Rental Policy

DEPOSIT AND PAYMENTS: 50% of your reservation is due within 24 hours of your reservation. The total is due 30 days before your check-in date. If you have a credit card on file, it will be charged automatically unless other payment arrangements are made. Please review your reservation and ensure all the information, including check-in and check-out dates, is correct. If you do not make your final payment 30 days before your stay, you will be charged a $100 late payment fee.

PAYMENT TERMS: All major Credit Cards are accepted. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. Checks are reserved types of payment for long-term reservations only.  There is a $50 charge for all returned checks, plus the cost of collection. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: If, due to an Act of God or unforeseen circumstance, the Owner’s property becomes unavailable for rental to the Guest, the Owner’s liability shall be limited to refunding any deposits or rental amounts previously paid.

  1. 60+ Days Before Arrival:

    • Cancellation Fee: $100 (deducted from your original deposit).
  2. 59 to 30 Days Before Arrival:

    • Cancellation Fee: $200 (deducted from your original deposit).
  3. 29 to 0 Days Before Arrival:

    • No refund: The entire amount paid will be retained.
  4. Option to Reschedule Without a Cancellation Fee:

    • You can change your booking dates once for the same property.
    • The new dates must be within six (6) months of the original reservation.
    • Rescheduling must be done before the final payment is due (30 days before arrival).
    • Note: Seasonal rate differences may apply.
  5. Final Payment Deadline:

    • No changes or cancellations are allowed after the final payment (30 days before arrival).
  6. No Refunds for Early Departure or Weather Issues:

    • We do not refund for early departures or weather-related issues.
    • We recommend considering travel insurance to cover these eventualities.

Travel insurance can offer additional peace of mind, especially for unforeseen circumstances.

TRAVEL INSURANCE (OPTIONAL): Tybee Cottages has partnered with Red Sky Travel Insurance to provide Sun Trip Preserver® coverage for our guests, available to all guests up to the final payment, 30 days before arrival. Once insurance is purchased, it is non-refundable. Sun Trip Preserver provides cancellation and interruption services, emergency assistance, and travel services. Protect yourself in the event of hurricane evacuations and family emergencies such as illness or death in the family. The travel insurance is optional, costing 7.75% of your total reservation stay. To learn more about Sun Trip Preserver or to file a claim, please visit https://www.trippreserver.com/products/sun-trip-preserver/.

SEVERE WEATHER AND HURRICANES: We do not refund rents or deposits lost due to canceled or shortened stays because of weather. We do not allow cancellations, refunds, or rescheduling due to an impending storm or hurricane, hurricane watch or warning, voluntary evacuation, or mandatory evacuation. We do not allow cancellations, refunds, or rescheduling due to canceled flights, closed travel routes, or travel delays and interruptions. Early departures due to inclement weather do not warrant a refund of rent or deposit. We strongly suggest purchasing travel insurance for stays during the hurricane season (June - November).

CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT: The rental period begins at 4 p.m. on the day of arrival and ends at 11 a.m. on the day of departure unless prior arrangements have been made. Early check-ins or late departures without prior approval from Tybee Cottages will incur an extra charge of $100. The properties are professionally cleaned and inspected before and after each rental to ensure all guests have a clean, comfortable stay. Please be thoughtful of renters who may check in on the same day you checkout. Occasionally, delays may occur during peak season. Early check-ins or late check-outs may be available for purchase 24 hours before the start or end of your stay for a small fee. Before that time, no early check-ins or late check-outs will be sold or granted as we have many last-minute bookings. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate same-day requests for early check-in or late check-out. 

CABLE AND INTERNET: Most of our homes provide free access to cable or satellite television, and all of our homes provide wireless internet to our guests, but the internet and cable in Savannah can sometimes be unreliable. Since this issue is out of our control, we cannot guarantee access to the internet or cable. We will do our best to restore service if there is an outage, but we cannot guarantee that nor can we compensate guests experiencing an outage. We also cannot guarantee any specific channels will be available since that decision is left up to our homeowners. A few of our homes do not have satellite or cable but have smart TVs instead, where guests may have to log into their streaming apps for viewing. 

DAMAGE PROTECTION POLICY: The Rental Unit Damage Protection Fee covers unintentional damages to the rental unit interior/exterior that may occur during your stay, provided they are disclosed to management before check-out. The Policy will pay for a maximum of $1,000. Any damages that exceed $1,000 will be charged to the credit card on file or any other legal means of payment necessary.  The Damage Protection Policy does not cover damage or loss that is not disclosed. To avoid erroneous blame, immediately notify our staff if anything is amiss when you check in and arrive at the home. Before, or immediately upon, vacating the home, you must inform our staff if any incidents of loss or damage occurred during your occupancy.  The Damage Protection Policy does not replace or negate your responsibility for all members of your party as a primary renter. It does not pay for any act of intentional or negligent destruction, pet damage, re-keying, property damage resulting from a motorized vehicle, additional cleaning if the home is left excessively dirty, or invoices associated with your rental that may be presented after your occupancy.  Guest is financially responsible for all costs associated with repair and replacement of damage and loss caused by actions and events outside of those allowed under the Damage Waiver Fee. The Damage Protection Policy is offered, administered, and funded solely by Tybee Cottages. We are authorized to determine any damage's nature, extent, and expense.

DAMAGE AND CLEANING ISSUES: Any damage or cleaning issues noticed upon arrival should be immediately reported to Tybee Cottages management. All general maintenance issues should also be reported to keep the unit in good repair. You must contact Tybee Cottages to address any cleaning issues upon your arrival. You will not incur any additional charges if the following items are adhered to:

To ensure a smooth check-out process and avoid potential charges, please adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. No Damage to the Unit:  Ensure the unit and its contents, including linens, remain undamaged.

  2. Inventory Integrity: All items must be present at check-out as per the inventory list. Do not transfer items between units.

  3. Waste Disposal:  Dispose of all debris, garbage, and discards in the designated containers.

  4. Dish Cleaning:  Place all soiled dishes in the dishwasher.

  5. Occupancy Limits:  Do not exceed the maximum occupancy limit of the unit.

  6. No Smoking:  Adhere to the non-smoking policy within designated non-smoking units.

  7. Furniture and Orderliness:  Leave the unit tidy and ensure the furniture is in its original place.

  8. Pet-Friendly Units:  In pet-friendly units, avoid pet damage and ensure no excessive cleaning is required.

Adhering to these guidelines helps us maintain a high-quality standard for all guests. Thank you for your cooperation!

If additional labor hours are required to clean the home due to your use you will be charged an additional fee commensurate with the hours required to clean.

EVENTS: Our homes are not permitted to hold events. By reserving any of our homes, you agree not to hold any event without prior authorization. An event is any gathering of people over the home's maximum occupancy. If a guest is found to have held an unauthorized event in the home as defined above, they are subject to immediate eviction with no refund. Guest is prohibited from bringing in additional furnishings and/or vendors without prior authorization, even within the occupancy limits of a home. Additional fees may apply to exceptions granted. 

AGE RESTRICTION: All renters must be over 25 years of age unless it is a child accompanied by a parent or otherwise approved by Tybee Cottages. This age minimum increases to 28 during the St. Patrick's Day Season. If a guest is found to have falsified their reservation in any way, we reserve the right to evict the guest, cancel their reservation, and retain ALL DEPOSITS PAID TO THAT POINT.

 NO SMOKING: Smoking is prohibited in any of our units or on any of the properties, including courtyards, decks, and balconies. A $500 fee will charged if evidence is found in your home. 

PET POLICY: (Allowed in Pet-Friendly Units Only): At this time, we can only welcome your dog companions and ask that you find other arrangements for cats, birds, and other furry friends. A maximum of two pets is allowed in each unit, and a pet weight limit of 35 pounds unless otherwise approved by Tybee Cottages. There will be a $130 fee for up to 2 pets. Guest pets must be treated for fleas and ticks before arrival. Guests must pick up after pets and tightly tie the remnants in a plastic bag if staying in a Pet-Friendly Unit. Pets are not allowed on the furniture, and all pet hair must be cleaned up before departure. A $150 fee will be charged if there is any report of pet hair on bedding and sofas. If your home has a courtyard, please do not let your pet use it as a bathroom. This can destroy landscaping and is unsanitary for future guests. Violating any terms of this pet policy subjects the guest to additional fines or termination of the rental period. Guest pet policies and unit availability are subject to change per county and association rules and regulations at any time. Guests are reminded the City of Tybee Island has a leash law that requires all dogs be on leashes whenever they are outside and not in a fenced area. You are responsible for maintaining control of your dog to ensure the safety of others. Please be considerate and pick up your pet waste to dispose of properly. Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle; it is illegal, your pet may be removed to Animal Control at 78 Van Horn, and you could face a citation. And, just like at home, a barking or whining dog disturbs the neighbors.  Dogs are not allowed on any of Tybee’s beaches at any time. 

PARKING: Many of Tybee’s homes were constructed before the widespread use of automobiles, and some properties do not have garages or large driveways. Each home has a parking limit that varies according to the number of designated off-street parking spaces available.  Guests are asked to only park in assigned spaces and to not park in City right-of-ways, or blocking neighboring driveways or streets. Cars blocking access can be towed.  Legal street parking spaces are available on a pay-to-park first- come-first-serve basis and public parking rules are enforced 365 days per year. The number of parking spaces designated for your home is included in the listing and in your guest app. 

NO FILMING OR COMMERCIAL USE: Units are available only for lodging, and all commercial use is strictly prohibited. Commercial photography and/or filming are prohibited in our units without our express written consent and permission from Tybee Cottages. (If an exception is approved, additional conditions and fees may apply.) Homes are not available for sublet. 

LOST ITEMS OR LEFT ITEMS: The guest is solely responsible for any lost, stolen, or abandoned possessions or items.  Management assumes no responsibility or liability for lost, stolen, or abandoned items or the condition of said possessions or items. Upon discovering possessions or items not originally in the rental unit, Management will make a reasonable effort to contact the Guest for a return. The guest is responsible for paying for full shipping costs and a $15.00 handling fee.  Any items not claimed for longer than 30 days may be disposed of.

UTILITIES: No compensation will be given for a temporary water, electricity, or gas outage. Outages will be reported immediately, and efforts will be made to have services restored as soon as possible. The operation and maintenance of these utilities are out of the control of Tybee Cottages. If an outage cannot be restored, Tybee Cottages has the right to substitute rental properties (see Right to Change Rental Accommodations) for the remainder of the reservation or until the utilities are fully restored, whichever occurs first.

MAINTENANCE: Please promptly report any maintenance problems to Tybee Cottages during your stay. Please do not leave doors or windows open while the A/C or heater operates. Tybee Cottages’ staff may enter the property to respond to any maintenance and/or housekeeping issue(s) during your stay. Elevators cannot be guaranteed and, therefore, may not be available. All homes will be fully functional at check-in. Still, we cannot guarantee the absence of mechanical failure of appliances, TVs, HVAC, etc., during your stay, and refund or rate adjustments cannot be made for any mechanical failure should it occur during your stay.

CONSTRUCTION: On Tybee Island, renovation of existing historic properties, new construction, and road repair sometimes occurs without forewarning in the area where our vacation rentals are located and is beyond our control. Tybee Cottages is not liable for any guest annoyance due to construction in the neighborhood or nearby our guests' vacation rental property. We cannot make refunds or relocate guests due to the inconvenience of construction or repairs.

PEST CONTROL: Because we’re located in the humid, sub-tropical climate of Savannah, Georgia, there is always the possibility of a guest encountering various pests and critters indigenous to our location and/or potentially present in any lodging establishment, including, but not limited to: birds, snakes, palmetto bugs, bed bugs, ants, bees, spiders, mosquitoes, sand gnats, and no "see ums,"  microorganisms and so forth. Tybee Cottages and/or Owners provide regular and precautionary pest and animal control treatment at all properties. Although we clean, sanitize, and treat our homes regularly, no amount of prevention can 100% eliminate the possibility of an encounter. Guests agree to hold Tybee Cottages harmless for encountering any pests or critters outside or inside their rental home. Tybee Cottages will make every effort to address pest control concerns reported during the stay but is not responsible for refunds due to pests or in the event of untimely service by pest control companies. 

 RIGHT OF SERVICE: Tybee Cottages reserves the right to refuse service to anyone.  All rental properties are leased regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap, or sexual orientation. 

LISTINGS AND PRICING: The Guest is responsible for reviewing the property description, photos, location, and amenities listing online for this property to confirm that it will meet the needs of your group.  Information regarding individual listings is believed to be accurate but cannot be guaranteed. We have made every effort to ensure that all the information on each listing is current and accurate.  The possibility of errors and omissions exists. We will be happy to confirm all data contained herein or answer any questions you may have before booking your reservation. Rates for holidays, special events, and weekends may be higher.  Rates do not include taxes and fees and are subject to change. Rates, furnishings, fees, and taxes are subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to correct rates that may have been misquoted due to human error, negligence, or computer error.

THIRD PARTY SERVICE FEES: Some third-party booking sites (i.e., HomeAway/Vrbo, Airbnb, Marriott Homes and Villas, Expedia, Booking.com, etc.) assist in matching Tybee Cottages and Guest and may collect booking or service fees as part of the reservation process. This agreement does not cover booking or service fees paid by Guests to third-party booking sites. Tybee Cottages is not responsible for collecting or refunding those fees or any service provided for that fee. Third-party booking sites are not a party to this agreement, even if the Guest pays the rental amount through a third-party booking site.

SIGHT UNSEEN: Our vacation rental units are individually owned and furnished. Though we try our best to advertise our homes honestly and accurately, we will not give refunds or adjustments because a property does not meet your expectations. We manage privately owned vacation homes furnished to the owner's tastes, but no two properties are the same. Rates, descriptions, bed sizes, inventories, and furnishings are subject to change without notice. Neither the rental agent nor the owner will be obligated to provide replacements or give refunds for the failure or absence of any items.

RIGHT TO CHANGE RENTAL ACCOMMODATIONS (SUBSTITUTION): We reserve the right to substitute comparable accommodations without prior notice or liability in the event of a sale of the rental property or if the property becomes unavailable due to maintenance or other problems. We cannot guarantee a specific rental property in the event of unforeseen circumstances that could render the property unsafe or uninhabitable. We will make every effort to contact you before arrival should this happen. When comparable accommodations are unavailable, guests can select from available properties at the comparable published rate or receive a complete refund.

FRAUDULENT LISTINGS: Tybee Cottages does not advertise our homes on Craigslist and will not be held responsible for funds lost due to reservations made through fraudulent listings created with stolen photos of our properties.

**We are fortunate to be able to offer rental homes on Tybee Island, and we mustn't abuse this privilege.  The beauty and character of the area are a direct result of the many full-time residents that live here. We strive to be good neighbors to our locals, just as you would want in your home.  Many communities have placed bans on vacation rental homes, and we must be very careful about giving our local representatives any reason to do so.** COMMUNITY and NEIGHBORHOOD RULES: The guest agrees to abide by the community and/or home rules, which may be posted at the property.  Without instructions specific to your rental, guests must vacate the courtyard or outdoor area by 10:00 p.m. unless they obtain prior approval for a planned event. Failure to do so which results in formal complaints from neighbors or law enforcement, can and may result in termination of the remaining rental period and eviction, with no refunds owed.  

FALSIFIED RESERVATIONS: Any reservation obtained under false pretenses will be subject to forfeiture of advance deposit and/or rental money, and the party will not be permitted to check in.

  1. Maintenance of Rental: Guests are expected to maintain the rental property in good order and appearance, behaving in a manner that is not offensive to neighbors.

  2. Conduct and Compliance: Any tenant violating the terms of the agreement, such as causing damage or disturbance, will be denied occupancy. This includes strict prohibitions against drug use on the premises.

  3. No Disturbance Policy: Guests are not to disturb or endanger neighbors, engage in unlawful activities, or cause nuisance.

  4. Cleanliness and Care of Premises: Guests are responsible for keeping the rental clean, disposing of waste properly, and maintaining the condition of the property's facilities and fixtures.

  5. Indemnification: Guests agree to indemnify Tybee Cottages from any liability, loss, or damage arising from incidents occurring on the premises due to the actions of the guest, tenants, or their visitors.

  6. Limitation of Liability: The rental company is not liable for any loss or damage caused by events beyond their control, such as natural disasters, public service failures, or external disturbances.

  7. No Responsibility for External Factors: The company disclaims responsibility for any alterations to the reservation due to external factors, including but not limited to weather conditions, public service failures, or local disturbances.

CITY OF TYBEE VACATION RENTAL RULES & GUIDELINES:

Please respect the neighborhood and your neighbor’s right to quiet enjoyment of their home.  Loud Music and noise is prohibited. Quiet time: 10pm to 7am, please be a good neighbor!
Overnight guests shall not exceed the property’s posted occupancy. Only Registered Guests shall occupy the Rental Property.
All rental properties are designated for residential use consistent with the City of Tybee code. Prom groups, large groups, events, receptions or like-kind events are not allowed at STR properties.
Cars parked on premises shall not exceed published parking capacity of property.  Cars should display appropriate parking pass issued by the owner or manager and must be parked in the driveway or designated parking area of the rental property.  Parking in neighboring yards or driveways of rental property is prohibited. Vehicles may not be driven or parked where not allowed.
Posted street signage (speed limits, parking, etc.) will be obeyed.
Motor homes, campers, and tents are prohibited and may not be parked or hooked up at STR property.
Charcoal grilling on deck is prohibited; it is a fire hazard.
Only registered pets are allowed in designated rental properties. Leash laws must be obeyed, and no pets are allowed on the beach (City fines range upwards of $280 per incident).
Help keep Tybee clean! Garbage will be bagged securely and placed in the trash and recycling carts provided.  The City has contracted weekly “side door” trash pickup so do not roll trash or recycling carts to the curb, but please be sure to take your trash out to the cart the night before your property’s designated trash/recycling pick up day. 
Most STR properties do not allow indoor smoking (Please refer to your Rental Agreement).  No “butts on the beach” or anywhere else; cigarette butts shall be properly disposed of.

CITY OF TYBEE OFFICIAL BEACH RULES: 

No Smoking or Vaping on Beach or Beach Crossovers. 
No Pets on the Beach Except properly Certified Service Animals (ADA). (Emotional support pets are not allowed).
No Glass or Breakable Containers
No Motorized Vehicles on Beach
No Littering (this includes cigarette butts!)
No Fires or Grilling
No Disorderly Conduct
No Nudity
No Disturbing Dune Vegetation or Walking in the Dunes
Swim Within 50 Yards of Shoreline
Obey Lifeguards
No Motorized Watercraft within 1000 Feet of Water Line
No beer kegs

 

This agreement emphasizes the importance of responsible tenancy, respect for the property and neighbors, and the legal liabilities of both the guest and the rental company.

Tybee Cottages accepts no liability for your safety during your vacation. Children must be supervised at all times in and outside the vacation property. We assume no responsibility for accidents. You are reminded to exercise care for your and your companions' safety. Whenever possible, valuables should be left secure and out of sight.

CREDIT CARD AUTHORIZATION: I understand and consent to the use of the credit card provided without the original signature on the charge slip, that an email of this agreement will serve as an original, and that this Credit Card Authorization cannot be revoked and will not terminate until 90 days after the rental is vacated. Additional charges may include unauthorized long-distance telephone and satellite TV charges, excessive cleaning fees, damages beyond normal wear and tear, and keys not returned. All charges not covered under the Damage Protection Insurance may be included.

AGENCY DISCLOSURE: Tybee Cottages serves as the agent & representative of all owners of vacation properties in its rental program and is acting at all times in and for the owners' best interest