Empowering Guest Choice: Damage Protection Options
Providing flexibility during the check-in process not only improves the guest experience but also ensures your property remains protected. With ChargeAutomation, you can now allow guests to choose their preferred method of coverage: a non-refundable Damage Waiver or a refundable Security Deposit.
Understanding the Options
Before you enable this feature, it’s important to understand how these two components work within your guest journey.
1. The Damage Waiver (Non-refundable Fee)
The Damage Waiver is a small, flat fee paid by the guest.
For the Guest: It offers peace of mind without tying up a large sum of money on their credit card.
For the Host: The funds are collected upfront and are non-refundable, often used to cover an insurance policy premium or a self-insurance fund.
2. The Security Deposit (Refundable Pre-authorization)
The Security Deposit is a temporary hold placed on the guest's card.
For the Guest: No money leaves their account unless damage occurs, but the funds are "frozen" and unavailable for other spending during their trip.
For the Host: Provides a larger pool of funds to claim against for significant damages or house rule violations.
Why Offer Both?
By giving guests the Power of Choice, you reduce friction at the point of payment. Guests who are budget-conscious may prefer the small waiver fee, while those who want every penny back may opt for the deposit. This flexibility often leads to faster check-in completions and fewer support inquiries.
How to Enable Guest Choice (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to configure your "Choice" model within the ChargeAutomation dashboard.
Step 1: Access your Rules
Go to your Auto Payments settings, either on the Global level or the Property level
Step 2: Enable the Damage Waiver Option
Within the Security Deposit settings, look for the toggle for Damage Waiver. Switch this to ON.
Step 3: Define Your Values
Enter the specific amounts for both the Waiver and the Deposit.
Pricing Option: Either Per Stay or Per Night
Waiver Amount: e.g., $50.00
Coverage Limit (optional): e.g., $2500.00
Step 4: What your guests sees
Now your guests can select which protection they want
Need Help?
If you're unsure which amounts to set for your waivers or deposits, reach out to our support team