Transfer Guest Damage Liability in Rentals

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Review your lease for guest damage clauses to identify any coverage gaps.
• Draft an agreement stating the guest’s responsibility for property damages.
• Photograph high-traffic areas and valuables before guest arrival to document condition.
• List specific items or areas the guest is responsible for, including fixtures and appliances.
• Include a clause requiring guests to report any damage within 24 hours.
• Obtain the guest’s signature and date on the agreement before giving property access.
• Provide copies of the signed agreement to both guest and landlord.
• Use third-party quotes to estimate repair costs to avoid disputes.
• Specify payment terms and deadlines for reimbursement in the agreement.
• Document all guest communications about damages in writing.
• Include a clause presuming unreported damages at checkout are guest-caused unless disproved.
• Store agreements, photos, and related correspondence in a secure digital folder.