Protecting your property while keeping things clear and simple for your guests is essential. A security deposit can help you cover costs from damages or unexpected situations during a guest's stay.

How to Configure a Security Deposit

Getting Started

1. Log in to your Holidu Account

Open your account and select the property you want to configure a security deposit for. If you have more than one property, you will need to set the deposit for each one individually.

Configuring Your Security Deposit

2. Navigate to Configuration

• On the upper left side, select "Configuration"
• Click on the "Pricing" section

3. Set Up the Security Deposit

• Scroll down to "Additional Fees" and select "Edit"
• In the pop-up window, add or update your security deposit amount
• Click "Save" to apply it to your property

How to Collect a Security Deposit

Always communicate your chosen method of collection to your guests in the arrival information so there are no surprises on the day.

Payment Methods

• Cash on Arrival: Request the security deposit in cash when the guest arrives. This straightforward method ensures the deposit is collected before check-in
• Bank Transfer: Ask for a bank transfer a few days before the guest's arrival. This method requires advance planning and clear communication
• Payment Apps: Consider using payment apps such as Bizum (Spain), Swikly (France), or PayPal. Other apps are available locally that may suit your needs

Important Considerations

• Flexibility for Guests: Not all guests will be able to use a bank transfer or app, especially those traveling from different parts of the world. Offering the option to pay cash on arrival is advisable. Find a solution that works for both you and your guests
• Prior to Check-in: We recommend ensuring the security deposit is received before allowing guests to check in
• Existing Bookings: Bookings made before your configuration change are not affected. You cannot ask for an amount different from the one configured at the time the guest booked
• Airbnb Bookings: For bookings made through Airbnb, the security deposit is not applicable – it is handled entirely by Airbnb. It is strictly forbidden to charge any security deposit to Airbnb guests
• Booking.com: On Booking.com, you may see that the security deposit must be collected via bank transfer 7 days before check-in. However, hosts are still free to collect the security deposit in cash if they prefer. You can collect the payment when the guest arrives

Security Deposit Refunds

Return the security deposit once the property has been inspected and found in good order, typically during checkout or a few days after. Please note: the security deposit must be returned no later than 14 days after check-out.

Looking for Stronger Protection?

Holidu Protect is a damage protection service that eliminates the need to manually collect a deposit. For €3 per booked night, your property is covered for guest damages up to €50,000 – across all supported booking channels, including Airbnb. Security deposits can be a booking hurdle for guests; Holidu Protect removes that friction while giving you better coverage. Learn more about how to activate or deactivate Holidu Protect. Note: activating Holidu Protect automatically disables the security deposit for that property.

By following these guidelines, you can keep the transaction process clear for both you and your guests while protecting your property. Thank you for hosting with Holidu.