Free template · updated November 3, 2026

Early check-in reply template for Airbnb hosts

Early check-in requests usually depend on one thing: whether the cleaner can finish sooner. Don't promise until you know, and when you say yes, give a specific time rather than "probably by noon".

When the answer is no, offer what you can: a place to leave bags, a nearby café or a message the moment the place is ready. If you charge for early check-in, collect it through the platform, never in cash or by bank transfer.

The template

Replace anything in [brackets] with your own details.

Yes

Hi [Guest first name],

Good news: we can have the place ready for you at [Early check-in time] on [Check-in date]. I'll send your door code and check-in steps on [Day and time the code is sent], and I'll message you here if anything changes.

There's a small early check-in fee of [Fee amount, or delete this sentence if it's free], and I'll send the request through [Platform] so you can pay there.

See you soon!

[Host first name]

No

Hi [Guest first name],

Thanks for asking. I'm sorry, but we have guests leaving that morning, and our cleaner needs until [Check-in time] to get everything ready for you.

A few options while you wait:

You're welcome to leave your bags [Luggage spot, e.g. in the screened porch] from [Bag drop time].
[Café or spot nearby] is [Distance] away and a nice place to wait.
I'll message you here the moment the place is ready, in case it's a little early.

Thanks for understanding, and safe travels!

[Host first name]

Tips

Check with your cleaner before you say yes, and give a specific time.
If you charge for early check-in, take it through the platform, never in cash or by e-transfer.
Offer a luggage drop or a place to wait when you have to say no.
Don't send the door code early just because they asked; send it once the place is ready.

Put it on one guest page instead of a binder

Keegix turns your welcome book into one link and a QR sign by the door. Upload the binder you already have and AI drafts the page in about a minute, or paste this template in. Free forever for one property.

Upload my binder, free See a sample guest page

Questions

Do I have to allow early check-in on Airbnb?

No. Your listing's check-in time is what the guest booked. Early check-in is a favour you can offer when your schedule allows.

Can I charge for early check-in?

Many hosts do. Collect it through the booking platform, not off it, and tell the guest the amount before they agree.

What if a guest shows up early anyway?

Kindly explain the place isn't ready and give the time it will be. Offer a spot to leave bags if you have one, and message them as soon as the cleaner is done.

More free templates

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Free to use

Copy it, change it, print it, use it with any platform. Sharing it with a host group, on a blog or in a forum? A link back to this page helps other hosts find the latest version:

https://keegix.com/guest-messages/early-check-in-request/