Photos that support an Airbnb or short-term rental damage claim

Platforms and guests both want to see the condition before the stay and right after it. Photos from months ago, or from the listing shoot, rarely settle anything. The habit that works is a quick, consistent set of photos at every turnover.

Before each guest arrives

• A wide shot of every room from the doorway, same angle every time
• Beds made, plus the mattress and mattress protector
• High-value items up close: TVs, art, decor, electronics
• Furniture surfaces that scratch or stain easily: tables, couches, rugs
• Towels and supplies you leave out, so missing items are clear

Right after checkout, before cleaning

• Repeat the same angles before the cleaner touches anything
• Close-ups of any damage, stains, or missing items, plus a wider shot showing where they are
• Anything left behind, and smoke or pet signs if your rules forbid them
• Ask your cleaner to send photos too if they find something later

Move quickly

Platforms set deadlines for damage requests after checkout. Airbnb's host damage protection, for example, asks hosts to submit requests within a short window after the guest leaves. Check the current terms for the platform you use, and message the guest through the platform first.

This is general information, not legal advice, and doesn't guarantee any claim outcome. Each platform decides claims under its own rules.