Financial Matters Guest Communications Miscellaneous Podcasts

Important Tips when Retaining Security Deposit

Written by Elizabeth Weedon
5/5 - (2 votes)

We all know the importance of requiring a security deposit and returning it quickly. But often homeowners are unclear about which issues justify withholding the security deposit, whether they need to provide evidence to the vacationer, etc. In his recent podcast, Tyler Pyburn discusses security deposit issues with Elizabeth Weedon from our Homeowner Support Team – including the important questions: What are the ramifications of withholding security deposit funds? And, is it worth it?

Read our blog for more tips on withholding security deposits.

Read the blog

 

About the author

Elizabeth Weedon

Elizabeth Weedon - Although I’ve worked for WeNeedaVacation.com since 2008, I’ve been a loyal homeowner on the site since early 1998, just a few months after the website was launched by the Talmadges. I grew up summering on the Vineyard and managed my family's rental home there since the mid-1980’s. I’m passionately devoted to the Vineyard – and to WeNeedaVacation, which I credit with enabling me to hold onto the special property that has been in our family for nearly a century. An enthusiastic member of the WNAV Homeowner Support Team, I endeavor to keep my finger on the pulse of the Cape and Islands vacation rental industry so that I can provide homeowners advice about how to ensure their booking success with us. With owner Joan Talmadge, I am also responsible for editing and writing much of the text on our website, our monthly newsletters, and Homeowner Blog posts.

2 Comments

  • I talk to my tenants a few days after they arrive to see how it’s going. I dig out of them what needs fixing, offer suggestions for their stay that are personalized based on the conversation, and double down on some of the items I already mentioned in their welcome package. You may wish to consider how much rent you received v. your estimate of the extra electricity.

  • Hi Liz,

    I have kept a security deposit $ 250. or part there of on only a very few occasions. People smashed my glass topped deck table and I kept the whole amount with no objections. Then another family disregarded the instructions to bag garbage, so I had to get someone to come to the house and bag it so the trash co. would take it. I only kept $30. (Sounds petty now).
    But, the last time, I found out that a recent family had installed two window air- conditioners in my home and left them on all day while they were away from the house. I was really scorched about this so I kept $100 back. $50 for each AC. I was very disappointed they took advantage as they did. I’m wondering now, how many others have done this. I now have it written in the lease that no A/Cs are allowed (without prior approval). I have no idea what I should charge to let then bring i A/Cs. Any suggestions.?

    Jerry