Is it legal to charge a guest for damages or theft from a hotel room?

Question

I have heard many different opinions on this but little strong evidence. If a guest punches a hole in the wall can the hotel charge their credit card for repair? If they steal a coffee maker or bedspread, can the hotel charge them for it without their signature?

Answer 1

Yep. If the hotel has been given the card number to secure and rent the room, that includes fees for any possible damages. I worked at a hotel where the owners were meticulous about collecting charges for broken water glasses, ruined bedspreads, etc. That's partly why they required a credit card, even when the guest was paying cash for the room rental charge.

Answer 2

Read the fine print when you sign in at check in. They certainly can charge you for "souvenirs" and damage. You rented use of the bedspread, you did not purchase it with the room. It is in the check-in contract.

Answer 3

YES...you can be charged for stolen items or damages.
and YES they can charge your credit card without your additional approval....this approval is normally part of the check in process (whether you realize it or not).

behave yourself....conduct yourself as a good adult and you won't get charged.

good luck

Answer 4

In most cases, yes. When you sign into the hotel your actually signing a contract whereby you agree to pay for any damages that may occur during your stay..................

Answer 5

what does your room rental agreement say? you hear about rock stars trashing rooms all the time and having to pay - not sure exactly HOW they get them to pay though

Answer 6

Yes they can... You are reasonable for what happens to the room..

Answer 7

Yes, they can, and yes, they DO.