Is Your Airbnb Listing Suspended or Paused? Here's What to Do

Dealing with an Airbnb listing suspension or pause can be overwhelming, especially when you're unsure what went wrong.

Whether it's an issue with poor guest review ratings, too many cancellations or a potential violation of Airbnb's terms, it's important to understand the process and take the appropriate action to resolve the issue.

Let's walk through everything you need to know, from addressing suspended listings to appealing decisions and even tackling descriptions that are incorrect or unfair reviews.

Why Was My Airbnb Listing Suspended?

Airbnb has strict standards to ensure that all host accounts and listings deliver a positive guest experience and align with Airbnb's policies.

Suspensions typically result from performance issues, communication lapses or violations of Airbnb’s terms of service.

Common reasons for Airbnb listing suspensions

Low review ratings

Consistently poor feedback from guests can result in an initial suspension. Airbnb expects hosts to uphold high service standards for the guest experience.

Slow host response time

Slow replies to guest inquiries impact the Airbnb platform's reliability. A suspended Airbnb listing may result if your response time is significantly delayed.

Too many cancellations

Frequent cancellations can make guests perceive the Airbnb host as being unreliable, reducing their trust in the listing.

Violations of Airbnb policy

Misleading descriptions, deceptive information or unsafe practices can lead to a temporary suspension or, in severe cases, a permanent ban.

Listing fees outside Airbnb fields

Charging for cleaning, pets or resort fees anywhere except Airbnb's official fee input fields is now a violation.

Sharing contact information

Sharing phone numbers, emails or links to direct booking platforms in your listing or guest communication can trigger automatic suspension.

Promoting off-platform reservations

Mentioning alternative websites or encouraging guests to book elsewhere for an upcoming reservation is strictly prohibited.

AI-triggered violations

Airbnb’s upgraded AI now flags content in messages, listings or replies that indicate policy breaches — sometimes even if unintentional.

Airbnb typically notifies hosts of their suspension via email or in-app message, detailing the reason and steps to resolve the issue. Acting quickly and professionally can help you avoid further consequences.

The best way is to avoid a suspension of your Airbnb host account altogether. Stay vigilant. Airbnb’s automated moderation systems are faster and less forgiving than before.

The Risks of Being Permanently Banned

Source: Pricelabs

While most listing suspensions are temporary, repeated or severe violations can result in your Airbnb account being permanently banned.

This outcome is serious and impacts your ability to host on Airbnb or similar platforms.

Red flags that can lead to a permanent ban

• Bottom-tier Airbnb review ratings: Falling into the lowest 1% of Airbnb host performance.

• Serious complaints: Guest accusations about safety issues or fraudulent content.

• Repeated violations: Consistently failing to adhere to Airbnb's terms or local regulations.

If banned, Airbnb will allow you to honor existing reservations for the next two months. Any new bookings beyond that will be cancelled and Airbnb will assist guests in finding alternative options.

Suspensions come in different levels. Minor issues might only lead to a short, five-day suspension. Your existing bookings are safe during this time, giving you a chance to sort things out and get back on track.

What is the Airbnb Appeals Process?

If you believe your Airbnb listing has been unfairly restricted, you can initiate an appeals process. This gives you the chance to contest the decision and potentially restore access to your listing.

Steps to submit an appeal

1. Log into your Airbnb account Ensure you're logged in before starting the process.

2. Access the appeals form You can find this form in your account settings under "Support."

3. Gather the necessary details

• Name of the suspended listing.

• Reservation codes tied to reviews or complaints related to the issue.

• Specific review violations you believe apply, with clear reasoning.

4. Submit your appeal Attach any relevant documentation such as communication logs, photos or receipts, that supports your case.

Appeals must be submitted to Airbnb within six months of the original decision. After this period, you lose the right to contest the action.

What to Do if Your Airbnb Listing is Suspended for an Incorrect Description

A common reason for account suspension is a listing flagged due to an inaccurate or misleading description. If this happens:

1. Contact Airbnb support Reach out via email or Airbnb's support chat to explain your side. Clearly describe why you believe the listing is accurate or how you plan to fix the issue.

2. Provide evidence Provide clear photos, video tours or guest feedback that support your claims.

3. Be patient Airbnb conducts detailed investigations, which can take time or a few weeks. While you wait, assess your other listings to ensure compliance.

Once the issue is resolved, your account may be reinstated. Regularly evaluating and updating your listing details can help prevent future violations.

What Are Review Violations You Can Contest?

Not all bad reviews and negative feedback is valid or fair. Airbnb has strict policies, and if a comment violates these rules, you can appeal to have it removed.

Types of review violations

• Content policy violations: Feedback containing hate speech, threats, explicit language or false claims about your listing or amenities.

• False claims or irrelevant content: Complaints unrelated to the stay, like noise from a neighbor or bad weather.

• Biased or fraudulent content: Fake reviews from competitors or extortion attempts for refunds or perks.

To contest a review, go to the content in question and follow Airbnb’s reporting process, attaching as much evidence as possible.

What To Do When Your Airbnb Listing Is Suspended

Focus on upcoming reservations

Current accepted reservations can proceed as planned, so take this opportunity to showcase the high-quality experience offered and prove the listing's value.

Keep in touch with guests, make sure their stay is smooth and fix any problems quickly. Happy guests will help boost your reputation while you work through the suspension.

Analyze guest complaints

Use this downtime to evaluate your reviews. Look for patterns in complaints or suggestions that highlight areas for improvement, such as cleanliness, amenities or communication.

Addressing these issues can strengthen your listing and reduce the risk of future suspensions.

Appeal the suspension (if necessary)

Gather your listing name, reservation codes and a solid reason for the appeal. Submit everything via the appeals form on your Airbnb account.

Appeals are more successful if the issue involves review policy violations rather than single complaints or unfair reviews.

Pro Tips to Recover and Prevent Future Suspensions

Recovering from a suspension is possible with a thoughtful approach. Follow these tips to get back on track and avoid future issues:

Diversify your listings

Don't rely on just one platform. Use a reliable channel manager or all-in-one vacation rental software like Hostaway.

This allows you to list your property across multiple platforms, such as Booking.com and Vrbo. By doing so, you reduce your dependence on Airbnb.

It also keeps your reservations flowing smoothly, even if one channel faces issues. Plus, having your listing on multiple booking channels can help improve its visibility in search results.

Review suspension notices thoroughly

Understand exactly why you were suspended and take steps to address the problem.

Address guest complaints

Address concerns highlighted in traveler feedback and make sure your property meets all Airbnb standards — at minimum.

Stay persistent

Keep reaching out to Airbnb through various channels — email, social media and chat. Persistence pays off.

Consider a fresh start

Sometimes, creating a new account and starting over is the quickest route back. Just make sure your new listing looks distinct from the old.

Document everything

Keep records of all guest interactions, complaints and resolutions. Detailed documentation can strengthen your case during disputes or appeals.

Craft a strong appeal

Be professional and highlight the steps you've taken to improve. Attach evidence to support your claims.

Take preventive measures

Avoid future issues by staying on top of Airbnb's policies and guidelines.

Turning Setbacks Into Opportunities

Suspensions are temporary challenges, not the end of your hosting journey.

By taking appropriate action, improving your listings and diversifying your platforms, you can overcome these setbacks, emerge stronger and expand your presence on other platforms.

Hosting is about creating memorable guest experiences and every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow.

FAQs

1. How long does an Airbnb suspension last?

Suspension durations depend on the issue. Minor issues may lead to a five-day suspension, while severe violations can result in longer pauses or permanent suspensions.

2. What should I do if I get a bad review?

Respond professionally and use it as an opportunity to improve. If it violates Airbnb's policies, such as being part of competitor reviews, you can appeal for its removal.

3. Can I honor reservations if my account is suspended?

Yes, you can host guests with existing reservations for up to two months. New bookings, however, will be paused.

4. What usually causes Airbnb bans?

Bans often result from repeated policy violations, unresolved complaints or consistently low Airbnb ratings.

5. What steps should I take after my Airbnb listing is suspended?

Focus on existing bookings, analyze feedback and present a clear appeal if necessary. Maintain future compliance with Airbnb platform guidelines to avoid further suspensions.