We are sharing information about our recent stay in hopes that you have a better experience! We looked forward to our trip to Long Beach and staying in a “recently renovated” unit in early June 2022.

Upon arrival, we immediately noticed our rental looked different from the advertising photos. The bright airy space was dark and dirty. The white rug that lightened the room was now dark brown and filthy. There were maintenance and safety issues (ex: a defective deadbolt lock on the front door, a curled rug, worn sofa cushions, dirty windows, chipped bathroom tiles, to name a few). Bedside table and lamp had been moved to make room for AC. No light as no outlet; cord just there. The ad did not show the AC tubing nor the AC floor unit within 12” of the pillow at the left head of the bed. Not a healthy setup. The entry to the unit was was dirty and unwelcoming.

Being elderly and using Airbnb for the very first time, we decided we would not make an issue; however, by the end of our 5-day stay, with the window unit located right beside where my head lay and with the dirty rug and cushions, I got very sick and on the last day had an allergic asthmatic reaction. By the time we left, I was having difficulty breathing. Asthma and heavy chest congestion led me to Urgent Care 2 times over the next few days with a respiratory infection and asthma. I was placed on 5 different medicines. Hospitalization was even discussed.

After being sick for a few days, we contacted our host, Angela, and explained about the misleading pictures and the state of the unit. We also mentioned the poor air quality. We asked for a compensation of 25% (willing to negotiate). We had stayed there and we wanted to be fair. We felt the ad was misleading and the unit was no way “newly renovated.” She replied, “The ad clearly stated it was newly renovated in 2018.” In the ad we read, there was NO date listed. And, 2018? Is a renovation completed 4 years ago considered ‘recent?’ The host stated we had to expect normal wear and tear; they couldn’t come in and paint and fix everything in-between each renter. We certainly understand wear and tear. We also understand maintenance. But, over a period of time, a renter expects some cleaning, maintenance and repair work to be completed for general upkeep of a unit.

It was an expensive rental: $1700+ for 5 nights. We felt the ad photos did not show the present condition of the unit accurately and also that the dirt and dust made the air quality unhealthy to breathe. The host seemed to be more concerned about the rules and timelines than the comfort, safety and health of her guests and the cleanliness of her unit.