I received the following message today (October 25th) after booking an airbnb apartment back on June 22nd for a month long stay.

“I’m so sorry but I have to cancel your reservation. We have had a death in the family and it has meant I have had to care for my grandmother full time. This has meant I have been unable to host people in the apartment. I really apologise as I know finding accommodation this late will be difficult. Thanks for your understanding”

Looks as though there is no penalty for the host cancelling at the last minute, and we fly to Australia in 10 days!!!