Five reasons not to rent a holiday home
I have seen a few holiday rental companies and owners write lately, why consumers should rent a holiday home rather than staying in a hotel. All valid reasons; the space, home from home etc, but you know me, I cannot let this opportunity pass to highlight the negative sides of renting a holiday home.

Following on from five things I hate about hotels are five reasons not to rent a holiday home.
No on-site support
It’s 9pm the washing machine has burst a leak, the kitchen is flooded and no one is on hand to be able to deal with your issue. The owner lives a few miles away, and they are not answering the phone. This could quite quickly turn a relaxing holiday in the sun to a nightmare holiday.
Remote locations
While I am not suggesting that all holiday homes are in the middle of no where, most of them are. So, if you do not drive a car, or are not comfortable driving abroad then you could find yourself stranded to the accommodation.
Let’s not forget that car hire is not cheap, especially in places like Spain which has had issues this year.
Lack of financial protection
There is a severe lack of financial protection for holidaymakers who decide to DIY their holiday, to be fair this isn’t just holiday homes. The added concern is will the property exist when you get there. Look at the Moirara villa issue as one recent example. Very few holiday rental sites offer a financial guarantee.
Paying for pool heat
For me paying for pool heat is like paying for a warm shower. While I realise this charge is not inflicted on all consumers, it is used as an additional extra in many of the villas in Florida. I do not think you should have to pay for pool heat, and you don’t at a hotel.
Worrying about the damage deposit
Little Timmy, slides on the polished floor into the stand and the television falls and smashes. There goes your £200 damage deposit. While I understand the need for this type of fee, the deposits vary and can be quite high, so the added worry will mean parents are continuously reminding their children to be careful.
Feel free to add your comments or thoughts about what you do not like about renting a holiday home.
This post was syndicated from the Travel Rants Blog.
Five reasons not to rent a holiday home


