B2English

Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals

These phrases will help you communicate clearly with your host about check-in details, house rules, and any unexpected issues during your stay.

Key Phrases

Voice
Asking about check-in · 3 ways to say it

Could you possibly send over the check-in instructions whenever you have a moment?

polite

A respectful way to ask for details well in advance.

Would you mind letting us know how the check-in process works for our arrival tomorrow?

neutral

A standard, everyday inquiry suitable for any host.

Hey, just wondering if you could shoot me the details for getting in tomorrow.

casual

Very informal; only use if the host has already established a highly relaxed tone.

Locating the key · 2 ways to say it

We've arrived at the property, but I'm having a bit of trouble finding the lockbox.

neutral

Uses vague language ('a bit of trouble') to avoid sounding accusatory.

I've been looking around, but I can't seem to figure out exactly where the key is hidden.

casual

Natural conversational phrasing for when you're mildly stuck.

Asking for WiFi details · 2 ways to say it

I was wondering if you might be able to share the WiFi network and password with us.

polite

Highly polite hedging, ideal for contacting a host you haven't met.

Hey, could I grab the WiFi password from you when you get a chance?

casual

A very informal request using the casual verb 'grab'.

Asking about waste disposal · 2 ways to say it

Could you remind me what the house rules are for taking the trash out?

neutral

US English — use this variant when travelling in North America.

Could you remind me what the house rules are for taking the rubbish out?

neutral

UK English — use this variant when travelling in the UK or Ireland.

Reporting a problem · 2 ways to say it

I just wanted to let you know that the air conditioning doesn't seem to be working properly.

polite

Softens the complaint by using the past tense ('wanted') and 'doesn't seem to be'.

Hey, it looks like the hot water heater is acting up and we can't get it working.

casual

Uses the common phrasal verb 'acting up' for a malfunctioning appliance.

Contacting the host

If we were to experience any issues during our stay, what would be the best way to contact you?

polite

A cautious, hypothetical question to establish communication boundaries.

Requesting late checkout

Would it be at all possible to arrange a slightly later checkout time for tomorrow morning?

neutral

Politely tests the waters for flexibility without making a demand.

Checking out · 2 ways to say it

We're checking out now, and the keys have been left on the kitchen counter as requested.

neutral

A clear, standard departure message confirming you have followed their instructions.

We're heading out now and we've left the keys on the table, so thanks again for everything!

casual

A warm and friendly way to notify the host that you have departed.

Practice Dialogue

Guest
Hi there, it's Mark checking into the apartment—we've just arrived, but I'm having a bit of trouble finding the lockbox.
Host
Oh, hi Mark, no worries at all; the lockbox is actually attached to the side gate rather than the front door.
Guest
Right, okay, I see it now, and just to double-check, the entry code for the door is still 4-2-1-3?
Host
Yep, that's exactly it, and once you're inside, you'll find the WiFi details in the binder on the kitchen counter.
Guest
Perfect, I appreciate that, and by the way, what's the best way to get in touch if anything comes up?
Host
You can just message me directly through the app, or give me a call on this number if it's an emergency.
Guest
Great, sounds good to me, so I think we're all set for now and we'll let you go.
Host
You bet, so just settle in, have a great time, and let me know if you end up needing anything else.

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