A long-time Airbnb host in Brighton, John Rundell, ended up losing $17,300 worth of items and fears identity theft after hosting a guest in trouble. Despite being suspicious of the guest's lack of accommodation history, Rundell trusted Airbnb and agreed to host her at the last minute.
A representative of the accommodation company called the long-time host on March 8 requesting help. A female guest had a problem with her booked accommodation – could he step in at the last minute and host her that night? Airbnb would pay him for his trouble.Rundell, who has rented out room in his large Brighton house for years, was wary.
Court records show that prior to her stay at Rundell’s home, the guest had been convicted on a string of charges including possession of drugs, driving offences, car theft and retention of stolen goods.Rundell, a chartered accountant, has rented out a room for nearly 10 years in the house he shares with partner Sonia, his stepdaughter and her partner. He prefers to rent out a room rather his whole house, but the couple can move at short notice to their boat which is moored nearby.
It was only later that day that Sonia noticed her prized Ferragamo handbag – valued at more than $4000 – was missing. That month, Rundell received another unexpected phone call. A police officer called to say they had found his expired passport after raiding a house in Frankston.
Airbnb Host Guest Trouble Accommodation Stolen Items Identity Theft
Singapore Latest News, Singapore Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Kensington Palace loses trusted source rating on AP Photos after Royal photo scandalKensington Palace loses trusted source rating on AP Photos after Royal photo scandal
Read more »
Blue Mountains locals protest housing insecurity, as Airbnb listings rival long-term rental numbersIt is estimated that 90 per cent of advertised rental listings in the popular NSW tourist area and mountain region west of Sydney are short-term accommodation.
Read more »
New Aussie state eyes Airbnb ban or taxPolitical parties from yet another Australian state have joined the short-term rental pile-on, with policies ranging from a ban on all Airbnbs to a new levy.
Read more »
Airbnb and Stayz accept tourism levy for all holiday rentalsExpedia, owner of brands such as Wotif and Stayz, has told a NSW government review that it backs a tax “of a sensible quantum” to fund social and affordable housing.
Read more »
Unusual Airbnb Listing Offers Verandah Sleeping ArrangementAn Airbnb listing in Western Australia has faced criticism for offering guests a place to sleep on a verandah in Perth's Mosman Park. The listing advertised a comfortable single bed with a latex mattress, ideal for those who enjoy waking up with nature. However, the host acknowledged that there may be some downsides, such as mosquitoes. Despite this, the verandah provided a unique and peaceful sleeping experience.
Read more »
Vic tourism body urges Labor to drop Airbnb taxVictoria’s peak tourism body has urged the Allan government to abandon its tax on short-stay accommodation, warning it will harm regional tourism while failing to increase the supply of rental housing.
Read more »