Protecting Your Holiday Home: What Happens if a Guest Causes Damage?

Owning a holiday rental property can be a rewarding investment, but one of the biggest concerns for owners is the risk of damage caused by guests. While most stays go smoothly, accidents can happen, and in rare cases, guests may cause significant damage – either unintentionally or deliberately. Understanding how to handle these situations can help you protect your property and your financial investment.

Understanding the Types of Damage

Not all damage is the same, and distinguishing between different types can help you decide on the best course of action:

Accidental Damage: This is unintentional and often includes spills, scratches, or broken household items. It’s a natural part of running a holiday rental.
Malicious Damage: This refers to deliberate harm, such as vandalism, severe neglect, or unruly behaviour leading to significant destruction.

Steps to Take When Damage Occurs

If you discover damage in your holiday home, follow these key steps:

Assess the Damage: Minor wear and tear, like scuffed walls or a broken glass, is usually expected and should be factored into general maintenance. However, major damage -such as broken furniture or a damaged kitchen worktop – requires further action.

Determine Who is Responsible: Some guests may admit fault and offer to pay for repairs. If you have taken a security deposit, you can use it to cover costs. If the damage exceeds the deposit, you may need to claim on your insurance or request additional payment from the guest.

Handling Disputes: If a guest denies responsibility, provide them with evidence such as photos, reports, or check in/check out records. Reference your booking terms and conditions regarding damage liability. If the issue remains unresolved, legal action through a small claims court may be necessary.