Guests want to cancel then return

[Margot218]

Hello
Guests who are currently renting my apartment for 5 weeks want to break the agreement for 10 days during their stay to do “something else”. Then they want to return and resume the remainder of their stay. They asked I could consider refunding them for those 10 days they won’t be in the apartment. What should I do? Im also heading on vacation in 2 weeks, and have someone on hand to help, but this is actually very inconvenient. It means trying to re-let the apartment while they’re away and pay someone else to do the extra cleaning and check-ins.

[Udo6]

@Margot218, wow, great listing.
Of course, it's hard to judge your situation from afar.

What would I do?

Talk to the guests directly, by phone or even better in person. Consider beforehand how far you are willing to go to accommodate the guests, and then create a common understanding, including your situation. Open communication and mutual understanding often open up possibilities and ways that satisfy both sides.

[Margot218]

Thank you. Yes, I will call them and see if we can reach an agreement. I’m very open to that 

[Debbie210]

Just like the other reply said, Good communication regarding this request is key. 
If you decide to let them leave in the middle of their contract and don’t charge them for the 10 day period, you would still have to charge a cleaning fee. Someone would have to come in , while your place is vacant to make sure all lights are off, the gas stove is turned off etc… basically a safety check. They would be responsible for paying for that service before they would get a refund. 
Good luck to you.