Damage & Security Deposit Policy

Security Deposit: A refundable deposit of €1 is required before check-in. This is held as protection against damages, exceptional cleaning requirements, or other charges. It is not a fee — it is returned to you in full when the property is left in good order.

1. The Security Deposit

A refundable security deposit of €1 must be paid to Casa Di Cona no later than 14 days before check-in. The deposit may be paid by bank transfer, PayPal, or credit/debit card via Stripe.

The deposit is held separately and is not treated as part of the rental income. It will be returned to the lead guest within 14 days of departure, less any valid deductions as described in this policy.

2. When Deductions May Be Made

Deductions from the security deposit may be made in the following circumstances:

🏚 Physical Damage

Broken furniture, fittings, or fixtures
Damage to walls, floors, or ceilings
Broken or cracked glassware, crockery
Pool or hot tub damage
Damage to appliances

🧹 Exceptional Cleaning

Deep cleaning above standard level
Stains on soft furnishings or upholstery
Failure to remove rubbish
Heavily soiled bathrooms or kitchen
Outdoor areas left in disarray

📜 Policy Violations

Evidence of indoor smoking
Unauthorised pets on property
Exceeding maximum occupancy
Hosting events without permission
Noise complaints / neighbour issues

🔑 Property Items

Lost or unreturned keys / access cards
Missing items such as towels, linen, or equipment
Consumables used beyond normal allowance
Late check-out without agreement

3. Damage Assessment Process

Pre-Arrival Inspection

Our team conducts a thorough inspection of the property before each arrival and documents its condition with photographs. This serves as the baseline for any post-departure comparison.

Check-out Inspection

Within 24 hours of guest departure, our team conducts a post-stay inspection, comparing the property condition against the pre-arrival record.

Damage Report if Applicable

If damage or exceptional cleaning requirements are identified, we will contact the lead guest by email within 48 hours of departure, providing a detailed description and photographic evidence of each item, along with an estimated repair or replacement cost.

Dispute Period

The lead guest has 5 business days to respond with any objections or counter-evidence. We aim to resolve all disputes fairly and promptly.

Deposit Refund

The deposit, less any agreed deductions, will be returned within 14 days of departure via the same payment method used. If damage costs exceed the deposit, we will invoice the lead guest for the outstanding amount.

4. Cost Assessment

Damage costs are assessed on the basis of:

Repair: Where an item can be professionally repaired to original standard
Replacement: Where repair is not possible or economically viable, costs are based on like-for-like replacement value at current retail prices
Cleaning: Actual cost of professional deep cleaning services above standard end-of-stay clean, which is included in the cleaning fee
Pro-rated depreciation: For older items, a fair pro-rated depreciation may be applied to replacement costs

We will always seek the most cost-effective solution and will provide invoice evidence for all deductions exceeding €100.

5. Accidental vs Deliberate Damage

We distinguish between fair wear and tear, accidental damage, and wilful or deliberate damage. Fair wear and tear is expected with normal use and is not charged. Accidental or negligent damage may be chargeable, and wilful damage may be chargeable in full with the possibility of further legal action.

We understand that accidents happen. If you accidentally damage something during your stay, please report it to us immediately at contact@casadicona.com. Prompt reporting is appreciated and may result in a reduced charge.

6. Items Not Covered by the Security Deposit

The following are not chargeable and are considered normal:

General cleaning covered by the cleaning fee
Minor scuffs or marks consistent with normal use
Natural wear on soft furnishings, fabrics, or paintwork
Consumables within normal usage
Pre-existing defects documented in the pre-arrival inspection

7. Insurance Recommendation

We strongly recommend that all guests hold appropriate travel insurance with property damage coverage. In the event of damage exceeding the security deposit, your travel insurance may cover the additional costs. Keep a copy of your policy accessible during your stay.

8. Disputes

We aim to handle all damage claims fairly and transparently. If you disagree with a deduction, please contact us in writing within 5 business days of receiving our damage report. We will review all evidence submitted and respond with a final determination within a further 5 business days.

If a resolution cannot be reached, either party may refer the matter to mediation before pursuing legal remedies under Greek law.

9. Contact

For any questions about this policy, or to report a damage incident, please contact us immediately:

Casa Di Cona
Lourdhata, Kefalonia 281 00, Greece
Email: contact@casadicona.com
Phone: available after booking (emergency contact available to current guests)