Too MANY Extra Guests not in reservation

[Claudia1162]

I had a booking this weekend for 16 guest (my property sleeps 16). I charge an extra 30 per guest/per night if the numberof people exceeds the number that the property holds (16) the guest knew this since the begening and said there would be no more than 16 people. After the guest checked out and the I noticed the outrageous water usage of almost 5000 gallons of water for just a 2 night stay I reviewed the security videos. I was able to identify a total of 27 people. I requested an extra paymemt from the guest. He accepted full responsability but I am still waiting on payment. can I charge him for extra cleaning and outrageous water usage? Can I claim his security deposit? I cannot believe someone would do something like that... My property runs on rain water and this completely messed up things for my next guest... 

[Helen3]

Hi @Claudia1162

I am sorry to hear this but why on earth did you wait until the guests had stayed to review the security cameras. It is quite common for guests to lie about numbers to save money/book a place with lower numbers.

You should have reviewed the CCTV on check in or at least during the stay. Then you could have told the guest you would cancel the booking as he had exceeded the numbers booked by over 100%.

If you have it in your house rules that you charge for excess water usage over XXX amount you can try putting in a claim.

Similarly if you can show there was extra cleaning, submit a bill from the cleaning company.

If you have a property that is suitable for parties, you do need to be able to monitor it more carefully to make sure people don't abuse it and have comprehensive house rules in place about sanctions if guests come in who haven't booked and paid.

I do hope you have left an honest review so that hosts know about this dishonest guest.