North East Escapes: Damage Waiver Terms & Conditions

These terms govern the Damage Waiver (“Waiver”) provided by North East Escapes to Guests in connection with holiday let bookings. North East Escapes may amend, modify, or update these terms at any time at its sole discretion. Any changes will become effective immediately upon posting on the North East Escapes website. Continued use of the Waiver constitutes acceptance of any updated terms.

1. What the Waiver Is

1.1. In return for payment of £25 per booking, we protect the homeowner from  Accidental or Malicious Damage to the Property and/or its contents caused by the Guest during the Booking, up to a maximum of £250.

1.2. The Waiver amount and details will be clearly outlined within the booking terms and conditions.

2. How the Waiver Works

2.1. The £25 Waiver fee is included in the total booking cost and will be presented to the Guest during the booking process.

3. Claims and Minimum Value

3.1. The Waiver covers claims made by the property owner for Accidental or Malicious Damage caused by guests, up to £250 per booking.

• Minimum Claim Value: No claim will be accepted for individual items valued at less than £50.
• Maximum Coverage: The total amount recoverable under the Waiver is limited to £250 per booking.

4. Exclusions and Limitations

4.1. The Waiver does not cover:

• Cosmetic Damage (scratches, scuffs, marks, or dents that do not affect the functionality or appearance of the property)
• Wear and Tear
• Acts of Nature (such as storms, floods, or other natural events)
• Theft, unless supported by a police report and evidence as described in the definitions

4.2. North East Escapes reserves the right to inspect the property and assess any claims for damage.

5. Definitions

• Accidental Damage: Unforeseen and unintentional damage to the Property, its fixtures, fittings, or contents caused by the Guest during the Booking.
• Malicious Damage: Intentional damage to the Property, its fixtures, fittings, or contents caused by the Guest during the Booking.
• Cosmetic Damage: Damage that does not adversely impact the functionality or appearance of the property.
• Wear and Tear: Gradual deterioration of the property’s fixtures, fittings, or contents through normal use.
• Acts of Nature: Events such as storms, floods, or other natural disasters.
• Booking: A confirmed stay booked through North East Escapes.
• Property: The holiday accommodation and its contents, as described in the booking.

6. Claims Process

6.1. The property owner must notify North East Escapes of any damage within 72 hours of the Guest’s departure.

6.2. North East Escapes will assess the claim and will always request supporting evidence (such as photographs of the damage, purchase receipts, and/or quotes for like-for-like replacement).

6.3. If the damage is determined to be covered by the Waiver and exceeds the minimum claim value, North East Escapes will process the claim up to the maximum limit of £250.

6.4. Successful claims will be paid to the owner within the following month’s owner statement.

6.5. For claims where the relevant guest damage exceeds £250, North East Escapes will pay the first £250 but assumes no responsibility for pursuing additional funds. The owner is responsible for claiming via home insurance or pursuing the guest through the small claims court.

7. General Terms

7.1. If any clause in these terms is found to be unenforceable or invalid, this will not affect the enforceability or validity of the remaining clauses.

7.2. These terms, and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with them or their subject matter or formation, shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. The Guest agrees to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.