Mastering the Art of the Airbnb Review: A Guide for Guests and Hosts

So, you’ve just wrapped up a fantastic (or perhaps not-so-fantastic) Airbnb stay. Now, it’s time to pay it forward and leave a review. But how exactly do you navigate the Airbnb review system like a pro? It’s simpler than you think.

Leaving a review on Airbnb involves a straightforward process, but mastering the art of writing a helpful and informative review requires a bit more finesse. Here’s the essential breakdown:

1. Timing is Key: Airbnb operates on a two-way blind review system. This means you have 14 days after checkout to submit your review. The host also has 14 days to review you, and neither of you can see the other’s review until both are submitted or the 14-day window closes.
2. Access the Review Portal: Log into your Airbnb account and navigate to your “Trips” section. Locate the stay you wish to review. You should see a prompt that says something like “Review [Host’s Name] and [Property Name]”. Click on that. Alternatively, Airbnb will likely send you an email reminder with a direct link to the review page.
3. The Star Rating: First, you’ll be asked to provide an overall star rating (1 to 5 stars). This is your immediate, gut-reaction score.
4. Category Ratings: Next, you’ll rate specific categories. These usually include Accuracy, Communication, Cleanliness, Location, Check-in, and Value. Each category is also rated on a 5-star scale. Be honest and consider your experience in each area.
5. The Written Review: This is the meat of your review. Here, you can elaborate on your experience. Airbnb will usually prompt you with questions such as “What did you love?” or “How could the host improve?”. Be specific, constructive, and fair. Focus on facts and avoid emotional language.
6. Private Feedback: Airbnb also offers a section for private feedback to the host. This is your chance to mention issues that might not warrant a public airing but are important for the host to address. Things like a slightly wobbly table or a minor Wi-Fi glitch are perfect for private feedback.
7. Submitting the Review: Once you are satisfied with your ratings and written review, simply click the “Submit” button. Remember, once submitted, you generally cannot edit your review.

That’s the core process. But to truly excel at Airbnb reviews, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions.

Airbnb Review FAQs: Your Comprehensive Guide

How do I write a good Airbnb review?

A “good” review is helpful, honest, and specific. Avoid vague statements like “It was great!” Instead, highlight particular aspects you enjoyed (e.g., “The kitchen was incredibly well-equipped, making it easy to cook meals”). Mention any issues you encountered constructively (“The Wi-Fi was a bit spotty in the bedroom, but worked perfectly in the living room”). Keep it balanced and fair. Consider the perspective of future guests and the host. Did the listing accurately represent the property? Did the host go above and beyond? Did you have any unforeseen challenges?

Can I edit my Airbnb review after submitting it?

Unfortunately, no, you typically cannot edit your Airbnb review once it’s submitted. This is why it’s crucial to take your time and carefully proofread your review before clicking “Submit.” There are rare exceptions, such as if Airbnb determines that the review violates their content policies, but generally, what’s written is written.

What happens if I don’t leave a review on Airbnb?

Nothing “bad” happens to you if you don’t leave a review. However, you’ll miss the opportunity to provide valuable feedback to the host and help future guests make informed decisions. Furthermore, the host’s review of you as a guest will still be published after the 14-day window, regardless of whether you left a review for them. Participating in the review system strengthens the Airbnb community.

What happens if a host doesn’t leave me a review on Airbnb?

Similar to the above, nothing directly “happens.” After the 14-day review period expires, the option to leave a review disappears. The host’s failure to review you doesn’t negatively impact your Airbnb account, but it does mean you won’t have their feedback on your profile for future hosts to see.

How long do Airbnb reviews stay visible?

Airbnb reviews remain visible on the host’s and guest’s profiles indefinitely. They are a permanent record of past stays and interactions.

Can I see a host’s reviews of other guests?

No. Airbnb keeps reviews private to the reviewer (the host) and the reviewee (the guest). You can only see reviews written about a particular host or guest, not reviews written by them about others.

What if I had a terrible experience? How do I write a negative review constructively?

Even if your experience was less than ideal, focus on facts and avoid personal attacks. Be specific about what went wrong (e.g., “The listing stated there was air conditioning, but it was broken during my entire stay”). Clearly state how the issue impacted your experience. Before posting, consider if the issue was within the host’s control. Did you contact the host during your stay to try and resolve the issue? Finally, consider contacting Airbnb support before posting a scathing review, as they may be able to mediate a resolution.

What if I disagree with a review a host left for me?

Unfortunately, you can’t directly dispute or remove a review simply because you disagree with it. However, you have two options:

1. Public Response: You can write a public response to the review. This will appear below the host’s review on your profile. Keep your response professional and factual. Use it as an opportunity to clarify your perspective or address any inaccuracies.
2. Contact Airbnb Support: If you believe the review violates Airbnb’s content policies (e.g., it’s discriminatory, defamatory, or contains personal information), you can contact Airbnb Support. They will investigate and determine if the review should be removed.

What are Airbnb’s review guidelines? What can’t I include in a review?

Airbnb has strict content policies that govern reviews. You cannot include:

• Personal information: Addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, etc.
• Discriminatory content: Based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, etc.
• Defamatory content: False statements that harm someone’s reputation.
• Threats or harassment: Abusive or intimidating language.
• Irrelevant content: Information that is not related to the stay.
• Content that violates someone else’s privacy.
• Promotional content: Advertising or spam.

Can a host require me to leave a positive review?

No. It is against Airbnb’s policies for a host to pressure or incentivize guests to leave positive reviews. Reviews must be honest and unbiased. If a host attempts to manipulate the review process, report them to Airbnb Support.

How do superhosts view reviews?

Superhosts often consider reviews as vital feedback and use them to improve their services and properties. Reviews help them maintain their Superhost status, which relies on high ratings and positive guest experiences.

How do I write a review as a host?

Writing a review as a host follows the same general principles as writing a guest review. Be honest, specific, and respectful. Focus on the guest’s behavior during their stay. Were they respectful of your property? Did they follow house rules? Did they communicate effectively? Remember that your review helps other hosts decide whether to accept future bookings from this guest. If you encountered any significant problems, be factual and avoid emotional language.