Limitations of background checks

Because our background checks are limited, we can’t guarantee that they’ll identify all past criminal convictions or sex offender registrations by a guest or Host. Therefore, you shouldn’t rely on them as a guarantee that the user has no criminal background or other red flags. Here’s why.

Scope of search

We don’t run background checks on every Airbnb user. If we have at least a first name, last name, and date of birth for a US-based user who creates a listing, or is associated with a booking, we may perform a background check on that user. We also may perform background checks on India-based Hosts.

Accuracy of user information

These checks only work when people give us their full, correct legal names and dates of birth. Even if they provided all required information, we can’t guarantee it’s accurate or that it even really belongs to them.

Infrequency

While we have a process for periodically reviewing criminal records of active US users, their most recent review may have been months before you’re due to interact with them.

Inconsistent reporting

For users who live in the US, we don’t always check all state and county courthouse records, criminal registries, and public databases, such as but not limited to Moving Violation Reports and Driving Records. Due to variations in local laws and reporting systems, criminal record information that’s searched and reported in each type of check can vary by state and county.

Timing

Because of differences in foreign laws, language, and the way foreign records are maintained and reported, we may not run background checks on users located outside the United States, and even if we do, the scope and accuracy of coverage may vary.

Incomplete search results

The databases we check are not necessarily complete and may not include records of prior criminal conduct.

• Ex: Not all criminal records are public in all states, nor are they all captured by the databases we check
• Ex: Convictions and records of crimes committed outside the country where we are conducting the check may not be included

Also, as determined by applicable law, public records databases may be limited to records of conduct that took place a certain number of years prior to the date of the check, ex: The prior 7 years in certain US states.

Criminal deceit

People may find ways to circumvent even the most sophisticated database or search technology.