Vacationers should be mindful of specific considerations when reserving a vacation rental property
When planning a holiday, vacation rentals can be an attractive option due to their space, freedom, and often cheaper prices. However, it's essential to understand the rules and responsibilities involved to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.
Firstly, the rental agreement between landlord and tenant applies in private rentals. The accommodation must be clean, functional, and as described. If you find any defects, it's best to report them immediately in writing and set a deadline for rectification.
Guests also have duties. You should not have more people than booked, leave the apartment broom clean at the end, and observe house rules. If you cause any damage, you're generally responsible for covering the costs.
It's worth checking before the trip whether "rental property damages" are covered abroad. Many private household insurance policies include such coverage under the liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung) section, often with territorial limitations covering at least the European Union but sometimes extendable worldwide. However, private liability insurance may not automatically cover damages to rented items.
Families should ensure that children under seven are included in their insurance policies. Reviews from other guests and a comparison of photos with the location on Google Maps can help avoid disappointments. Creating a handover protocol with the landlord can prevent later disputes about damages.
Hidden costs such as towels, bed linen, cleaning fees, and security deposits should be considered. Unusually cheap offers should be approached with caution. It's important to carefully compare prices and services when booking vacation rentals.
The landlord may not enter a vacation rental unannounced - the right to privacy also applies here. Photos and witnesses can help enforce claims in private rentals. If the improvement is not made, a rent reduction or, in severe cases, termination is possible.
For more information on vacation rentals, visit: "Renting out your own apartment as a vacation rental: 7 tips to consider for short-term rentals", "These are the most bizarre finds in vacation homes", "Scam attempts on Booking.com: How vacationers can protect themselves from phishing".
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