How does the security deposit / damage deposit managed by Roomlala work?

The security deposit (also called a damage deposit) is a sum intended to cover any potential damage noted at the end of a stay. On Roomlala, it can be managed directly by the platform, which simplifies things for everyone. Here’s how it works, from setup to reimbursement.

1. What is a security deposit managed by Roomlala?

It's an optional sum that the host can request from the tenant in addition to the rent. Its purpose is to cover any potential damages, uncompleted cleaning, or missing items at the end of the stay. Unlike a traditional deposit given in person, here Roomlala collects, holds, and returns it according to clear rules.

This system applies only to short-term rentals.

2. Who sets the amount?

It is the host who chooses, when creating or modifying their listing, whether they wish to activate a security deposit and for what amount. The amount is limited to a maximum of 2 months' rent equivalent.

The tenant sees the deposit amount clearly displayed on the listing as well as in the summary before confirming the booking.

3. When does the tenant pay the deposit?

The security deposit is paid independently of the stay: it is not part of the booking payment. Once the booking is confirmed, Roomlala sends the tenant an email inviting them to pay the deposit.

Payment can be made at any time after confirmation, and no later than before the start of the stay. The tenant can find the deposit details and the payment button on their booking in the My Bookings section.

This is an actual debit from the credit card, not just a credit card pre-authorization: the sum is transferred to a dedicated Roomlala escrow account, separate from the rent.

4. During the stay: a sum set aside

Once the deposit is paid, it remains held by Roomlala for the entire duration of the stay. It is neither paid to the host nor returned to the tenant. It serves solely as a guarantee in case of an issue noted upon departure.

5. After departure: automatic reimbursement within 15 days

If no claim is filed by the host, the deposit is automatically refunded in full to the tenant within 15 days after the end date of the stay. The reimbursement is made to the credit card used for the initial payment.

Both the tenant and the host receive a confirmation email as soon as the refund is issued.

6. In case of damage: the host can file a claim

If the host notices damage, insufficient cleaning, or a missing item, they have 10 days after the tenant's departure to file a claim from My Bookings. They must:

  • Precisely describe the problem observed
  • Indicate the requested amount
  • Attach photos or supporting documents

As long as a claim is pending, the automatic refund is suspended.

7. The tenant's response

Once the claim is filed, the tenant is notified and can:

  • Accept the claim: the requested amount is paid to the host, and any remaining balance is refunded to the tenant.
  • Propose a partial agreement or dispute the claim: the case is then forwarded to our team for arbitration.

8. Roomlala arbitration in case of disagreement

If the host and tenant cannot reach an agreement, our team takes over. We examine the evidence provided by both parties (photos, communications, any inventory reports) and make an impartial decision. The decision can result in a full, partial, or total retention of the deposit.

Once the decision is made, the corresponding amounts are paid out immediately.

9. Key steps at a glance

  • After booking confirmation: the tenant is invited to pay the deposit, independently of the stay
  • Before the start of the stay at the latest: the deposit must be paid and held in escrow by Roomlala
  • During the stay: the deposit remains held
  • Up to 10 days after departure: the host can file a claim
  • Without a claim: automatic refund within 15 days
  • With a claim: tenant's response, then Roomlala arbitration if disagreement

10. Good to know

  • The security deposit is distinct from rent and service fees: it is subject to a separate payment, made by the tenant after the booking confirmation.
  • For long-term rentals with monthly payments, the process is different: the deposit follows the rules specific to this type of rental.
  • Some listings may mention a deposit not managed by Roomlala. In this case, this article does not apply: the terms are to be agreed upon directly between the tenant and the host.

Need help?

If you have any doubts about your reimbursement, wish to file a claim, or if your case is undergoing arbitration, our team is here to assist you. Contact us using the contact form in your account.

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