5 ways in which damp can affect someone offering accommodation in London on Airbnb

Airbnb, founded in 2008, continues to be an extremely popular way for people to find accommodation when travelling as an alternative to a hotel. It provides a way for homeowners who want to rent out their homes or spare rooms for those wanting to stay somewhere, offering something different, often delivering them outstanding value. This affordable way of going about things also creates friendships and regular return bookings through its dedicated app.

Those who offer their homes on Airbnb do so to generate extra income, which can be used to help pay off a mortgage or go towards holidays of their own. It’s an ideal flexible option for property owners, while travellers enjoy using it as it provides a wide range of listings and authentic homestays if visiting somewhere unfamiliar and a true experience is desired. Those offering accommodation should consider having regular independent damp surveys for the following 5 reasons.

1. The whole concept of Airbnb thrives on positive guest experiences, which signs of damp can quickly ruin. Guests may notice musty odours, peeling wallpaper, or mould patches, which can leave a negative impression. Even small indications of damp, which can be prevented through an independent damp survey, can lead to poor reviews, damaging ratings and deterring future bookings. This can be damaging in a competitive market like London.
2. Damp environments often lead to mould growth, which can trigger allergies, asthma, or respiratory problems. If a guest becomes unwell during their stay and puts it thinks it’s because of damp conditions, it could result in complaints, refund requests, or worse. A healthy environment is crucial for protecting a business and meeting Airbnb’s standards, so that a property and its owner are not banned from offering accommodation.
3. Damp and timber independent surveys are something that any responsible Airbnb business should consider because if it is left untreated, damp spreads and causes structural damage to walls, ceilings, flooring, and wooden fittings. That can mean frequent redecoration, costly repairs, and potential loss of income if the property needs to be taken off the market while work is carried out.
4. Potential guests who take their time comparing listings before making a booking are unlikely to choose a property with visible signs of damp in photos or reviews from those who have stayed previously and mention that they found moisture. Even if bookings continue, it may require reducing nightly rates to compensate for the property’s condition. In the long run, damp directly reduces profitability.
5. An independent damp surveyor can save someone offering Airbnb accommodation a lot of money by identifying issues before they escalate. Damp can quickly ruin soft furnishings, carpets, curtains, and bedding, leaving them stained or smelling musty. Paint and wallpaper may bubble or peel, needing costly repair and putting guests off staying.

 

A call to our professional team on 020 7205 4886 is a smart way for anyone in the Airbnb business to ensure that their property is devoid of damp and that guests enjoy their stay.