If you’re an Airbnb host or own a property that you rent out short-term, then it’s important to have a short-term rental agreement. This document can help protect both your and your guests’ rights and responsibilities during their stay. But what exactly is this type of agreement, and how do you make one for your business?
This guide will provide you with all the information you need to create a short-term rental agreement covering everything from payment terms to cancellations. Let’s get started!
What is a Short-term Rental Agreement?
A short-term rental agreement is a type of lease contract between a landlord and tenant for renting property on a short-term basis, usually for 30 days or less. This agreement can be used to rent a vacation home, an apartment, a room in someone’s house, or even a couch.
Short-term rental agreements are most common for higher-end properties to outline the terms and conditions of the rental period. The agreement should follow all applicable State laws, and if the structure were built before 1978, it would require furnishing from the ‘Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form.’
When To Use a Short-term Rental Agreement?
If you’re using an online rental platform like Airbnb, you must create a rental agreement. Not only is it a best practice, but many platforms require it.
A short-term rental agreement can help you in several ways:
- It protects your property: By having a short-term rental agreement, you can establish rules and regulations that help to protect your property. For example, you can state how many people are allowed to stay in the rental unit and what activities are not permitted on the premises.
- It protects your guests: A short-term rental agreement can also help to protect your guests. For example, it can state what amenities are included in the rental price and how any damages will be handled.
- It establishes clear expectations: Having a short-term rental agreement lets you and your guests know what to expect from each other. This can help to avoid any misunderstandings during the rental period.
- It can help you resolve disputes: If there is a dispute between you and your guests, a short-term rental agreement can provide a clear process for how the issue will be resolved.
Things To Include In Your Short-Term Rental Agreement
Every short-term rental agreement will have unique clauses and terms based on the specific rental property and the owner’s preferences. However, some key elements should be included in every short-term rental contract:
- Property details (description of the property and its corresponding amenities)
- Guests (Names of the rental party)
- Rental period
- Check-in and check-out procedures
- Rules and regulations
- Payment details (Rent rate, deposit amount)
- Cancellation, rescheduling, and other policies
- Owner and guest signatures.
How to Write a Rental Agreement for Short-term Stays or Vacation
Follow the steps outlined below to create a short-term rental agreement for your property:
Step 1: Check the Local Requirements
Before you draft your rental agreement, check your area’s local requirements for vacation rentals. In addition, you need to follow specific regulations, such as obtaining a short-term rental license or following certain zoning laws.
Step2: Assess Your Liability
Assess risks associated with short-term rentals and take measures to protect yourself from liability. For example, you may want to consider getting insurance for your rental property. You can also consider creating an LLC for your rental business.
Step 3: Provide Owner and Guest Details
Fill out the owner and guest information with the relevant contact details. This should include the owners’ and guests’ names, addresses, and phone numbers.
Step 4: Describe the Property and Amenities
Mention the property information in your rental agreement. This includes the address, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and any other relevant details. In addition, be sure to list all of the amenities that are included in the rental price, such as:
- WiFi
- Washer and dryer
- Linens and towels
- Swimming pool or hot tub
- Basic cooking supplies
- Parking space
Steps 5: Write the Guest Information
Write the names, ages, and genders of all guests staying at the rental property. In addition, be sure to include the number of guests who will be staying at the property. This information will ensure that the property doesn’t exceed its maximum capacity.
Step 6: Outline the Rules and Policies
In this section, you will need to list all the rules and policies guests must follow during their stay. Clearly state the appropriate policies regarding the following:
- Pets
- Maximum occupancy
- Visitors (non-members of the rental party)
- Smoking
- Damage to property and belongings
- Cancellation
Mention specific penalties like fees or expulsion from the property if these rules are violated wherein the tenant doesn’t comply with the given policy.
Steps 7: Explain Check-in and Check-out Procedures
Include the check-in and check-out procedures in your short-term rental agreement. This should include the timeframes for check-in and check-out, as well as the procedures for key exchange.
Step 8: Include the Payment Details
Your rental agreement should include all payment details, such as the rental rate, deposit amount, and refund policy. It’s important to be clear about when rent is due and the consequences of late payments. In addition, be sure to include a security deposit policy in your agreement.
You should also mention your preferred payment methods, such as cash, check, or credit card. Be sure to include your contact information in case the guests have any questions about the payment process.
Step 9: Sign the Agreement
Make the short-term rental agreement official by having both the owner and guests sign the document. In addition, each person should keep a copy of the agreement for their records.
Create a Short-Term Rental Agreement with DATAMYTE
If you’re looking to streamline the process of creating a short-term rental agreement, consider using DATAMYTE. With our Digital Clipboard, you can easily create and manage short-term rental agreements online. Plus, our platform makes it easy to track and manage your short-term rentals.
The DataMyte Digital Clipboard is a workflow automation software that can help build your short-term rental agreement. With our easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface, you can create a rental agreement in minutes! You can save it and send a digital copy to your client for even more convenience!
With the DataMyte Digital Clipboard, you’ll be able to streamline your rental agreement creation process. So get started by scheduling a demo today!
Conclusion
With a short-term rental agreement, you’ll be able to protect your and your guests’ rights and responsibilities. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be on your way to creating a short-term rental agreement that meets your needs.
