Holiday let damage deposits: what is normal and

How much should a holiday let damage deposit be

Most UK holiday let owners charge a fixed deposit of £100 to £250 per week, though the amount varies by property type and value. Some owners ask for a percentage of the total rental cost, typically 10 to 20 per cent, which can push the deposit higher for large or luxury properties. Deposits typically range between £100 and £2,000, and the amount should not exceed 20 per cent of the total reservation.

Consumer forums show deposits of £50 for modest properties, £200 to £250 for standard cottages, and £350 or more for larger homes. Agency platforms such as Sykes display deposit amounts of typically £0 to £500, often described as a Good Housekeeping Bond. The deposit is separate from any pet fees or cleaning charges and should be clearly itemised at the time of booking.

Before you pay, check exactly what the deposit covers. Some agencies set deposits as high as £500, refundable within two weeks of departure. If a property demands a deposit well above the normal range for its size and standard, that may signal inflexible terms or a history of disputes.

Pre-authorisation versus a cash deposit: how the two work

Credit card pre-authorisation places a temporary hold on your card for the security deposit amount. When the payment is pre-authorised, you cannot access or spend the reserved funds, and at check-out the deposit is either released or charged as damage fees. Pre-authorisations are popular for short stays but typically expire within 14 to 30 days, so they suit bookings where the checkout and inspection happen quickly.