Want Better STR Guests and Fewer Headaches? Start With These 3 Check-In Rules
If you want better guests, fewer headaches, and less damage drama, your check-in requirements matter more than you think.
One of the fastest ways to improve guest quality and protect revenue isn’t adjusting prices or adding amenities — it’s setting the right expectations before a guest ever arrives. When done well, smart check-in requirements quietly filter out party groups and problem bookings while keeping conversions healthy.
1. Rental Agreement Signing
Think of this as your first line of defense — not a legal scare tactic.
A short, clear rental agreement sets expectations around house rules, occupancy, and liability. In my experience, guests who resist signing one are often the same ones who later “missed” the rules. The good guests? They sign with no questions asked.
The key is keeping it reasonable and readable. You’re aiming for clarity, not intimidation. Some guests may sign without reading every detail, but having a signed agreement still offers more protection than having none at all.
2. ID Verification (Beyond the OTA Checkmark)
ID verification by OTAs (Online Travel Agencies), like Airbnb, is a starting point — not the finish line.
Verifying ID yourself helps confirm:
- the booker is who they say they are
- they meet your age requirements
- the person checking in is actually the one who booked
This step is especially important when a guest is new to the platform or has little to no review history. It also gives you peace of mind without being intrusive — as long as you’re clear that guest information is kept private and never shared.
Done right, this builds trust on both sides. And in the rare event things escalate, having verified photo ID for the primary booker can be incredibly helpful when working with local authorities to resolve the situation properly.
3. Security Deposit or Damage Protection
Damage happens — even with great guests, especially when they have little ones running around.
Whether you use a refundable, temporary credit card hold, a damage protection waiver, or host-purchased coverage, having some form of protection in place can save you a lot of stress (and money). A small upfront cost often prevents much bigger losses later.
More importantly, it signals that your home is cared for and professionally managed.
With damage protection in place, post-checkout claims can often be handled without involving the guest, which helps avoid unnecessary friction. Every damage protection plan has exclusions, so be sure to review and understand what’s covered, and what isn’t.
When using a security deposit, clear and upfront communication before charging is essential to minimize disputes and bad reviews on your listing.
The Real Payoff
Solid check-in requirements don’t scare off good guests — they attract the right guests.
When your process is clear, fair, and intentional, you’ll see:
- better guest behavior and experiences
- fewer damage issues
- smoother operations
- more consistent cashflow
This is exactly the kind of thing I coach other hosts — how to streamline operations in a way that protects the home, reduces risk, and actually drives better revenue (not fewer bookings).
👉 Book a discovery call and let’s raise the quality bar together.