This Vacation Rental Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into by and between the Owner of the Property (“Homeowner”) and the undersigned individual(s) (“Guest”) as of the date of signature below. This Agreement is legally binding and outlines the terms and conditions for the rental of the Property known as Merry Lakes.

1. Property

The Property is located at Merry Lakes, Essex, United Kingdom. It includes residential structures, recreational facilities (including but not limited to a swimming pool, sauna, gym, tennis court, wine cellar, and lake), and approximately 13 acres of surrounding land comprising gardens, paddocks, and woodland.

2. Maximum Occupancy

Overnight occupancy is limited to 16 guests, including children. While the property can comfortably host more people during the day, any additional overnight guests must be approved in advance in writing. Please also let us know ahead of time if you’re expecting any daytime visitors. Additional fees may apply for larger gatherings.

3. Term of the Lease

The term shall commence at 3:00 PM on the Check-in Date and terminate at 11:00 AM on the Check-out Date. Failure to vacate the Property by the check-out time without written consent may result in additional charges.

4. Cancellation Policy

• 100 % of all prepaid amounts are refundable if cancelled 60 days before arrival or earlier.
• 50 % of all prepaid amounts are refundable if cancelled 45 days before arrival or earlier.
• 0 % of all prepaid amounts are refundable if cancelled within 45 days of arrival.

5. Payment Policy

• 50 % of the total rental amount is due at the time of booking.
• An additional 30 % of the total rental amount is due 90 days before arrival.
• The remaining balance is due 45 days before arrival.

6. House Rules and Use of Premises

• Smoking: Prohibited inside all structures. Smoking is allowed in designated outdoor areas using provided ashtrays. Caution must be exercised near the gas cupboard (signposted).
• Pets: Not permitted.
• Parties and Events: Events and gatherings are permitted only with prior written approval from the Homeowner. Failure to declare a party or event will result in immediate termination of the stay without refund.
• Energy Use: Please switch off lights and appliances when not in use.
• Waste Disposal: Bagged waste must be placed in the bins behind the garage. A team member will arrange collection on Wednesdays.
• Heating: The property features central heating. Guests may adjust within reasonable limits. Excessive energy use may incur additional charges.
• BBQs: Disposable BBQs are not permitted on grassed areas. A charcoal BBQ and a designated BBQ pit by the lake are available. Only disposable trays may be used with the BBQ pit.
• Fires: Bonfires are prohibited. Designated firepits may be used with provided firewood, kindling, and firelighters. Do not use accelerants or consume alcohol while operating firepits.
• Cleaning Services: Cleaning is available upon request. Please contact the team to schedule.
• Refillable Products: Guests must not remove any refillable toiletry or cleaning products, including Method products provided in reusable dispensers.
• Welcome Items: Guests may enjoy provided welcome gifts but must not remove the basket or decorative tags.
• Extra Guests: Any additional visitors must be declared in advance, including expected visit duration.
• Pool Area: No glassware permitted in or around the pool. Additional safety signage must be reviewed upon entry.
• Keys: Internal door and window keys must remain in place.

7. Right of Entry

The Homeowner or authorized personnel may enter the Property with at least 24 hours’ notice for inspections, repairs, or emergencies. In emergency circumstances, notice is not required.

8. Insurance

Guests are encouraged to obtain travel insurance to cover unforeseen events that may disrupt travel or the stay.

9. Payment Methods

Payments may be made by credit/debit card, PayPal, or bank transfer via your Online Travel Provider, Merrylakes.com or the ChargeAutomation Guest App. Manual payment instructions will be provided if applicable.

10. Security Deposit and Damages

A £500 Security Deposit (per authorization hold on the guest’s credit/debit card) is required prior to check-in via Stripe. This deposit covers any damage, loss, or extraordinary cleaning charges beyond normal wear and tear. The Guest indemnifies the Owner for any damage caused by the Guest or their party, and the Owner may use all or part of the deposit to repair or replace such damage. Remaining balances will be refunded after inspection.

Chargeable Incidents (Examples):

• Damage to furniture, fixtures, appliances, or electronics (e.g., broken furniture, stained upholstery, smashed dishes).
• Lost or damaged keys and security devices (e.g., failure to return keys, locksmith costs).
• Ruined, soiled, or missing linens and towels requiring replacement.
• Excessive cleaning required (significant spills, stubborn stains, foul odors).
• Misuse of amenities (BBQ, firepit) resulting in scorch marks or grease damage.
• Damage to pool or recreation items (broken pool furniture, filters).
• Stains or damage to interiors (wine stains, burns on surfaces).
• Landscaping and outdoor damage (damaged lawns, flower beds, fencing).
• Any other material damage or loss caused by the Guest’s negligence.

Inspection and Notification

The Owner will inspect the property within 48 hours of check-out and notify the Guest within 5 days of any damage with documentation (photos, videos) and itemized costs. Receipts or professional quotes will be provided whenever possible.

Deposit Deductions and Additional Charges

If damage is confirmed, the Owner may deduct repair/replacement costs from the £500 deposit. Any excess charges beyond £500 will be invoiced to the Guest, payable within 7 days. The Guest authorizes charges to the card on file or direct reimbursement.

Disputes and Governing Law

The parties agree to attempt good-faith resolution of any disputes. This Agreement is governed by the laws of England and Wales, with jurisdiction in the English courts. UK consumer protection guidelines apply, and no penalty fees for fair wear and tear will be imposed.

Entire Agreement

This Agreement (including any schedules or attachments) constitutes the entire understanding between the parties and supersedes all prior negotiations. Any amendments must be in writing and signed by both parties.