Short Term Rental Agreement

This Short Term Rental Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into between ____________ (“Host”), and the guest (referred to herein as “You” and “Guest”) on the date Guest’s reservation is screened and accepted by Host for the premises requested by Guest (the “Premises”), on behalf of the property owner (the “Property Owner”), if the Property Owner is a different party than Host. Please review this Rental Agreement in its entirety. For good and valuable consideration, the sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties therefore agree as follows:

1. Acceptance of Terms; Confirmation of Reservation. Completion of this reservation with Host and authorizing your payment constitutes your agreement to all such terms, conditions, and notice requirements, including but not limited to the cancellation and refund policy.  Additionally, Guest consents and agrees to Agreement and authorizes Host to charge Guest’s credit card to reserve the Premises according to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.  Host will notify the Guest by email when their reservation is accepted, and you will receive confirmation of your reservation within two business days. Guest agrees to the terms of this agreement either by executing it or by agreeing to rent the Premises through an online reservation or through a third-party service provider. 

2. Reservation, Check-In, and Check-Out. Reservations made more than fourteen (14) days before arrival require a fifty percent (50%) deposit at the time of booking, with the remaining balance automatically charged fourteen (14) days prior to check-in. Reservations made within fourteen (14) days of arrival require full payment at the time of booking. All online reservations require payment by credit card at the time of booking. By completing the reservation process, Guest authorizes Host to charge the total remaining balance when due, as well as any unpaid balances, damages, missing items, or additional cleaning costs incurred during the stay. Reservation charges include, but are not limited to, lodging, taxes, the Accidental Damage Waiver Program (ADWP), cleaning, and booking fees, which are subject to adjustment if state or county tax rates change before arrival. Guest will receive, via email or SMS message, the check-in information, which includes arrival and departure policies and procedures, as well as an access code providing self-entry to the Premises upon arrival. This information will be provided at least three (3) days prior to arrival, or as soon as applicable for reservations made closer to the check-in date. For additional terms governing cancellations, refunds, and modification procedures, see Section 4 – Standard Cancellation and Refund Policy.

3. Arrival and Departure

• Check-in is 3:00 PM (or later)  

• Check-out is 11:00 AM (or earlier)

Policies: 

• Early check-in or late check-out times may be arranged (when available) with Host, for an additional fee.  

• Early arrivals or late departures without prior arrangement with Host are subject to additional fees.

• Upon departure, Guest shall peaceably and quietly leave the Premises at the end of the Rental Term and shall leave the Premises in good order and condition, reasonable use and wear excepted. 

  Guest agrees to complete the “Guest Departure Checklist/Procedures” provided to Guest or included on the Premises.

  4. Standard Cancellation and Refund Policy

4.1 Free Cancellation Period
Guest will receive a 100% refund if the reservation is canceled fifteen (15) or more days prior to the scheduled check-in date as shown in the confirmation email. 

4.2 Partial Refund Window
If the reservation is canceled between eight (8) and fourteen (14) days prior to check-in, Guest shall receive a fifty percent (50%) refund of all amounts paid, including applicable taxes and fees, except for any nonrefundable processing or booking fees.

4.3 No Refund Window
No refund will be issued for cancellations made within seven (7) days prior to the scheduled check-in date.

4.4 Written Notice Requirement
All cancellations and any changes to reservations must be submitted in writing to Host prior to the applicable cancellation deadline. Cancellations or modifications made after the stated deadlines are not eligible for any refund.

4.5 Travel Insurance Recommendation
For added peace of mind, Guests are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances or last-minute changes that may affect travel plans.

5. Guest Security Deposit For Damages: For all direct bookings with Host, Guest agrees to provide a valid credit card account to be held for the purposes of a Security Deposit. The amount of the Security Deposit will be communicated to you prior to charging. Host will conduct a Check-Out inspection of Premises after Guest departure. Should damages be evident during the inspection, Guest authorizes Host to charge Guest’s credit card for any damages, including but not limited to excessive cleaning or any unnecessary service calls that occur during the Guest’s occupancy.  If the Guest’s credit card is charged, a receipt and documentation will be sent to Guest within 45 days of departure. In the event Guest leaves the Premises in a condition where it is unable to be made ready for the next guests, Guest will be responsible for lost rental revenue.

6. Premises Conditions:  Host makes every effort to ensure the Premises, all equipment, and appliances are in good and working order prior to your arrival.  If there is a malfunction, or if Guest has any other issues with the Premises, Guest must report the issue to Host immediately by telephone or via email. Host shall be allowed a reasonable amount of time to restore Premises to an acceptable condition.  Any issues presented after check-out cannot be remedied and are not cause for compensation.  Reservation is non-refundable unless the rental unit becomes unfit for habitation as deemed by Management. Host will make reasonable effort available to ensure repairs are made and that all equipment on the Premises is kept in good working order and condition.

7. Force Majeure. Host is not able to give refunds or make changes to the reservation due to weather related issues, acts of God (i.e. snow, wind, rain, power outages), medical emergencies, illness, death, pandemics, or any other causes beyond their control. Host is also not able to offer refunds for early departures. If you have concerns about a cancellation, Host strongly suggests you consider third party travel insurance options.

8. Dispute terms: All claims to be asserted under the terms of this Agreement shall be asserted within one year after the Departure Date. Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, including, without limitations, the making, performance, or interpretation of this Agreement, shall be settled by arbitration. Notwithstanding the above, Host may file action in the appropriate small claims court to collect damages within the jurisdiction of that court. Guest agrees that it will not seek a jury trial or otherwise seek to remove the action from the small claims department. In the event that Guest files a counterclaim, it may not exceed the jurisdiction of the Small Claims Department. A counterclaim by Guest that exceeds the jurisdictional limit of the small claims department shall be subject to the arbitration provisions herein.  Guest agrees that in the event Guest disputes any credit card or debit card charges by Host with their financial institution or credit card issuer and said dispute is resolved in favor of Host, Guest will be responsible for all fees associated with the dispute plus $100.

9. Personal Effects:  Guest should ensure all their personal property items brought onto the Premises are covered for repair or replacement by the Guest’s own insurance provider.  The Owner is not responsible for the repair or replacement of any of the Guests personal property at any time for any reason.                             

10. Pets: Pets are permitted on a property-by-property basis, which will be communicated to you on the listing page for the Premises. If pets are allowed on the Premises, you agree to abide by the pet fee policy applicable to the Premises and will be charged accordingly. All intentions to bring a pet to any Host property must be declared at time of booking. Pets must be kept on a leash when outdoors on property line, including common backyard area, unless there is a contained fenced area for the purpose of animals. Pets must be kept in a crate if Guest leaves a pet alone in or on the Premises. If there are no pets allowed on the Premises and Guest brings a pet, a minimum $250 additional cleaning fee will be charged, and Guest may be asked to leave without refund. 

11. Supplies:  Guest understands that starter items such as hotel sized shampoo, conditioner, hand lotion, hand soap, laundry detergent, paper towels, tissues, dishwasher soap and dish soap will be provided for in the properties by Host.  Once these starter items have been exhausted, it is the Guest responsibility to replenish the necessary supplies needed during Guest stay.  Other items such as coffee, tea, creamer, filters, spices, etc., may be provided but are not guaranteed. 

12. Hot Tubs and Pools:  The following terms apply if the Premises being rented under this Agreement has a hot tub or pool. The hot tub/pool is maintained by Host and regularly checked for cleanliness and proper operation. Guest acknowledges that hot tub/pool maintenance may occur during Guests’ stay and agrees that (a) service personnel may enter Premises to check hot tub/pool if guest is not on Premises or (b) Guest must otherwise allow access to Premises to perform service. Guest agrees to observe and adhere to all rules and policies as posted at the Premises regarding safe use of the hot tub/pool. Smoking, vaping, or the use of any tobacco, marijuana, or controlled substances is strictly prohibited in or near the hot tub or within any enclosed or covered hot tub area. Guests are reminded to review Section 17 – Smoking, Vaping, and Marijuana Policy and Section 18 – Illegal or Illicit Drugs Policy for additional provisions and restrictions. Guest acknowledges that the hot tub/pool and any surrounding patio/deck surfaces may be slippery when wet and accepts all risks associated with their use. Guest accepts and assumes all risk involved in, or related to, the use of the hot tub/pool and patio/deck areas and and releases Host and Owner from any and all liability, injury, or loss that may result in connection with the use of the hot tub/pool and adjacent areas. 

Host makes no guarantees related to the hot tub/pool and its use.  However, if there is a problem with the hot tub/pool during your stay please contact Host immediately so that we can contact the hot tub/pool company to attempt to remedy the problem in a timely manner. Although rare, hot tubs/pools do break down and the hot tub/pool company will make every effort to get it back up and running. In the event the hot tub/pool is unable to be used during your stay for a mechanical reason, and you have properly notified Host, Host will refund Guest $15 for every 24 hours you are unable to use the hot tub/pool due to mechanical failure. Host will not refund money for problems associated with improper use, neglect, or sanitation issues resulting from Guest activity, including but not limited to circumstances where the hot/tub must be drained for cleaning or restoration. 

13. Occupancy and Visitors:  The premises are intended for quiet residential vacation or work accommodations, and use shall not be such as to disturb or offend neighbors or other residents. The stated maximum occupancy applies to overnight guests as listed on Host’s website and in the confirmation email, ensuring comfort and safety within the home. Guests are welcome to have friends or family visit during their stay; however, all visits and gatherings must remain reasonable in size and nature, conducted in a manner that does not create noise, parking, or nuisance issues. Normal social visits are acceptable, but parties, events, or disruptive gatherings are strictly prohibited. Should occupancy or guest activity become excessive or disruptive, Host reserves the right to terminate this Agreement without refund and require immediate vacate of the Premises. Additional cleaning or damage fees may apply, and Host or Host’s agent may enter the Premises when reasonably necessary for maintenance, repair, or verification of compliance.     

14. Age Requirement:  Guest warrants that he or she is at least twenty-five (25) years of age and acknowledges that they may be asked to provide proof of age at the time the reservation is made.  Guest is responsible for all other persons staying or visiting the Premises during the reservation.  If Guest is not twenty-five (25) years or older, Host reserves the right to terminate the reservation without a refund.

15. Use of Premises:  This reservation is for quiet residential vacation/work accommodations only.  Use of premises shall not be such as to disturb or offend neighbors or other residents.  Host has the right to terminate this Agreement and to ask disruptive Guest(s) to vacate the Premises without refunding rent or deposits.  Minors (under 18) are not to be left alone or unchaperoned.  Guest may not sublet or assign this Agreement.  Guest understands that Host cannot guarantee that neighboring properties or any complex a property resides in will be free from disturbances and/or not be under construction, being repaired, or maintained in any way, or that State construction projects will not be in progress around the Premises.  These disturbances are not a reason for termination of this Agreement, nor is it a reason for a refund.

16. Internet Access:  All properties managed by Host have wireless internet access provided by the Property Owner as a courtesy for Guest; however, this service can sometimes be erratic.  Host makes every effort to ensure this service is working properly, but is not responsible for problems with internet service or Guest’s computer.  Host does not provide any technical support and no refunds are issued for internet service problems. Guest acknowledges that guest may only use the internet services on the Premises for legal purposes.

17. Illegal or Illicit Drugs: Guest shall not engage in or allow the use of any illicit or illegal drugs (“illegal” as defined by US or applicable state Government) or substances at the Premises nor shall Guest permit of others in the rental party to participate in such activity. Any violation of this provision of the Agreement shall automatically be a significant and material breach of this agreement and rental may be terminated by Host without refund to Guest.

18. Smoking, Vaping, and Marijuana Policy: Smoking or vaping of any kind—including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, and vape products—is strictly prohibited inside the Premises. Smoking is permitted outdoors only and must occur away from doors, patios, porches and any open windows to prevent smoke from entering the home. Smoking is not permitted in the enclosed hot tub area. Guests are required to properly dispose of all cigarette butts in the designated outdoor container provided by Host. The use or possession of marijuana or any controlled substance is strictly prohibited anywhere on the property, including outdoor areas. (See Section 17– Illegal or Illicit Drugs – for further provisions.) Violation of this policy will result in a $500 fine, plus any additional cleaning and repair costs necessary to restore the Premises. Continued noncompliance may result in immediate termination of the rental without refund and removal from the Premises.

19. Weapons and Dangerous Items Policy

19.1 Weapons Notification and Consent
Guests who intend to bring firearms or other lawful weapons onto the Premises must provide prior written notice to Host and obtain Host’s consent before booking. Only Guests who have received express written approval may possess weapons on the Premises.

19.2 Storage and Security
All approved weapons must be properly secured at all times in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
For the purposes of this Agreement, “secured weapons” are defined as firearms or lawful weapons that are stored in a locked case, container, or safe, equipped with a locking device, or kept holstered and under the direct control of the lawful owner at all times.
Ammunition should be stored separately from any firearm when not in use.

19.3 Prohibited Items
Explosives, fireworks, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous or unlawful items are strictly prohibited on the Premises.

19.4 Violation and Consequences
Failure to provide notice, obtain consent, or comply with these requirements may result in immediate cancellation of the reservation without refund, removal from the Premises, and/or notification of law enforcement authorities as deemed appropriate by Host.

20. Additional Rental Rules: In addition to all of the rules and terms of this Agreement, Guest agrees to abide by the following rental rules at all times during Guest's stay at the Premises. Guest shall also ensure that any person Guest permits on the Premises shall also abide by such the rental rules.

• Guest must "baby-proof" the Premises to their individual safety standards. 

• Guest will use discretion and leverage hand railings where possible for walking on steps and outdoor surfaces.

• Guest must lock doors when exiting the Premises for extended durations.

• Guests may not move or rearrange large furniture or remove any furnishings from the Premises. Light adjustments, such as moving a chair or small table, are permitted if items are returned to their original locations before departure and no damage occurs. Outdoor furniture is for outdoor use only. A fee may be charged if furniture must be reset or if damage results from movement or misuse.  

• Guest shall not erect tents, park recreational vehicles or trailers on the Premises without the prior written permission of the owner or Host. 

• Candle/Incense burning is not permitted at the Premises.  

• Quiet hours are from 11:00 PM to 8:00 AM, Sunday through Thursday, and 12:00 AM to 7:00 AM on Friday and Saturday. These hours are strictly enforced. 

• Boats, campers, RV’s, etc. cannot be parked onsite. Please adhere to parking advisories provided within your check-in instructions.

In addition to all rules set forth herein, Guest agrees to read and adhere to all rules and information outlined in any other communication to Guest or other written materials provided at the Premises regarding use of the Premises. 

21. Indemnification:  Guest hereby agrees to release, indemnify, defend and hold Host and Owner, and their employees, members shareholders, heirs, agents and assigns, harmless from any and all claims, damages or causes of action and including, without limitation, attorney fees and costs, arising out of or in any way related to the use of the Premises by Guest, or any invitees of Guest. Guest assumes the risk of injury or other losses relating to the use of the Premises and any activities conducted thereon and agrees that the release and hold harmless provisions of this Agreement shall also apply to any activities of Guest and invitees and agents on the Premises.

22. Miscellaneous:  This Agreement is governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas.  The parties designate the courts located in the Texas county in which the Premises is located as courts of proper jurisdiction and venue with respect to any action or controversy under the Agreement and waive any defenses to jurisdiction and venue with respect to any actions brought in such courts.  This Agreement is binding upon and inures to the benefit of and is enforceable by the parties to this Agreement and their respective successors and assigns. Except as otherwise set forth herein and including other documents referenced herein, Agreement constitutes the entire agreement of the parties and supersedes any prior agreements and understandings, whether oral or written, between them with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement.  The headings of this Agreement are for convenience only and will not control or affect the meaning or construction of the provisions of this Agreement.  This Agreement may not be terminated, modified, or amended orally or by any course of conduct or usage of trade except by an agreement in writing duly executed by the parties.  Any waiver of a breach of any provisions of this Agreement is limited to the particular breach and should not be deemed to be a continuing waiver of the same breach and should not be deemed a waiver of any other provision of this Agreement.  If any portion of this Agreement is determined to be unenforceable or invalid, the remainder of this Agreement remains binding and effective against all parties and their respective successors and assigns. All representations, warranties, covenants, and agreements in or under this Agreement, and in any other documents executed or delivered pursuant to this Agreement or in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, survive the execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement.  

Guest Signature: _________________________ Date: ___________

Printed Name: ___________________________

Host Signature (if applicable): _________________________ Date: ___________