Thanks for your opinion. While I disagree, I’m glad you took the time to answer.
Yes, if the damage is significant and clearly not your fault, it’s worth pursuing.
What I’m not sure about here (my fault!) is details about claiming damage from which entity?
The OP speaks about VRBO guests and I know nothing about that. Is the situation here about claiming from VRBO or from the OP’s STR insurance?
Thanks for clarifying.
Vrbo gives the option of having a guest buy one of 3 prepaid insurance packages ranging from $59 to $99 and coverage amounts based on which they choose…OR an agreed upon damage deposit I choose that is released 14 days after checkout. In the first scenario, any damage I find as a host is covered by the insurance co. up to the predetermined amt. of the package ($1,500-$5,000).
In this situation, it was the latter, the damage deposit by the guest of $4,000. So if I put in a claim, the amt. would be deducted from that $4K and the rest released after said 14 days.
I chose to work it out with the guest in a private email to her explaining the sensitive nature of the bedding/driveway; she felt terrible, apologized and appreciated my candor and keeping it off the platform. She agreed to send me funds to cover the amt. I paid to repair damages and did so immediately. It all worked out!
Thank you all for your feedback!
That’s wonderful. It’s great to hear a success story.
I am really sorry you had to deal with that that definitely sounds like more than normal wear and tear. Since this is actual property damage and not just a minor issue, I’d absolutely file the $500 claim. You shouldn’t be out of pocket for something so clearly beyond what’s reasonable from a guest. Vrbo’s protection exists for situations like this, and it’s fair to use it.
Yes, if the damage affects safety or causes significant costs, pursuing a claim is worth it.
Can you explain why the damage described affects safety or significant cost?