remains active, and you can still use it to book accommodations as a guest or create new listings in the future. If you want to delete your entire Airbnb account, you’ll need to follow a separate process, which is outlined in Airbnb’s help center.

What Happens to My Reviews When I Delete My Listing?

When you delete your Airbnb listing, all reviews associated with it are also permanently deleted. This includes both reviews you’ve received from guests and reviews you’ve left for guests who stayed at your property. This is a significant consideration, especially if you have accumulated a substantial number of positive reviews. There is no way to transfer these reviews to a new listing if you decide to host again in the future.

Can I Download My Listing Information and Photos Before Deleting It?

While Airbnb doesn’t offer a direct “download” option for all listing information, you can manually copy and paste the text from your listing description, house rules, and other relevant sections. You can also download your listing photos individually. This is a good practice to ensure you have a record of your listing information if you decide to create a new listing in the future.

Will I Still Be Charged Fees After I Delete My Listing?

You will not be charged any further fees related to the deleted listing after the deletion process is complete. However, you are still responsible for any outstanding fees or payments that were incurred before the deletion, such as cleaning fees or service fees associated with past bookings. Ensure all your financial obligations are settled before deleting your listing to avoid any complications.

Is There a Way to Temporarily Hide My Listing Without Deactivating It?

Yes, you can “snooze” your listing for a specific period without deactivating it. This temporarily removes your listing from search results, preventing new bookings, but your listing remains active and ready to be relisted when the snooze period ends. This is a convenient option if you only need a short break from hosting, such as for personal travel or property maintenance. You can set a specific date for the listing to automatically relist.

What Should I Do If I’m Having Trouble Deleting My Listing?

If you encounter any issues during the deletion process, the best course of action is to contact Airbnb’s customer support. Explain the problem you’re experiencing and provide them with all the relevant details, such as your listing ID and the steps you’ve already taken. Airbnb’s support team is equipped to assist you with technical difficulties and guide you through the deletion process. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help; they are there to assist you.