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Booking Policies

Important information for guests and hosts

Geographic Restrictions

Available Countries

Important: TrueBookings is currently available only to users located in the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and United Kingdom

Only individuals located in these countries may access and use our website and services. TrueBookings works hard to expand geographically, but as of now, access is restricted to users in the countries listed above. We reserve the right to verify your location and may restrict or terminate access if you are not located in an approved country.

Individual Accounts Only

Important: TrueBookings accounts are available only to individuals. Company accounts, business accounts, or accounts for any legal entity other than individual persons are not permitted. Each account must be registered to and used by a single individual person. If you are operating on behalf of a company or business, you may not use our platform.

Merchant of Record - Critical Legal Notice

Host is the Merchant of Record

Important: The host is the merchant of record, not TrueBookings.

TrueBookings operates as a marketplace platform, not as a merchant of record. This means:

  • You (the property owner/host) are the legal merchant of record and the legal seller of your accommodation services
  • TrueBookings is NOT the merchant of record - we are a technology platform that facilitates transactions
  • TrueBookings provides platform services and facilitates transactions between you and guests
  • You are responsible for all legal obligations as the service provider and merchant of record
  • All legal and financial responsibilities for the sale of accommodation services rest with you, the host
This distinction is critical: As the merchant of record, you are legally responsible for all aspects of the accommodation service you provide, including but not limited to tax obligations, regulatory compliance, guest relations, and any legal disputes arising from your rental business.

Cancellation Policy

Guest vs Host Cancellations

Important: Different refund rules apply depending on who cancels the booking.

Guest Cancels

  • Follows cancellation policy (Flexible/Moderate/Strict/Super Strict)
  • May receive partial or no refund based on timing
  • No processing fees deducted from refund
  • Refund amount depends on cancellation timing

Host Cancels

  • Guest receives full refund of accommodation (including VAT on accommodation)
  • Service fee and VAT on service fee are not refunded
  • No additional fees deducted from refund
  • Refund processed automatically

Guest Cancellation Policy

When you cancel your booking, the following policies apply based on the property's cancellation policy.

Available Cancellation Policies:
  • Flexible: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before check-in
  • Moderate: Free cancellation up to 5 days before check-in
  • Strict: Free cancellation up to 7 days before check-in
  • Super Strict: Free cancellation up to 14 days before check-in
Important Notes:
  • Your booking is subject to the cancellation policy that was active when you made your reservation
  • If the host changes their policy after your booking, your original policy still applies
  • No refunds are available after check-in time (3:00 PM on check-in day)
  • No processing fees for refunds
Refund Processing:
  • All refunds are processed with no additional fees
  • Full refund amount is returned to your original payment method
  • Refunds are processed automatically within 5-10 business days
  • Example: $100 booking → Full refund amount $100.00
How to request a refund:
  • Use the "Cancel Booking" button in your booking dashboard
  • Or contact support at hello@truebookings.net
  • Refunds are processed within 5-10 business days to your original payment method

Host Cancellation

Hosts can cancel bookings in emergency situations, but this may affect their listing status and ratings.

Host cancellation policy:
  • Hosts must provide valid reasons for cancellation
  • Guests receive full refund of accommodation (including VAT on accommodation) when host cancels
  • Service fee and VAT on service fee are not refunded
  • No additional fees deducted from refund
  • Hosts may face penalties for frequent cancellations
Guest Protection: When a host cancels your booking, you automatically receive a full refund of the accommodation amount (including VAT on accommodation). The service fee and VAT on service fee are not refunded.

Extenuating Circumstances

In certain circumstances, we may allow cancellations outside of the standard policy.

Qualifying circumstances:
  • Natural disasters or severe weather events
  • Government travel restrictions or advisories
  • Serious illness or death in the family
  • Military deployment or government orders
  • Property safety issues or maintenance problems
Note: Documentation may be required to verify extenuating circumstances. Contact hello@truebookings.net for assistance.

Booking & Payment

Reservation Process

All bookings are confirmed instantly upon payment. No host approval is required - your reservation is immediately confirmed.

Booking confirmation:
  • Payment is processed immediately upon booking
  • Booking is confirmed instantly - no waiting for host approval
  • Guests receive confirmation email with property details
  • Host receives notification of the new booking
  • Host contact information is shared 24 hours before check-in

Payment & Fees

We charge a service fee to cover platform costs, payment processing, and customer support.

Fee structure:
  • Service fee: 5% for domestic bookings (host and guest in same country) or 8% for international bookings (different countries)
  • Payment processing: Included in service fee
  • Security deposit: May be required by host (separate from booking fee)
  • Cleaning fee: Set by host (if applicable)
  • Refund processing: No fees (full refund amount returned)

Guest Eligibility & Verification

Age Requirements

All guests must meet minimum age requirements and provide valid identification.

Age and ID requirements:
  • Primary guest must be at least 18 years old
  • Valid government-issued photo ID required
  • ID must match the name on the booking
  • International guests must provide passport or equivalent

Account Verification

We may require additional verification to ensure the safety and security of our community.

Verification process:
  • Email address verification
  • Phone number verification
  • Government ID verification (when required)
  • Payment method verification

Guest Screening

We reserve the right to decline bookings from guests who may pose a risk to our community.

We may decline bookings for:
  • Previous violations of house rules or policies
  • Incomplete or inaccurate profile information
  • History of property damage or disruptive behavior
  • Failure to provide required verification documents

House Rules & Expectations

Guest Responsibilities

Guests are expected to respect the property and follow the host's house rules.

Guest guidelines:
  • Respect quiet hours and neighborhood rules
  • Keep the property clean and tidy
  • Report any damages immediately
  • Follow check-in and check-out procedures
  • Respect maximum guest limits
  • No smoking unless explicitly allowed
  • No parties or events without host permission

Host Responsibilities

Hosts must provide a safe, clean, and accurately described property.

Host requirements:
  • Provide accurate property descriptions and photos
  • Maintain clean and safe accommodations
  • Respond to guest inquiries within 24 hours
  • Provide clear check-in instructions
  • Address maintenance issues promptly
  • Respect guest privacy

Property Address Disclosure - Host Responsibility

Important: It is the host's responsibility to provide the property address to guests, not TrueBookings' responsibility.

While TrueBookings may provide address information through the platform as a service, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring guests receive accurate address information rests with the host.

Hosts must:

  • Provide accurate and complete property addresses in their listings
  • Ensure guests receive the correct address information before check-in
  • Provide detailed check-in instructions including the full address
  • Respond promptly to guest inquiries about property location
  • Update address information if the property location changes
Note: While TrueBookings may display address information on the platform, hosts remain solely responsible for ensuring guests have the correct address and can locate the property. TrueBookings is not responsible for any issues arising from incorrect or missing address information.

Property Standards & Requirements

Property Quality Standards

All properties must meet our quality standards to ensure a positive guest experience.

Property requirements:
  • Clean and well-maintained accommodations
  • Accurate photos and descriptions
  • All advertised amenities must be functional
  • Reliable internet connection (if advertised)
  • Working heating and cooling systems
  • Clean linens and towels provided

Accessibility Standards

We encourage hosts to provide accessible accommodations when possible.

Accessibility features:
  • Wheelchair accessibility (when applicable)
  • Clear pathways and doorways
  • Accessible bathroom facilities
  • Visual and auditory accessibility features
  • Accurate accessibility information in listings

Property Maintenance

Hosts must maintain their properties to ensure guest safety and satisfaction.

Maintenance requirements:
  • Regular cleaning between guests
  • Prompt repair of reported issues
  • Regular safety equipment inspections
  • Seasonal maintenance and updates
  • Emergency contact availability

Safety & Security

Property Safety

All properties must meet basic safety standards and comply with local regulations.

Safety requirements:
  • Working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Fire extinguisher available
  • Emergency contact information provided
  • Safe electrical and plumbing systems
  • Clear emergency exit routes

Guest Safety

Guest safety is our top priority. Report any safety concerns immediately.

Emergency: In case of emergency, contact local emergency services (911 in the US) immediately, then contact our support team.

Community Standards & Anti-Discrimination

Equal Treatment Policy

We are committed to providing equal access to our platform for all users, regardless of their background or characteristics.

Protected characteristics:
  • Race, color, ethnicity, or national origin
  • Religion or religious beliefs
  • Gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation
  • Age or disability status
  • Marital status or family status
  • Political affiliation or beliefs

Host Responsibilities

Hosts must treat all guests equally and may not discriminate based on protected characteristics.

Host requirements:
  • Accept bookings from all qualified guests
  • Provide equal service to all guests
  • Use objective criteria for guest selection
  • Respect guest privacy and dignity
  • Report any discriminatory behavior

Guest Responsibilities

Guests must treat hosts and other community members with respect and dignity.

Guest expectations:
  • Respect host property and privacy
  • Follow all house rules and local laws
  • Communicate respectfully with hosts
  • Report any safety or discrimination concerns
  • Leave honest and constructive reviews

Reporting Discrimination

We take reports of discrimination seriously and investigate all claims thoroughly.

How to report:
  • Contact hello@truebookings.net immediately
  • Provide detailed information about the incident
  • Include any relevant documentation or evidence
  • We will investigate and take appropriate action
Note: False reports of discrimination are also a violation of our community standards and may result in account suspension.

Disputes & Resolution

Problem Resolution

We're here to help resolve any issues that may arise during your stay.

Resolution process:
  • Contact host first for immediate issues
  • Contact our support team for unresolved issues
  • Document all problems with photos and descriptions
  • We may mediate disputes between guests and hosts
  • Refunds may be provided for valid complaints

Review Policy

Honest reviews help our community. Reviews must be based on actual experiences.

Review guidelines:
  • Reviews must be based on actual stays
  • No personal attacks or inappropriate content
  • Reviews are moderated for accuracy
  • Both guests and hosts can leave reviews

Taxes & Fees

VAT and Tax Responsibilities - Host Responsibility

Critical: Hosts are solely responsible for acquiring and paying VAT on their rental income. TrueBookings does not handle VAT registration or payment for hosts.

Hosts are responsible for:

  • Registering for VAT/sales tax in their country if they exceed applicable thresholds - TrueBookings does not do this for hosts
  • Acquiring and maintaining their own VAT registration - this is the host's sole responsibility
  • Paying VAT on their rental income to tax authorities - TrueBookings does not pay VAT on behalf of hosts
  • Filing and paying all required tax returns
  • Complying with local rental tax regulations
  • Maintaining proper tax records and documentation
Important: TrueBookings may collect VAT on behalf of hosts when they exceed their country's VAT threshold, but hosts are still solely responsible for ensuring they are properly registered for VAT and for remitting all collected VAT to their tax authorities. TrueBookings does not register hosts for VAT, does not file tax returns, and does not pay VAT obligations - these are entirely the host's responsibility.

Other Taxes and Fees - Host Responsibility

Hosts are solely responsible for determining, collecting, and remitting any applicable tourist taxes, city taxes, occupancy taxes, or other local taxes required by local law for the rental income they earn.

This includes but is not limited to:

  • Tourist taxes or visitor taxes imposed by local municipalities or governments
  • City taxes or accommodation taxes
  • Occupancy taxes or bed taxes
  • Any other local, regional, or national taxes applicable to short-term rental income
  • Determining the correct tax rates and collection requirements for the property location
  • Collecting these taxes from guests when required by law
  • Remitting collected taxes to the appropriate tax authorities
  • Maintaining records of tax collection and remittance

TrueBookings does not:

  • Determine which taxes apply to rental income
  • Collect tourist taxes, city taxes, or other local taxes on behalf of hosts
  • Remit any taxes to tax authorities on behalf of hosts (except VAT collection as described above)
  • Provide tax advice or guidance on tax obligations
Note: Hosts are solely responsible for understanding and complying with all tax obligations related to their rental income in their jurisdiction. We recommend consulting with a tax professional to ensure full compliance.

Tax Collection

Taxes may be collected on bookings depending on local regulations and host requirements.

Tax information:
  • Local taxes may be added to booking totals
  • Tax rates vary by location and property type
  • Taxes are calculated and displayed before booking
  • Hosts are responsible for tax compliance
  • Guests may be required to pay taxes upon arrival

Additional Fees

Additional fees may apply to your booking depending on the property and services. All fees are set by the individual host.

Common additional fees (typical amounts):
  • Security deposit: Typically $500 (refundable, returned within 7 days if no damages)
  • Cleaning fee: Typically $100 (one-time fee)
  • Pet fee: Typically $75 (if pets are allowed)
  • Extra guest fee: Typically $25 per person per night (beyond base occupancy)
  • Early check-in fee: Typically $50 (if available)
  • Late check-out fee: Typically $50 (if available)
Note: All fees are set by individual hosts and may vary by property. Check the property listing for specific fees before booking.

Payment Processing

All payments are processed securely through our payment partners.

Payment details:
  • Payments processed through Stripe
  • Secure encryption for all transactions
  • Multiple payment methods accepted
  • Automatic currency conversion available
  • Payment receipts provided for all transactions
  • Refund processing: No fees (full refund amount returned)

Legal & Compliance

Local Regulations

All bookings must comply with local laws and regulations, including short-term rental ordinances.

Compliance requirements:
  • Hosts must have proper permits and licenses
  • Properties must meet local safety codes
  • Tax collection and reporting requirements
  • Zoning and land use regulations

Privacy Policy

We protect your personal information and use it only for booking-related purposes.

Data protection:
  • Personal information is encrypted and secure
  • Payment information is processed securely
  • We don't sell your personal data
  • You can request data deletion at any time

Need Help?

Customer Support: hello@truebookings.net

Emergency: Contact local emergency services first, then our support team

Host Support: hello@truebookings.net

Response Time: We typically respond within 24 hours