If your custom domain is not working as expected, it’s usually due to DNS configuration, propagation delays, or conflicting records.
This article covers the most common issues and how to resolve them.
Check Your Domain Setup
Start by confirming that your domain was added correctly in Hospitable:
Go to Direct Bookings → Websites
Select your site
Open the Domain section
Verify that your domain is listed and saved
If the domain is not added or verified, complete the setup steps first.
Verify DNS Configuration
Incorrect DNS settings are the most common cause of domain issues.
If Hospitable manages your DNS:
Make sure your nameservers are updated with your domain provider
Confirm they match the values provided in Hospitable
If you manage DNS yourself:
Ensure the correct records are added exactly as shown in Hospitable
Double-check for typos or incorrect values
Your domain must point to the exact DNS values provided in Hospitable. Even small differences can prevent it from working.
Check for Conflicting Records
Existing DNS records can override your new setup.
Common conflicts include:
Existing A records pointing to another host
Multiple CNAME or AAAA records for the same domain
Remove or update any conflicting records so only the required records remain.
A conflicting A record is one of the most common reasons a domain does not connect correctly.
Allow Time for DNS Propagation
After updating DNS settings:
Changes can take time to propagate globally
Most updates complete within 1–2 hours
In some cases, it can take up to 48 hours
During this time, your site may:
Not load
Show an outdated version
Display errors
Check SSL Certificate Status
After DNS propagation:
Hospitable automatically provisions an SSL certificate
This can take an additional 15–30 minutes
During this time, your site may show a security warning.
Temporary security warnings during SSL setup are expected and will resolve automatically.
Confirm Domain Type
Make sure your domain setup matches the correct type:
Subdomains (e.g.,
book.yoursite.com) use CNAME recordsRoot domains (e.g.,
yoursite.com) require specific A records
Some domain providers may not support certain configurations (e.g., root domain CNAMEs).
Subdomain Limitations
Your default Hospitable subdomain:
Is set when your site is created
Cannot be changed later
If you need a different URL:
Connect a custom domain instead
Test Your Domain
After setup:
Try accessing your domain in a browser
Use a private/incognito window to avoid cached results
Use tools like DNS checkers to confirm propagation
When to Contact Support
If your domain is still not working after:
Verifying DNS settings
Removing conflicts
Waiting for propagation
Contact support with:
Your domain name
Screenshots of your DNS records
A description of the issue
Important Things to Know
DNS configuration must match Hospitable instructions exactly
Propagation can take up to 48 hours
SSL certificates are created automatically after DNS setup
Conflicting records can prevent your domain from working
Subdomains and root domains require different configurations