Rental Policies

Additional Terms & Conditions

A completed “Vacation Rental Agreement” is required within 24-hours to hold your reservation. The Rental Deposit (50% of the Rental Fee) is due upon receipt. Review and acceptance of the Vacation Rentals of Santa Barbara (VROSB) Terms & Conditions which is made part of this rental agreement is required before a confirmation will be issued. 

RATES
Rates are quoted on a per night, per week or per month basis as noted. Most rates quoted are for a specified number of people (4 for 2-bedroom, 6 for 3-bedroom), additional guests are subject to a per person, per day charge. Charges vary and are subject to change without notice. All properties represented by Vacation Rentals of Santa Barbara come fully equipped with linens, dishes and utensils and an initial supply of soap and paper goods. Other amenities vary per property.

CHECK IN AND CHECK OUT TIMES
Check-in is at 4:00 pm | Check-out is at 10:00 am

Unless otherwise arranged with Agent, the 10:00am check-out time is crucial for the cleaning contractor to perform housekeeping duties. Therefore, please note that unauthorized late check-outs will be subject to a $250.00 charge in the event the contractor’s cleaning crew cannot enter the vacation rental premises.

In an effort to ensure guest privacy, the contractor’s cleaning crews have been instructed not to enter the property while guests’ belongings are still present. This includes personal vehicles. Please ensure that all personal belongings, including vehicles, are off the premises by 10am unless otherwise already agreed upon by Vacation Rentals of Santa Barbara.

ADDITIONAL CHARGES (NOT included in rate):
Rates do NOT include daily maid service (unless noted), gratuities, car rental, food, liquor, laundry, personal items, excessive cleaning upon departure (i.e. upholstery or rug shampooing, etc.). Guest is responsible for such charges, including excessive cleaning fees, if they are assessed.

RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENTS SCHEDULE
Payment of the applicable 50% Rental Deposit amount together with a completed Guest Reservation Application must be received and approved by VROSB before a confirmation will be issued.  No grace period will apply. Final payment, consisting of the remaining balance, must be received by VROSB at least thirty (30) days prior to guest arrival (or immediately if booked less than thirty (30) days in advance of guest arrival). Failure to make final payments on a timely basis will make reservation subject to automatic cancellation.

CONDITION OF RENTAL
The property shall be in the same condition upon departure as at check-in. Normal wear and tear excepted. Owner or its agents may enter the property at reasonable times to make repairs or provide maid service. Guest may cook in areas specifically designated for cooking. Guest must immediately notify Owner or agent of fire or other damage to property. Guest shall be liable for all acts of the family, invitees, employees, or other persons invited onto the property. Guest may not sublet or assign this rental agreement. Guest shall be responsible to return all keys and gate or garage door openers upon departure. Guest shall abide by the House Rules of the Owner, Property Manager, Condominium Association and/or the Booking Agent as provided to Guest. Guests shall not bring any pets onto the property unless agreed to by VROSB (Pet Policy varies by property. See Pet Addendum Below). Guest will not smoke or vape indoors. Guest will rinse feet off sand as well as ocean tar prior to entering the unit. No parties or events of any kind shall be allowed without prior consent. Additional charges may apply. No catering or outside music permitted without prior consent, additional charges may apply. Guest shall not permit any use of pool or Jacuzzi by unsupervised children or other guests, and shall keep gates closed. Guest and other invitees shall use the pool and Jacuzzi at their own risk. Guest understands that there are certain inherent risks to person and property located adjacent to the ocean or to a golf course, including the possibility of drowning or being struck by a golf ball. Guest acknowledges that the owner would not rent the property unless the Guest accepted this condition.

CREDIT CHECK
Please note that some properties may require a credit check. If it is required, you will be notified right away.

PET POLICY
Please note that any other animals, including cats, are STRICTLY FORBIDDEN in any of our homes. Additional fees will apply if evidence of an authorized animal is found in the property.

Only approved dogs are permitted, with prior written authorization. If you have been approved to bring a dog, you are agreeing to the following terms and conditions:

There are only a few specific units in our inventory that accept dogs. The dog must be pre-approved prior to signing the contract, in which case the dog will show as a registered dog above. When booking a pet-friendly unit, please indicate the breed, weight and age of dog and initial above.  Additional pet fees are determined on a case by case basis. IF VROSB authorized a dog- the Pet Fee must be paid in full. If an animal is seen in the unit by one of our staff during your stay and it has not been approved you will be asked to leave immediately and no refund will be given. If residue of an animal is found during our inspection following checkout you will be assessed a minimum $300 cleaning charge.

1. Tenants has been granted permission by VROSB to keep the pet(s) specified under the following terms and conditions:

1.  That the pet will be allowed out of the premises only under the complete control of a responsible human companion and on a hand held leash or in a pet carrier.
2. That any damage to the exterior or the interior of the premises, grounds, flooring, walls, trim, finish, tiles, carpeting, or any stains, etc caused the pet will be the full responsibility of the Tenant and that Tenant agrees to pay all costs involved in the restoration to its original condition.  If because of any such stains, etc said damage is such that it cannot be removed, then Tenant hereby agrees to pay the full expense of replacement
3. It is also understood and agreed that Tenant will permit VROSB to professionally fumigate the premises, including any grounds (if any) for fleas and ticks and clean all carpets when Tenant vacates the premises.  The contractors used will be VROSB’s contractors and the cost will be competitive and borne by the tenant.
4. Tenant will provide adequate and regular veterinary care of pet, ample food and water, and will not leave pet unattended for any undue length of time.  Tenant will diligently maintain cleanliness of litter pans as well as sleeping and feeding areas.
5. It is further understood and greed that if efforts to contact the Tenant are unsuccessful, VROSB or VROSB agents may enter Tenant’s apartment if there is reasonable cause to believe an emergency situation exists with respect to the pet.  Examples of an emergency situation include abuse, abandonment, or any prolonged disturbance.  If it becomes necessary for the pet to be put out for board, any and all costs incurred will be the sole responsibility of the Tenant.
6. Tenant agrees to indemnify, hold harmless, and defend VROSB , agents of VROSB’s, or home owners against all liability, judgments, expenses (including attorney’s fees), or claims by third parties for any injury to any person or damage to property of any kind whatsoever caused by the Tenant’s pet(s).
7. If a dispute arises out of this contract and cannot be settled through negotiation, VROSB and Tenant agree first to try in good faith to settle the dispute by mediation administered either by a local mediator or by the American Arbitration Association under its commercial mediation rules.  If the parties cannot agree on which agency shall administer the mediation VROSB’s choice shall govern.

ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING POLICY 
If you intend on charging any electric or hybrid vehicle(s) at the property during your stay you are agreeing to the following:

1. VROSB must be made aware of the intent to charge electric or hybrid vehicle(s) onsite of rental property. Unauthorized charging of electric or hybrid vehicles will result in a $500 fee, in addition to any excessive utility charges as deemed appropriate by homeowner and VROSB management.
2. An additional e-vehicle charging fee will be due at tenant expense prior to move-in per e-vehicle that will be charged.
3. All parking regulations and restrictions specific to your rental will be abided to during charging of said vehicle(s).
4. If applicable, HOA policies and regulations must be followed in regards to e-vehicle charging. Understand that your request to charge a vehicle may be denied on the basis of these policies.
5. Tenant agrees to indemnify, hold harmless, and defend VROSB , agents of VROSB, or homeowners against all liability, judgments, expenses (including attorney’s fees), or claims by third parties for any injury to any person or damage to property or vehicle of any kind whatsoever caused by the Tenant’s e-vehicle charging or use of vehicle charging accessories.

SECURITY DEPOSIT
All properties require a Security Deposit to protect against any damages to and/or loss of items from the Property and to assure payment of items charged to the Guest Account. The deposit will be held in VROSB’s Trust Account and will be returned, minus deductions, not later than 30 calendar days after the termination of the agreement (typically returned on the Friday after departure). We must give you a written statement at that time explaining any deductions. Deductions can be made for the following reasons: to repair or replace anything that is damaged or missing; to pay any and all amounts due; to replace all keys; additional cleaning expense or to clean excessive dirt (i.e. stained carpets, furniture, walls, appliances, etc.) and put the unit, and the things in it, in the condition when you moved in. If your deposit is not enough to cover all the damages and costs, you must pay the extra amount and you authorize us to charge the credit card provided.

By initialing here, you agree to allow VROSB to charge your credit card provided or provide alternative payment methods in the unlikely event that damages and fees, accessed by VROSB, exceed security deposit. In this event, VROSB will provide clear and accurate evidence supporting the extra fees. You also recognize that additional cleaning fees may be required.

DAMAGE PROTECTION PROGRAM (Optional)
VROSB offers a Damage Protection Program. The Damage Protection Program offered by VROSB covers unintentional damages to the rental unit interior or direct landscaping that occur during your stay, provided they are disclosed to management prior to check-out. The program will pay a maximum amount of $3,000 for approved damages before they are deducted from your security deposit. Exclusions from the Damage Protection Program include: negligent damages, excessive pet damages or damages caused by unauthorized pets, damage due to smoking/ vaping/ drug use or evidence of such, parties or event damages, acts of God, intentional acts, willful destruction of property, normal wear and tear, theft by occupant, guests’ personal property, etc. Certain terms and conditionals apply. By submitting payment for this program, you authorize and request participation in the Damage Protection Program.

EXCESSIVE USE OF UTILITIES
Should utility costs be deemed excessive compared to average costs per month, the guest agrees to pay the excess amount out of their security deposit. For the purposes of this agreement, utilities refers to all services paid for by the home owner that the guest utilities during their stay, including (but not limited to) water, gas, trash, and electricity. This determination is left to the liberty of the home owner and Vacation Rentals of Santa Barbara, though it does take into account occupancy, square footage of home, and various extenuating factors such as season and home features.

Should a guest have an electric or hybrid car that requires on-site charging, it is the guest’s responsibility to notify VROSB of their intention prior to their arrival. For further policies on car charging at the rental property, please see above clause entitled “Electric Car Charging Policy.” Please note that failure to disclose on-site car charging will result in a $500 fee, as well as any other excessive utility charges as deemed appropriate by homeowner and VROSB management.

By initialing here, you agree to pay any excessive utility costs should Vacation Rentals of Santa Barbara and the home owner find it necessary.

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Under no circumstances shall VROSB  be responsible for any loss, expense, damages, claims or injury direct, indirect, consequential or otherwise whatsoever, howsoever caused or incurred whether arising in contract or otherwise in law or equity as a result of rendering of the services or accommodations as described or substituted and including, without restricting the generality of the foregoing as a result of any delay(s), substitution(s), rescheduling(s) or change(s) in the provision of services or land accommodations by VROSB or by reason of military actions, revolution or acts of God, government agencies, or unforeseen circumstances or events, by any agents, owners, employees, subcontractors, servants or services as substituted; VROSB, at all times will act in good faith and use its best efforts to substitute with accommodations or services of a type as comparable as possible to those contracted. VROSB will not be liable under any circumstances, including substitutions, to refund any unused portion of booked accommodations or services. Some activities in which guests engage are especially dangerous and include scuba diving, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, boating, golfing, swimming, boogie boarding, surfing, hiking, biking and mountain climbing. This list is not all-inclusive, but indicates some of the hazards of vacationing in California. Guests may also encounter the following risks: slippery floors and stairs, especially when wet, lanais with spaces between rails (dangerous for little children), precipitous drop-offs on ocean floor, unfenced pools, spas and ponds, faulty electrical or plumbing systems, gas BBQ grills, clean/clear sliding glass doors, and dangerous stairs or pathways. Therefore, each guest agrees that he/she is voluntarily participating in any and all activities (including use of Paddle Board, Surf Board or other beach device provided by property), risks, and use of the accommodations, and hereby assumes all risk of injury, illness, damage or loss to person and property that might result, including, without limitation, any loss or theft of personal property. Any possession or storage of a firearm within the residence must abide to all CA state regulations pertaining; VROSB will not be liable for any violation of these laws or for any injuries or damages caused by said firearm. By booking this property, you acknowledge that in all events and circumstances, VROSB, its officers and employees shall not be liable.  VROSB reserves the right to cancel or rescind any rental agreement if it is found that the Guests are conducting unlawful activities, not abiding by the Home Owners Association House Rules, disturbing others by playing loud music, percussion, audio or instruments, or cause any loud or offensive noises, have made any misrepresentations about the nature or size of the group or use of the group or the use of the property or any other misrepresentations or any other way in breach of the rental agreement.

NOTICE OF ABSENCE
You must tell us in advance if you will be absent from the property for 5 days or more. If you do not give us this notice, you will have to pay for any damage that may result from your absence.

HOLDOVER, ABANDONED POSSESSIONS AND SERVICE OF NOTICES
If you stay in the unit, without written permission, after the Rental Agreement has ended, you will be a holdover tenant and may be liable for twice rent under the Rental Agreement on a prorated daily basis for each day you are a holdover tenant. If you leave any personal property, which we determine to be of value, we must contact you by mailing or email notice. After 20 days, if you do not respond, we may advertise the items for sale or donate them to a charitable organization. If we have to give any notice to you, we can serve it to any occupant. By serving one of you, we have given notice to all of you. If we cannot deliver a notice to you, we may post the notice in a conspicuous place in or on the unit.

INSURANCE
You understand that our insurance does not cover your belongings or damage that you cause. You agree that we are not responsible for any loss or damage during the term of the rental agreement. You agree to carry insurance covering all of your personal property located in the unit or bear full responsibility for its damage including damage from fire, water, theft, or any cause.

CANCELLATION AND REFUNDS
In the unfortunate event you should have to cancel your booking, both the Cleaning Fee and Damage Protection Fee (Trip Insurance is non-refundable) are refundable. Please be aware that the rental fees paid are non-refundable*. We recommend that you consider purchasing Travel Insurance. Please see below for details.

* Per CA SB644, some bookings may be eligible for a free cancellation within 24 hours of the booking being confirmed. Eligible bookings must be: 30 nights or less, made before 72 hrs prior to arrival date, and at the listed rental rate (not negotiated). If you wish to cancel within the 24 hour window of booking confirmation, please reach out to Guest Relations with VROSB. Please note that credit card convenience fees are not refundable.

TRAVEL INSURANCE (Optional)
Travel Insurance-Rental Guardian Vacation Rental Insurance has been made available with your reservation. Vacation Rental Insurance reimburses for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses due to certain unforeseeable circumstances that may jeopardize your vacation investment and force you to incur unplanned expenses.  We strongly recommend you purchase this valuable protection.  If declined, you acknowledge you have read and understand our cancellation policy and choose not to purchase Vacation Rental Insurance on behalf of all occupants. To protect against cancellations caused by certain unforeseen events, such as illness, death, natural disasters, etc., we recommend that guests purchase the Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) Policy, though two different options are provided for your protection.

CATASTROPHIC EVENTS & EMERGENCY EVACUATIONS
If a catastrophe (hurricane, tornado, earthquake, flood, fire, or wild fire etc.) or any situation simply beyond our control impairs the vacation rental, VROSB is not responsible for finding alternate lodging for the renter or for the renter’s financial losses related to transportation or alternate lodging. There will be NO REFUNDS OR CREDITS FOR EMERGENCY EVACUATIONS.  Therefore, we suggest you consider Travel Protection Insurance to secure your vacation investment and eliminate your financial risk. There will be no refunds of any kind for evacuations.

There will be no refunds or rebates given to Renter as a result of unfortunate circumstances outside of Owner or Agent’s control. For example, Agent and Owner shall not be liable for unfavorable weather, acts of God, disruption of utility services, malfunction or breakdown of appliances, or other equipment such as (but not limited to) TVs or blenders.

By initialing below, you are stating that you have read and understand our cancellation and refund policy, in addition to our catastrophic events & emergency evacuations disclaimer. Please feel free to ask VROSB should you have any questions or concerns.

ADDITIONAL POLICIES
Agent shall make repairs as expeditiously as possible after being notified by Renter. Agent and contracted repair professionals, shall have the right to enter said premises during reasonable hours to examine and make such repair(s) as may be deemed necessary for the safety or comfort of Renter. There will be no refund or rebates issued to Renter as a result of the repairs or time required to complete them.

Should Renter breach any of the terms of this Agreement Renter shall be liable for all costs, damages and expenses incurred including reasonable attorney’s fees. In the event that any actions or proceedings are initiated by either party with respect to this Vacation Rental Agreement, the parties agree that venue thereof shall be in the county within which the above described property is located within the State of California.

Upon request of the Renter, any personal items left in and or/on the premises will be returned C.O.D. at Renter’s expense through a mailing service. Shipping and handling fees may be assessed.

No smoking on the premises per California Civil Code section 1947.5. A violation of this policy will result in a $250.00 cleaning charge.

No parties or events allowed without prior approval. Fee may be assessed.

Absolutely no professional videography or photography of the rental or within the premises should occur without explicit approval from Vacation Rentals of Santa Barbara. Additional fees may be assessed.

Please be sure to keep noise at a reasonable level. This noise restriction is mandatory after 10:00p.m. Any infraction of excesses noise could result in loss a $500 fine and/or immediate expulsion from the property.