Airbnb Setup & Optimisation Course
🔒 Client lesson

Lesson: Security/Damage Deposit or Damage Protection Insurance

Module 6: OwnerRez - Setting up the Channel Manager

In short

A large refundable security deposit protects hosts on paper but can deter bookings, because guests are loss-averse and see it as money locked away. A small, fixed damage protection fee, such as OwnerRez Damage Protection, feels like a normal cost and still covers everyday accidents. Doing nothing leaves you exposed, so the right choice depends on the property's size, features and risk.

What this lesson covers

  • Why This Matters
  • The Security Deposit Approach
  • The Damage Protection Insurance Approach
  • The Beauty of OwnerRez
  • Sales Psychology and Language Framing
  • The “Do Nothing” Approach
  • The Psychology of “Refundable” vs. “Non-Refundable” vs. “Nothing”
  • What the platforms already cover, and what they don’t
  • How a card hold actually works
  • How We Protect Skye’s Beach House
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The full lesson is for clients

Clients get every step, the live walkthrough videos and our exact settings and templates from Skye’s Beach House.

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Questions people ask

Do security deposits put Airbnb guests off booking?

They can. Even when refundable, a large deposit feels like money at risk, and some guests will choose another property to avoid it.

What is OwnerRez Damage Protection?

It is an optional add-on that covers accidental damage on each booking for a per-booking fee, with several coverage tiers. You choose which listings and channels it applies to.

What should I do if a guest damages my Airbnb?

Photograph the damage the same day, contact the guest calmly and lodge a claim promptly. On Airbnb, claims must be started within 14 days of check-out and before the next guest checks in.

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