Air Bnb deletes reviews

[Rodney Sums]

I recently used Air Bnb for the first time as a guest. Long story short there was an issue the host was not helpful with.  I had to contact customer service to get some expenses refunded. 

Air Bnb ASKED ME to submit a review. I  noted my experience in a balanced fashion summarizing the bad experience but including positive feedback about the host and the property.

I got a msg my public review was deleted because it "didn’t have enough relevant information to help the Airbnb community make informed booking decisions." It became clear why I saw no mention of the strong wet wood/mildew smell of the room and building from other reviewers. 

The most disappointing part is I really wanted to like this service. I wanted to support other landlords. I can appreciate there are those who weaponize reviews or are obnoxiously critical. Knowing Air BnB deletes feedback gives me concern about the veracity of the reviews available when considering a property to rent. I was planning to make a booking at the end of the month.  Not anymore.

As hosts, do you like this practice?  Do you feel it is helpful?

[Leslie Anne Morris]

We’ve successfully had reviews removed. One instance recently was when a guest booked for someone else and basically lied on our rental application and then different people showed up. I believe it was a mom booking for her son. She left a negative review when we kept part of the security deposit for reasons I won’t get into on here. In the messages she incriminated herself. First time Airbnb was helpful