Effective Date: June 1st, 2025

At NewJersey.Rentals, we give hosts the option to require a security deposit from guests during the booking process. This policy outlines how deposits work, what they're for, and how disputes are handled.

NewJersey.Rentals enables hosts to optionally request a security deposit to help cover potential damages or significant violations of house rules. This policy outlines how deposits are handled, including collection, return, dispute resolution, and related legal considerations.

1. Purpose of Security Deposits

Security deposits serve as a financial safeguard for hosts and are intended to:

• Cover accidental or intentional damage to property or belongings.
• Address substantial breaches of house rules (e.g., unauthorized parties or guests, smoking violations, excessive cleaning needs).
• Ensure responsible guest behavior during their stay.

2. Optional Deposit Setup by Host

• Security deposits are optional and determined by each host.
• Deposit amounts can range from $100 to $1,000.
• The amount (if requested) will be clearly shown to guests prior to completing their booking.

3. Deposit Collection Process

• Security deposits are collected via a pre-authorization hold on the guest’s payment method using Stripe.
• The hold is placed 48 hours prior to check-in and will not be withdrawn unless a host initiates a dispute.
• No manual guest action is needed — the deposit process is automatic within our booking flow.

4. Deposit Return or Hold Process

• Security deposits are charged upfront at the time of booking using Stripe.
• By default, the deposit is automatically refunded 48 hours after checkout if no issues are reported.
• However, hosts have two actions available before the automatic refund:
  • Return Deposit – This will immediately release the deposit back to the guest. Please note that this action is irreversible.
  • Hold Deposit – This will prevent the deposit from being automatically refunded and notify our team to review the case (e.g., in the event of damage or missing items).
• If the deposit is held, the admin will communicate with both parties to resolve the issue. If a refund is agreed upon, the admin will manually process it via Stripe.

5. Dispute Process and Platform Mediation

• If a Hold is initiated, a formal dispute will be opened and reviewed by the NewJersey.Rentals support team.
• Evidence must be submitted by the host, including clear photos, videos, or documentation (e.g., receipts for damaged items, repair quotes).
• Our team will act as a neutral third-party, reviewing all evidence from both sides to make a fair and final determination.
• The review will be completed as quickly as possible, but:
  • If a dispute is not resolved within 30 days, the deposit will be automatically returned to the guest unless legally justified otherwise.

6. Legal & Technical Considerations

• Platform Role: NewJersey.Rentals provides payment and dispute mediation services but does not guarantee recovery beyond the deposit amount.
• Stripe Limitations: As our payment processor, Stripe may have technical restrictions on how long funds can be held. Our platform will follow Stripe’s limits.
• Host Responsibility: Hosts are encouraged to maintain appropriate rental insurance for protection beyond the deposit.
• Chargebacks or Fraud: If a guest initiates a chargeback, we will assist the host through Stripe’s dispute process, but cannot guarantee a positive outcome.

For additional help or questions, email [email protected].