Security deposit policy

Amount

The standard deposit is £300 per booking. If a home uses a different amount it is shown on the property page and at checkout.

How it is taken

• Stays under 7 nights: the deposit is held (pre-authorised) on your card the day before arrival. Nothing is charged; your bank simply ring-fences the amount. The hold is released 3 days after check-out.
• Stays of 7 nights or more: the deposit is charged with your booking and refunded 3 days after check-out, less any agreed deductions.
• If a hold cannot be placed — for example the card has expired — we will email you to update the card before check-in. Access details are only released once the deposit is in place.

Deductions

The Operator may deduct reasonable costs for damage, missing items, excessive cleaning, smoking indoors, unauthorised guests or parties, lost keys, or unpaid charges. You will be sent an itemised explanation, with photos where relevant, before or when a deduction is made. Normal wear and tear is never deducted.

If costs exceed the deposit, the Operator may ask you to pay the difference.

Timing of refunds

Released holds disappear from your statement within a few working days (up to 10 with some banks). Charged deposits are refunded to the original card and normally show within 5–10 working days.

Last updated 3 October 2026.