We thought this was an amazing property to rent. We abided by all the Listed Rules, setting the dishwasher and laundry of towels before leaving, etc. We were 6 adults with 3 minors for 6 nights from June 1st to June 7 th. We used the bedrooms, bathrooms, pool, hot tub, and bbq. Apparently the bbq, (which was originally placed up against the side of the house) was too close to the window and we used it to bbq steak for dinner every 2nd night of our trip), was too close to the window and burned and melted the window shut (?) (Unconfirmed as they refused us physically checking this fact, we were still in town). We were conversing with the owners to resolve this reasonably, however after no response for a few hours and 10 hours after checking out, were notified through vrbo that were were to be charged the full damage deposit. We will be charged $1,000.00 CAD for apparently bqq’ing too close to the window. I was not going to disclose this in my review but the floors were filthy, we took off our shoes when arrived and our feet were black within a few minutes. We thought maybe it’s the cottage charm? The pool was supposed to be open but the first day we arrived and it was not. That could have been specified before we arrived as we booked this trip at least three months beforehand.
We were told not to move things around in the detailed list of rules. It is not reasonable to assume what temperature ppl bbq at if it’s well within the limits of the bbq. We assume that given the position of the bbq, they were comfortable with the risk it posed to the window or they should have it in a different location or told us to move it while in use or told us not to exceed a certain temperature or the bbq. The bbq was placed at the exact same place as the advertised listing. I don’t believe this is a fair damage charge as even the fine print for this listing includes that we should not move any major furniture, appliances or equipment.
I am an avid traveller and rent hotel rooms, apartments and houses all over the world using different sites and apps. This has by far been the most stringent booking I have ever entered into. I DO NOT recommend entering into a rental contract for this property let alone the owners. This is NOT normal course business.
