Configure the Security Deposit Synchronization on Airbnb
Adapt your security deposit management to Airbnb's new changes. Now, the platform no longer automatically charges the security deposit upon booking confirmation. Instead, it intervenes only if damage occurs during the stay. As a host, you still have the option to manage the security deposit directly from Avantio if you prefer.
What has changed on Airbnb?
Before: Airbnb charged and managed the security deposit mandatorily at the time of booking.
Now: Airbnb does not charge it upfront. If there are damages, it handles the claim with the guest.
Optional: you can still charge the security deposit outside of Airbnb, as long as you communicate the amount correctly.
👉 Pay attention to details: the way you configure the security deposit in Avantio will affect how it is displayed to the guest and how it is recorded in your system.
Step by step: configure the security deposit in Avantio
Enter Channel PRO and click on the "Portals" tab.
Select Configure on the Airbnb portal.
Go to the Payment Configuration section.
Locate the Security Deposit Management section and choose one of the options:
I don't work with a security deposit: no security deposit will be shown or recorded in Airbnb bookings.
I collect the security deposit: the amount defined in the VRMS will sync with Airbnb and be shown to the guest before confirming the booking. Additionally, it will be automatically recorded in your VRMS.
⚠️ If you do not select any option:
The amount will be shown to the guest on Airbnb, but it will not be recorded in Avantio. You will need to add it manually to each booking.
Best Practices
Clarity for the guest: ensure the security deposit amount is reasonable and well communicated to avoid surprises.
Using external tools (e.g., Swikly): remember to manually record the security deposit in Avantio, as it will not sync automatically.
Uniformity: this configuration applies to all accommodations connected to Airbnb, it cannot be customized per property.
Common Mistakes
Not selecting any configuration option (which requires manually recording the security deposit for each booking).
Forgetting to update the amount information in the VRMS.
Thinking the security deposit is managed independently per accommodation (it only exists at the global account level).
Quick Checklist
I have decided whether I will work with a security deposit or not.
I have configured the corresponding option in the "Security Deposit Management" section.
I have checked that the amount in VRMS is correct.
If I use an external system, I understand that I must manually record the security deposit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the security deposit be configured per accommodation?
No. The security deposit synchronization option applies to the entire account and all advertisements connected to Airbnb.
What does the guest see when I activate the security deposit?
The amount is shown as a notice before they confirm the booking.
What happens if I don't choose any option in the configuration?
The amount is shown on Airbnb, but not recorded in Avantio. You will need to add it manually to each booking.
Can I continue using my external security deposit management tool?
Yes. You just need to remember that you will have to manually record the amount in Avantio, as synchronization will not be automatic.
Does Airbnb still intervene in case of damages?
Yes. Although it does not charge the security deposit upfront, it still manages damage claims during the stay.
✅ In summary: with the new security deposit synchronization option in Avantio, you decide whether to automatically display and record the security deposit or manage it on your own. This way, you maintain control and easily adapt to Airbnb's changes.