Short-Term Vacation Rental Agreement Template

A Short-Term Vacation Rental Agreement is a legally binding contract between a property owner (the “Host”) and a guest (the “Guest”). It outlines the terms and conditions of a temporary stay at the property. A well-crafted agreement protects both parties’ interests, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable rental experience.

Key Elements to Include

To create a professional and legally sound agreement, consider incorporating the following essential elements:

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1. Parties Involved

Host Information:

Full legal name

Property address

Contact information (phone number, email address)

Guest Information:

Full legal name

Contact information (phone number, email address)

Number of guests

2. Property Description

Detailed description of the property, including:

Number of bedrooms and bathrooms

Amenities (e.g., pool, Wi-Fi, parking)

Specific features (e.g., fireplace, hot tub)

Any restrictions or limitations (e.g., no pets, no smoking)

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3. Rental Dates and Rates

Check-in and Check-out Times: Clearly specify the exact times guests can arrive and depart.

Rental Rates: Outline the total rental cost, including any additional fees (e.g., cleaning fees, security deposits).

Payment Terms: Detail the payment schedule, including any required deposits and final payment deadlines.

Late Fees: Specify any penalties for late payments.

4. Guest Obligations

Occupancy Limits: Clearly state the maximum number of guests allowed.

Property Care: Outline the guest’s responsibilities for maintaining the property, including:

Keeping the property clean and tidy

reporting any damages or issues promptly

Adhering to any specific rules or guidelines (e.g., noise restrictions)

Liability: Indicate that the guest is responsible for any damages caused to the property or its contents.

5. Host Obligations

Property Condition: Ensure that the property is clean, safe, and in good working order upon the guest’s arrival.

Privacy: Respect the guest’s privacy and avoid unnecessary disturbances.

Emergency Contacts: Provide emergency contact information for the property or local authorities.

6. Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Fees: Specify any fees associated with cancellations, including the timeframe for refunds.

Force Majeure: Outline circumstances beyond the control of either party that may excuse performance (e.g., natural disasters, pandemics).

7. Dispute Resolution

Mediation or Arbitration: Specify a preferred method for resolving disputes, such as mediation or arbitration.

Governing Law: Indicate the jurisdiction whose laws will govern the agreement.

8. Entire Agreement

Clearly state that the agreement constitutes the entire understanding between the parties and supersedes any prior agreements or representations.

Design Tips for a Professional Agreement

Clean and Modern Layout: Use a clean and modern layout with ample white space to improve readability.

Professional Typography: Choose a professional and easy-to-read font, such as Times New Roman or Arial.

Clear and Concise Language: Use clear and concise language, avoiding legal jargon whenever possible.

Bold Headings and Subheadings: Use bold headings and subheadings to organize the content and make it easy to navigate.

Consistent Formatting: Maintain consistent formatting throughout the document, including font size, line spacing, and margins.

Professional Logo: Include a professional logo to add credibility and brand recognition.

Digital Signature: Use a digital signature tool to ensure the agreement is legally binding and secure.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the essential elements, you can create a professional and legally sound Short-Term Vacation Rental Agreement that protects your interests and provides a positive experience for both you and your guests.