When you are giving away a part of your property to a guest, it is imperative that you have a detailed booking contract that is thorough and effective at the same time, in order to avoid unpleasant situations. A booking contract not only makes sure that your property is protected by the law, but also presents a professional image in front of the guests, who will in turn take you much more seriously than otherwise. A contract should ideally get just as much importance as the payment as this is mainly for your protection against any unforeseen conditions.

Whenever you are dealing with a booking, make sure that your guest is as aware of his obligations while he stays at your property, as you are of yours as the host, to make their stay as enjoyable as possible. For this to happen, a booking contract is an absolute must. The essentials of a booking contract are as follows:

• Your name and contact information.
• The registered name of your property.
• Full details of the guest.
• The length of their stay.
• Arrival and departure details and any specific departure policies.
• Payment and deposit details.
• Procedure for handing over keys.
• Policies relating to your property must be clearly stated for the perusal of the guests.
• Insurance related information.
• Cancellation policy.

It is also better if you take the help of your legal adviser in preparing the contract, so that your guests are absolutely clear on all counts when they arrive at your doorstep. This is not only a safety guideline for you, but also a sign of a much more professionally run business from the point of view of your guests.