---
title: Airbnb Cancellation Policy Changes
description: Effective Sept 15, 2026, Airbnb is changing its cancellation policy framework, including phasing out Super Strict and Strict eligibility across Marketplace and Luxe listings.
---
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# Airbnb Cancellation Policy Changes
## Learn what's changing with Airbnb cancellation policies, how Gather is responding, and what it means for our homeowners and Property Managers.
Last Updated: July 2, 2026
Airbnb is changing its cancellation policy framework, including phasing out Super Strict and Strict eligibility across Marketplace and Luxe listings. Gather has been working directly with Airbnb to understand the constraints and confirm a clear operating standard for our portfolio. Below is a summary of what's changing, what Gather is managing centrally, and what you need to know.
## Key Dates
June 30, 2026
Deadline for existing Marketplace listings to elect **Strict** (instead of Firm) and existing Luxe listings to retain **Super Strict**. **Gather has already completed both actions.**
Through
Aug. 15, 2026
Gather can submit manual requests for **Strict** on eligible *new* Marketplace listings while we work with Airbnb on a longer-term solution.
Through
Sept. 15, 2026
Eligible *new* Luxe listings may still request **Super Strict**.
Sept. 15, 2026
**Airbnb's cancellation policy changes officially take effect.**
## What's Changing
Listing Type
Existing Listings
New Listings
Marketplace
Grandfathered **Super Strict** → **Strict**
**Firm** only
Luxe
Retains **Super Strict**
**Firm** only
**NOTE:** *Strict and Super Strict will no longer be available for **new listings** on either Marketplace or Luxe. This is an Airbnb platform limitation—not a Gather decision.*
## Responsibilities at a Glance
Airbnb Controls
✓ Available cancellation policies by listing type
✓ Strict & Super Strict eligibility for new listings
✓ Migration of grandfathered Marketplace **Super Strict** listings to **Strict**
✓ Eligibility rules for retaining **Super Strict** on Luxe listings
Gather Controls
✓ Luxe opt-in/opt-out decisions before the June 30 deadline
✓ Portfolio-level consistency
✓ Owner experience and communication
✓ Advocating with Airbnb to preserve the strongest available cancellation protections
## Key Takeaways
✓
**Strict** and **Super Strict** are being phased out for **new Airbnb listings** across both Marketplace and Luxe.
✓
Existing **Luxe** listings retain limited **Super Strict** grandfathering, while existing **Marketplace** listings transition to **Strict**.
✓
New listings on both programs will operate under Airbnb's **Firm** cancellation policy.
✓
**Vrbo**, Direct, and all other booking channels remain unchanged.
✓
Existing reservations will continue to honor the cancellation policy that was in place at the time of booking.
## Why Gather is Pushing Back
Based on data provided by Airbnb, cancellation rates increase as policies become more flexible:
Airbnb Reported Cancellation Rates
Super Strict
Strict
Firm
8.5%
12.5%
20.6%
While the increase from **Super Strict** to **Strict** is relatively modest, the increase to **Firm** is significant. For Gather's portfolio of luxury vacation rentals, fly-to destinations, and longer booking windows, stronger cancellation protections help reduce homeowner revenue exposure. That's why we continue working with Airbnb to preserve the strongest cancellation protections available whenever possible.
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